Stenography, machine shorthand, is not very hard to learn. ... However, it is incredibly difficult to do it fast, especially once we're talking above 200 words per minute type of fast.

How long does it take to learn stenography?

To write text for personal use, such as writing emails and instant messages, you could learn basic steno at ~40WPM within 3–6 months. To productively use steno to write most text at under 100WPM, it might take 6–18 months. For live dictation at 200WPM, it might take you 2 or more years.

How difficult is stenography?

The Staff Selection Commission organises the Stenographer exam every year for different posts like Grade C, Grade B (Non-Gazetted) and Grade D. The exam was taken by thousands of candidates. As per the feedback received from the candidates, the exam seemed to be moderate to difficult.