Machine Shorthand Reporters

Machine Shorthand Reporters record and reproduce the spoken word in court and parliamentary proceedings, television programming, and for the deaf and hearing impaired, using handwritten shorthand, stenotype shorthand machines, computer-assisted transcription software, and sound recording equipment.

What the job involves

• Takes verbatim records of proceedings in rapid shorthand using computerised equipment and shorthand-writing machines

• Transcribes information recorded in shorthand and on sound recording equipment, and proofreads and corrects copy

• Reads portions of transcripts during trials and other proceedings on request of judges and other officials

• Reproduces the spoken word, environmental sounds and song lyrics as captions for television programs, and the deaf or hearing impaired