Stenografii

Stenografii, or stenography, is a method of rapid writing that uses abbreviated symbols or a specialized keyboard to represent spoken language more quickly than ordinary writing. It is used to transcribe speech in real time and to produce readable text from spoken language.

Stenography developed from shorthand systems created in the 16th–19th centuries, notably the phonetic systems of Pitman (1837) and Gregg (1888). These manual methods record language through symbols that stand for sounds or words rather than letters. In the 20th century a machine-based form, the stenotype, transformed transcription by using a compact keyboard with chorded inputs that encode phonemes.

Stenotype machines, introduced in the early 1900s (popularized by Ward Stone Ireland's development in 1913), are used with computer software to translate stenographic input into plain text. A stenographer can reach speeds well over 180–200 words per minute, and frequently 250–300 words per minute or more with high accuracy. Modern practice combines the machine with realtime transcription software, enabling live captions and searchable transcripts.

Uses include court reporting, official hearings, legislative proceedings, and real-time media captioning (CART). Stenography remains preferred where high-speed, high-accuracy transcription is essential, though voice-recognition technologies have advanced in parallel and often complement but rarely replace expert stenographers in critical settings.

Training and certification programs exist worldwide, with professional associations and standards that vary by country. Skills include keyboard technique, phonetic knowledge, grammar, and legal or medical terminology, depending on the field.