About this Video

• Video Title: Theory Lesson 1 - Class
• Channel: Platinum Steno
• Speakers: (Speaker name not provided in transcript)
• Duration: 00:48:30

Introduction

This video is the first lesson in a court reporting theory class. It focuses on teaching students the basics of using a stenotype machine, including finger placement, hand positioning, keyboard layout, and the creation of basic shorthand abbreviations (briefs). The instructor emphasizes the importance of muscle memory and consistent practice.

Key Takeaways

1. Home Position and Finger Placement: Proper hand placement ("home position") on the stenotype machine is crucial. The instructor details the placement of each finger on specific keys on both the initial and final sides of the keyboard.
2. Initial and Final Sides: The keyboard is divided into initial and final sides, with certain keys appearing on both. Hyphens in the lesson materials indicate whether a letter refers to the initial or final side.
3. Keystrokes and Muscle Memory: The instructor explains that multiple keys can be struck simultaneously, forming shorthand for words and phrases. Mastering this requires consistent practice to build muscle memory.
4. Briefs and Punctuation: The lesson introduces the concept of "briefs" (abbreviations) and teaches the stenotype representations of the period (final FPLT) and comma (final RBGS).
5. Practice Techniques: The instructor stresses consistent practice, starting slowly and focusing on accuracy over speed. The importance of reviewing notes to identify errors and improve reading skills is also highlighted.

1. The instructor discourages memorizing the keyboard like flashcards. Instead, she recommends memorizing it through hand practice, repeatedly striking each key to build muscle memory and familiarity with the feel and location of each key.

2. The period is represented by striking the keys FPLT simultaneously on the final side of the keyboard. The comma is represented by striking the keys RBGS simultaneously on the final side.

3. The four briefs introduced are:

   • He: Represented by the key 'E' (initial side).
   • It: Represented by the key 'T' (initial side).
   • You: Represented by the key 'U' (initial side).
   • The: Represented by the key 'T' (final side).