In the time it takes us to type three individual letters, a stenographer can type an entire word with the help of a stenotype machine. Because of this condensed form of typing, a stenotype keyboard has only 22 keys. This is opposed to normal computer keyboards, which have between 70 and 105 keys.

What do stenographers talk into?

A stenomask is a hand-held microphone built into a padded, sound-proof enclosure that fits over the speaker's mouth or nose and mouth. Some lightweight versions may be fitted with an elastic neck strap to hold them in place while freeing the user's hands for other tasks.

What is the average words per minute WPM of a fast stenographer?

This shortened style of writing and unique keyboard layout allow stenographers – or court reporters, as they are most commonly referred to – to type on average more than 200 words per minute. Some court reporters can type over 250 words per minute with very high rates of accuracy.