How do I get started in court reporting for a career?
Look into approved court reporting schools sanctioned by the National Court Reporters Association-they’re on their website; also your state may have a court reporter’s website. If/when you’ve made your choice of school, check if they have an Open House, or make an appointment to stop by to discuss the course and maybe observe a class in session. The most important thing when learning court reporting is Theory. The stenotype machine keys are blank. You must memorize and concentrate completely where the letters/numbers are-and their combinations. From the first session of your class, you must practice your finger drills. While in class, you must fully concentrate on dictation, where your fingers are on the keyboard and block out any and all other noises, i.e. doors slamming, outside traffic, someone sneezes/coughs, someone gets up and walks out, etc. That’ll prep you for the ‘outside world.’ Usually most students start by using manual machines that the school may rent, or sell even used
