Journalism shorthand?

Question

I'm a journalist but I have a little trouble when recording a speech or interviewing someone. Can anyone please help me find a site where I can get some shorthand ideas.

Answer 1

There are two main formal modes of shorthand (others exist, but have not been used recently). The Gregg System was very, very popular-Secretaries were required to know it. It had designated shapes which stood for sound groups and was for all practical purposes like another language. I have no type styles to show it to you.

Another was called speedwriting which involved removing letters from words in a way that you could still understand what the word was, much like texting is done today. i.e. u for you, cnt for can not etc.

Answer 2

I had known very few reporters who use traditional shorthand like Gregg. Most develop their own system. This will take time but usually works the best. a small tape recorder is used in some instances, I wouldn't know Gregg or Speed Writing if they slapped me in the face.

Answer 3

I use a tape recorder whenever possible. I always get the words correctly.

Otherwise, I try to type when doing an interview. Obviously this works best on the phone. I can type faster than I write.

I do the best I can when taking notes in long-hand -- abbreviate when possible, shorten words -- but it's tough to do.

Answer 4

Zinman Rapid Writing method in paperback.