Monette's Musings is a blog containing information for busy professionals, students and individuals who are fearless and seek to create their success each day.
"Still Processing And Snowglobes"
By Monette Benoit
Copyright 2006 by Monette Benoit, All Rights Reserved.
“You’re processing; you’re not stuck,” began my correspondence with Janet Tilly, a student who contacted me. She had written, “I am currently stuck trying to attain 170 words per minute.”
My April 2005 ‘Beyond The Comfort Zone’ article and Monette's Musings Blog detailed how one sentence I shared shifted had changed Janet’s processing. Less than one year later (after being 'stuck'), Janet entered our profession with determination, processing and captioning, court reporting CATapult CD material.
Janet recently emailed, “Still processing! I completed school. I discovered I have something new to process. After reading your words about processing, I never looked at school the same way. You took the time to go beyond my questions about your CATapult BEEDs CD product. You took the time to address the root of my problem, which turned out to be a problem of perception and mindset.”
Janet shares: “I thought most of the ‘processing’ would be in court reporting school. I knew transitioning from school to work would be taxing, but I didn't realize I would process now more than ever.
“My second deposition reflected my processing had just begun. I can't express how grateful I am that you, Monette, pointed out the mentality of processing. I don't think I could get up every morning, facing unknowns without having it all in perspective. Life is one big learning experience; court reporting is part of my life, so I shouldn't expect this to be different than other things I learn each day.
“To all students: Finishing school is not the end of learning, it’s the beginning. Prepare on the front end; don't be surprised by opportunities to process once you graduate! Like Monette's sister-in-law Wenny wrote, whenever we are down, we have to get up, ‘try harder; each time you try harder.’ Your sister-in-law Wenny blessed me with a mantra from the January 2005 ‘Beyond The Comfort Zone’ article, "Try Harder; Each Time ‘You’ Try Harder!" (This article about Wenny, January 2005, and Janet’s April 2005 article may be accessed on http://www.crrbooks.com/, http://www.catapultdix.com/ and blog Monette's Musings)
“I‘m now out of school; sometimes it feels like I’m in a snowglobe that keeps getting shaken. Working was exciting, but scary. I had interned as often as I could. The reporters I interned with were fantastic. Reporters answered any questions, pointing out things I didn't know to ask about. And I was nervous! I can't remember praying as hard as I prayed before my first deposition. (My prayers were answered when I held it together during readback.) After, I was walking on clouds; you would have thought I had orchestrated world peace.
“The next day, I was confident, still walking on clouds. This is the first time my snowglobe was shaken. The doctor specialized in otolaryngology; I know this because everyone said it as often as possible. He detailed thyroidectomy, parathyroid, cricothyroid fascia, isthmus and thyroplasty. My saving grace: The witness spoke slowly, enunciating well; attorneys took notes, pausing between answers and questions. This wasn't the scary part -- that happened when the deposition ended.
“I was realtiming for myself, recording audio on my laptop. The firm owner proofs my work. Because I am new and paranoid, I also had a digital recorder. Into the deposition, I realized I had not turned on the laptop audio. At first pause, I turned it on. I started obsessing: “Did I drop?” I knew the recorder was on, but couldn't stop the mental process. Then someone mentioned otolaryngology snapping me back into the moment. I stopped the panic, sure I’d written well, worked to continue doing so.
“Long story short, there were several minutes when the attorneys stopped the depo, then needed to go back on the record where I had no audio. No audiosync, plus no digital recording! I pressed the wrong button on the digital recorder, twice! “Once I saw the recorder had not recorded, I thought about the depo, still confident I’d written well, verbatim. Days later, I started worrying.
“Editing, I remembered, while packing at the end, the attorneys were talking to one another; I overhead their conversations. Editing, I remembered things I knew were said, but were not in my transcript. Since I was new, I started obsessing. What if statements I were remembered were ‘on the record’ and not conversations? I couldn't have dropped all that. No way. Wait a minute; what about in school when I knew I’d passed that test, but didn't? Here I knew I’d written well on the job.
“This argument went through my head all night; the next morning I was throwing up. I was sure I’d never report again. Mentally, I turned an ant hill into Mount Everest. I don't have words to describe how far out of proportion this had been blown. I called the firm owner. She calmed me saying this was going to be okay. She said she’d help me; we would look at the transcript, see what we thought. After talking with her, I began to think rationally.
“Thinking clearly, instead of worse-case-scenario, I realized I was borrowing trouble. I had concentrated so hard on writing, my head hurt, I ached all over. I had felt good until I let my imagination run away with me. I printed the transcript; it was good. Well, it was good after it had been proofed by someone else and corrections were made. Who knew commas would challenge me at age 36?
“This story can be picked apart backwards, forwards. You bet I haven't made those mistakes again; there have been others, but not those. This is somewhat embarrassing, but maybe someone will benefit from it. I have more days where I left jobs walking on clouds than I have feeling like I was in the snowglobe. I’ve made mistakes; I’ve beat myself up over them, but when finished, I filed them, taking what I learned, leaving negativity behind. And the next day, I processed, tried harder.
“I’ve been so lucky; my instructors, fellow students were the best. I interned with experienced reporters who, I’m sure, had better things to do than answer my questions.
“To the people who shared in forums and have written JCR (NCRA Journal of Court Reporting) articles, thank you! Several times I encountered situations and knew what to do because I’d read about it. I wish I could thank everyone who helped me. The only things I know to do to begin thanking them are to continue improving and to one day help new reporters. Bless you all!”
Monette: Spoken like a veteran, Janet. We are never stuck unless we choose to be.
We process, building experiences and wisdom from within, sometimes alone, sometimes with others. Yet when we process, “trying harder each time,” perhaps our snowglobe is not blurry. Perhaps it is a remarkable globe we may view with sparkle and wonder.
The snowglobe on my desk, gifted by a student, now court reporter, is a ballerina atop pink heart-shaped flakes, arms folded in prayer. Large print reads: “Lord, Keep Me On My Toes.” Still processing, Janet, you have helped thousands, seated and on your toes.
Monette Benoit may be reached at: Tutoring@CRRbooks.com
About the Author:
Monette Benoit, B.B.A., CCR, CRI, CPE, is a JCR Contributing Editor for the National Court Reporters Association, NCRA.
She is the author of multiple books to include the NCRA Written Knowledge Test and state RPR, RMR, RDR, CSR ‘Written Knowledge Exam’ Textbook, Workbook, a companion Study Guide, ‘The CRRT WKT’ CD Software Program, 'The Advanced SAT, LSAT, GRE, Real-Time Vocabulary Workbook' and the ‘CATapult’ Dictionary CD Software Program series.
Books, CDs, private tutoring, mentoring services and articles may be referenced http://www.crrbooks.com/.
Monette is an experienced consultant, instructor, realtime court reporter, tutor, CART provider, columnist.
She teaches, tutors and coaches home-study students, college students, court reporters and professionals.Monette speaks to groups at state, national and international conventions about motivation, technology, expanding skills and Deaf, Oral Deaf, Hard of Hearing.
Monette Benoit, B.B.A., Certified Court Reporter, Certified Reporting Instructor, Certified Program Evaluator, Paralegal, may be reached at: http://www.crrbooks.com/ http://www.catapultdix.com/ and http://www.artcs.com/
Saturday, September 29, 2007
Sunday, September 23, 2007
“You’re Processing; You’re Not Stuck”
Monette's Musings is a blog containing information for busy professionals, students and individuals who are fearless and seek to create their success each day.
“You’re Processing; You’re Not Stuck”
By Monette Benoit
Copyright by Monette Benoit, All Rights Reserved.
The first email to Monette@CATapultdix.com began as an information-specific request.
I replied to Janet Tilley and offered ‘up’ a firm opinion, which I have ‘owned’ for many years. Her response was so sincere, I asked Janet to permit me to share with you. In my heart, I know students, court reporters, captioners, CART providers and instructors will find what they ‘need to know’ below.
Janet: “I am currently a court reporting student. I am stuck at 170 wpm and am looking for something to help me identify ‘hesitations’. I am enrolled in Chattanooga State's Realtime Program and starting my fifth semester. I am currently stuck trying to attain 170 wpm.
"Would your products be of assistance to a student? I ordered the ‘CATapult Your Dictionary’ BEEDs CD Software Program today, and I am looking forward to using it! A reporter returned from the NCRA National Convention this summer and told me about your products. She was very excited about using them and thought the BEEDs CD would be helpful for me.”
I read her email and replied, … As a court reporter, private tutor/coach and instructor, may I suggest you avoid the "I’m stuck" thinking. I teach and share when I speak to individuals and to groups that ‘the brain needs to absorb’ what we have 'in-put' (a new steno language) ‘as’ we develop skills to work ‘a’ new machine.
"In short, the two new tasks need time to work together, to flow, together, as one. I compare it to: 'Your mind is like a sponge,' Teaching 101. You will absorb the tasks needed, as you ‘process.’
"If you’re stuck, ‘stuck’ delays the ‘process,’ in my opinion. When you are processing, time is refocused."
Janet replied: “Hallelujah and Praise the Lord! That is probably the single most encouraging, sensible piece of advice I have gotten since starting court reporting school. I have always felt my brain and fingers were trying to learn to work together in a totally new way that involved learning a new language, new computer system, keyboard, and putting the two together in a nanosecond! Logically, this would take the brain and motor impulses time to learn and coordinate.
I have heard the ‘stuck’ warnings and stories, and I bought into them. Viewing myself as ‘stuck’ rendered me aimless and helpless, in a mental sense.
‘Processing,’ on the other hand, is a productive place to be. And the truth is, no matter how few speeds gains I have made over the last three months, I have improved in many areas, and my theory has become easier for me. I also seem to have a better understanding of the whole ‘realtime picture’. Thank you for your time and advice. I feel so fortunate to be entering a career so full of caring and helpful people.
Also, I just realized you wrote the wonderful article, ‘Try Harder; Each Time You Try Harder’ in the NCRA January JCR. Your sister-in-law, Wenny, (Tong Sing Jewelry) is an inspiration! I don't know how she does it every day with a smile, but God bless her!
After I read the article, I thought about trying harder and not being content to plateau. It made me realize how easy it would be to finish school, get comfortable with a system and just stay there.
I realized that to continually try harder and to become better, I need to be on top of industry and technological changes. I need to be willing to continue to learn and change with the industry and customer demands. It makes me feel good to think that even after I am out of school, I will still learn. And process!
I received my BEEDs CD. It looks great!!! I think this is going to be exactly the practice aid I have been dreaming of! I love the common words drill! I look forward to getting into the ‘meat and potatoes’ of BEEDs today. Once again, thank you so much for your advice and encouragement! You are an angel!”
I asked Janet to share her world. “Let's see, I am 35 years old, and I began my first Realtime Theory semester, August 2003. I attended college when I was younger. I became interested in court reporting in 1994. I fell into a job that I loved, but it offered no opportunity for promotion or change. I became burned out and bored after a few years. During this time I had gotten married.
My husband worked with two men, each married to a reporter. He would tell me about what the wives of these men were doing. So that got me thinking, and before long, we developed a plan that allowed me to quit my job and go to school. It was hard to leave my job. The people were like family, money and benefits were good; but I did it and haven't looked back! What initially interested me in court reporting was the writer; how could anyone make words by those blank, black keys??? I love to read; I love words. I love hard crosswords, word games. When I learned more about the writer and theory itself, I thought, ‘This is the ultimate puzzle!’ As I learned about the career, the more intrigued I became.
I wanted a job that would allow me to work in different settings, with different people and would always challenge me. This was it!
What really sealed it for me though, was that I could provide other services with court reporting skills. I had been at a job that required a definite set of skills; I couldn't take those skills and move into another area. With court reporting, I had the option of providing CART or captioning, should I need a change. I have long said that I would love to be a professional student and providing CART would kind of be like that, plus a paycheck! I plan to freelance when I finish school. I would like to get into CART, but that would be on down the road. I like the flexibility of freelancing and varied work settings. I also believe freelancing will offer me the greatest opportunities and challenges to become the best ‘realtimer’ I can be.
I had the privilege of working at a court reporting firm here in Chattanooga, Angel & Associates Court Reporters, the first year I was in court reporting school. I viewed the ‘other side’ of the career. That experience was invaluable! I learned about the daily requirements and job demands, the good and the not so good. I am very grateful for my time there; it has made me even more determined and more resolved to stick to my practice schedule and to keep pressing forward.
My husband is the most supportive, encouraging man in the world. I could never have done this without his help. He has assumed household responsibilities; he’s very understanding during my times of frustration. We have no children, so that does make it a lot easier. However, we have a parrot, the center of the household and our lives, two finches who disregard us until feeding time, and a cat who stays outside during the waking hours of our birds, but comes in at night to sleep on her personal heated mattress (me). I hope this is helpful! Thanks, Monette!”
Yes, Janet, “this is helpful.” You have just ‘helped’ many, many court reporters, students and instructors. You have ‘gifted’ your processing and your world into the universe; I thank you.
An update of Janet's 'processing' and graduation into the court reporting profession - under 12 months from this 'processing and sharing' - may be read in "Still Processing And Snowglobes."
Monette Benoit may be reached at: Tutoring@CRRbooks.com
About the Author:
Monette Benoit, B.B.A., CCR, CRI, CPE, is a JCR Contributing Editor for the National Court Reporters Association, NCRA.
She is the author of multiple books to include the NCRA Written Knowledge Test and state RPR, RMR, RDR, CSR ‘Written Knowledge Exam’ Textbook, Workbook, a companion Study Guide, ‘The CRRT WKT’ CD Software Program, 'The Advanced SAT, LSAT, GRE, Real-Time Vocabulary Workbook' and the ‘CATapult’ Dictionary CD Software Program series.
Books, CDs, private tutoring, mentoring services and articles may be referenced http://www.crrbooks.com/.
Monette is an experienced consultant, instructor, realtime court reporter, tutor, CART provider, columnist.
She teaches, tutors and coaches home-study students, college students, court reporters and professionals.
Monette speaks to groups at state, national and international conventions about motivation, technology, expanding skills and Deaf, Oral Deaf, Hard of Hearing.
Monette Benoit, B.B.A., Certified Court Reporter, Certified Reporting Instructor, Certified Program Evaluator, Paralegal, may be reached at: http://www.crrbooks.com/ http://www.catapultdix.com/ and http://www.artcs.com/
“You’re Processing; You’re Not Stuck”
By Monette Benoit
Copyright by Monette Benoit, All Rights Reserved.
The first email to Monette@CATapultdix.com began as an information-specific request.
I replied to Janet Tilley and offered ‘up’ a firm opinion, which I have ‘owned’ for many years. Her response was so sincere, I asked Janet to permit me to share with you. In my heart, I know students, court reporters, captioners, CART providers and instructors will find what they ‘need to know’ below.
Janet: “I am currently a court reporting student. I am stuck at 170 wpm and am looking for something to help me identify ‘hesitations’. I am enrolled in Chattanooga State's Realtime Program and starting my fifth semester. I am currently stuck trying to attain 170 wpm.
"Would your products be of assistance to a student? I ordered the ‘CATapult Your Dictionary’ BEEDs CD Software Program today, and I am looking forward to using it! A reporter returned from the NCRA National Convention this summer and told me about your products. She was very excited about using them and thought the BEEDs CD would be helpful for me.”
I read her email and replied, … As a court reporter, private tutor/coach and instructor, may I suggest you avoid the "I’m stuck" thinking. I teach and share when I speak to individuals and to groups that ‘the brain needs to absorb’ what we have 'in-put' (a new steno language) ‘as’ we develop skills to work ‘a’ new machine.
"In short, the two new tasks need time to work together, to flow, together, as one. I compare it to: 'Your mind is like a sponge,' Teaching 101. You will absorb the tasks needed, as you ‘process.’
"If you’re stuck, ‘stuck’ delays the ‘process,’ in my opinion. When you are processing, time is refocused."
Janet replied: “Hallelujah and Praise the Lord! That is probably the single most encouraging, sensible piece of advice I have gotten since starting court reporting school. I have always felt my brain and fingers were trying to learn to work together in a totally new way that involved learning a new language, new computer system, keyboard, and putting the two together in a nanosecond! Logically, this would take the brain and motor impulses time to learn and coordinate.
I have heard the ‘stuck’ warnings and stories, and I bought into them. Viewing myself as ‘stuck’ rendered me aimless and helpless, in a mental sense.
‘Processing,’ on the other hand, is a productive place to be. And the truth is, no matter how few speeds gains I have made over the last three months, I have improved in many areas, and my theory has become easier for me. I also seem to have a better understanding of the whole ‘realtime picture’. Thank you for your time and advice. I feel so fortunate to be entering a career so full of caring and helpful people.
Also, I just realized you wrote the wonderful article, ‘Try Harder; Each Time You Try Harder’ in the NCRA January JCR. Your sister-in-law, Wenny, (Tong Sing Jewelry) is an inspiration! I don't know how she does it every day with a smile, but God bless her!
After I read the article, I thought about trying harder and not being content to plateau. It made me realize how easy it would be to finish school, get comfortable with a system and just stay there.
I realized that to continually try harder and to become better, I need to be on top of industry and technological changes. I need to be willing to continue to learn and change with the industry and customer demands. It makes me feel good to think that even after I am out of school, I will still learn. And process!
I received my BEEDs CD. It looks great!!! I think this is going to be exactly the practice aid I have been dreaming of! I love the common words drill! I look forward to getting into the ‘meat and potatoes’ of BEEDs today. Once again, thank you so much for your advice and encouragement! You are an angel!”
I asked Janet to share her world. “Let's see, I am 35 years old, and I began my first Realtime Theory semester, August 2003. I attended college when I was younger. I became interested in court reporting in 1994. I fell into a job that I loved, but it offered no opportunity for promotion or change. I became burned out and bored after a few years. During this time I had gotten married.
My husband worked with two men, each married to a reporter. He would tell me about what the wives of these men were doing. So that got me thinking, and before long, we developed a plan that allowed me to quit my job and go to school. It was hard to leave my job. The people were like family, money and benefits were good; but I did it and haven't looked back! What initially interested me in court reporting was the writer; how could anyone make words by those blank, black keys??? I love to read; I love words. I love hard crosswords, word games. When I learned more about the writer and theory itself, I thought, ‘This is the ultimate puzzle!’ As I learned about the career, the more intrigued I became.
I wanted a job that would allow me to work in different settings, with different people and would always challenge me. This was it!
What really sealed it for me though, was that I could provide other services with court reporting skills. I had been at a job that required a definite set of skills; I couldn't take those skills and move into another area. With court reporting, I had the option of providing CART or captioning, should I need a change. I have long said that I would love to be a professional student and providing CART would kind of be like that, plus a paycheck! I plan to freelance when I finish school. I would like to get into CART, but that would be on down the road. I like the flexibility of freelancing and varied work settings. I also believe freelancing will offer me the greatest opportunities and challenges to become the best ‘realtimer’ I can be.
I had the privilege of working at a court reporting firm here in Chattanooga, Angel & Associates Court Reporters, the first year I was in court reporting school. I viewed the ‘other side’ of the career. That experience was invaluable! I learned about the daily requirements and job demands, the good and the not so good. I am very grateful for my time there; it has made me even more determined and more resolved to stick to my practice schedule and to keep pressing forward.
My husband is the most supportive, encouraging man in the world. I could never have done this without his help. He has assumed household responsibilities; he’s very understanding during my times of frustration. We have no children, so that does make it a lot easier. However, we have a parrot, the center of the household and our lives, two finches who disregard us until feeding time, and a cat who stays outside during the waking hours of our birds, but comes in at night to sleep on her personal heated mattress (me). I hope this is helpful! Thanks, Monette!”
Yes, Janet, “this is helpful.” You have just ‘helped’ many, many court reporters, students and instructors. You have ‘gifted’ your processing and your world into the universe; I thank you.
An update of Janet's 'processing' and graduation into the court reporting profession - under 12 months from this 'processing and sharing' - may be read in "Still Processing And Snowglobes."
Monette Benoit may be reached at: Tutoring@CRRbooks.com
About the Author:
Monette Benoit, B.B.A., CCR, CRI, CPE, is a JCR Contributing Editor for the National Court Reporters Association, NCRA.
She is the author of multiple books to include the NCRA Written Knowledge Test and state RPR, RMR, RDR, CSR ‘Written Knowledge Exam’ Textbook, Workbook, a companion Study Guide, ‘The CRRT WKT’ CD Software Program, 'The Advanced SAT, LSAT, GRE, Real-Time Vocabulary Workbook' and the ‘CATapult’ Dictionary CD Software Program series.
Books, CDs, private tutoring, mentoring services and articles may be referenced http://www.crrbooks.com/.
Monette is an experienced consultant, instructor, realtime court reporter, tutor, CART provider, columnist.
She teaches, tutors and coaches home-study students, college students, court reporters and professionals.
Monette speaks to groups at state, national and international conventions about motivation, technology, expanding skills and Deaf, Oral Deaf, Hard of Hearing.
Monette Benoit, B.B.A., Certified Court Reporter, Certified Reporting Instructor, Certified Program Evaluator, Paralegal, may be reached at: http://www.crrbooks.com/ http://www.catapultdix.com/ and http://www.artcs.com/
Saturday, September 8, 2007
Certify This ...
Monette's Musings is a blog containing information for busy professionals, students and individuals who are fearless and seek to create their success each day.
Certify This ...
By Monette Benoit
Copyright by Monette Benoit, All Rights Reserved.
If you registered for a NCRA, National Court Reporters Association, or a state court reporting examination take a deep breath and think big.
Write your name with your initials of the certification on a piece of paper. Make two copies. Post one on your bathroom mirror; this will be the first and last thing you see each day.
Put the piece of paper with your certification on your fridge. I want you to prepare a blueprint in success to prioritize this event. Prepare as an athlete.
Proper nutrition enables individuals to persevere. And competing is what you're doing. (You're competing with skills that enabled you to join the professionals in our occupation.) People who do not eat properly, work long hours, and worry about money become overwhelmed.
When I speak to groups, tutor, coach students and court reporters, I share the mind/body approach. Many do not understand why they need to eat breakfast. Eat breakfast. Physical exercise is important; nutritional preparation is essential.
Proteins and carbohydrates sustain elevated blood sugar levels during work, tests and stressful situations. Bananas, peanuts and dried fruit are healthy, enabling a person to focus and improve concentration. Pack a small bag with non-salted pretzels, carbohydrates; include non-salted peanuts for protein. Snacking on this combo improves your attention to detail and your stamina. I have snacks in my desk, briefcase, car, CART realtime case and usually in my hand as I race through life.
Two nights before your test, eat a protein dinner to build energy. I recommend fish with vegetables. The evening prior to the examination, dine on complex carbohydrates. Carbs remain in the blood longer, building stamina. Athletes eat whole wheat spaghetti the night before competition. They understand the importance of nutrition. (I eat yams.)
Vitamins are important. Include amino acids, Vitamin C, E and B complexes. Sublingual B-12 can be placed under your tongue before any test. Hatha Yoga improves concentration, building strong back and arm muscles; great for people hunched most of their day. Learn exercises which permit you to quickly send fresh blood into your spine and brain. And this ‘fresh blood’ calms nervous energy.
Court reporters understand that there are two parts to many national and state certification tests - a written and a skills portion. Court Reporter Reference Books & CDs has a textbook, a workbook and a study guide -- plus a ‘CRRT’ CD Software Program, Court Reporter Reference Tutorial, to assist you to prepare for the written portion of your court reporting certification examinations.
The books and CD will teach you how to take a test. You will learn about the 'd/a' - distracting answer. Currently, there is only one textbook and one CD on the market to assist individuals to pass state and national NCRA RPR, RMR, RDR and state CSR, CCR written tests.
The 'CRRT' CD, Court Reporter Reference Tutorial, combines three books and has mock tests preparing individuals to study in realtime. The ‘CRRT’ also assists NCRA CBC, CCP preparation as does the ‘CATapult’ CD Series, which will hone your writing skills to assist you to pass your goal toward certification.
The link for the 'CRRT CD' is http://crrbooks.com/index.php?cPath=52
The link for the test prep books is http://crrbooks.com/index.php?cPath=26
Individuals using CRR Books & CDs material have a 95% successful pass rate on national and certification written exams passing the WKT, written certification test, the first time. If you are studying alone for the test or working to improve your skills, www.CRRbooks.com would be honored to assist you with the written portion of your state and national certification.
The second portion of the test concerns speed and accuracy.
Reporters and students building speed want material to be faster, faster, faster. But accuracy is built on the ability to write with control.
The push for higher speeds, in my opinion, should be in short spurts, not long practice periods. Start with material that's comfortable. Build your speed while reading back and writing slower speeds for control. Your goal is to write comfortably 10-wpm, words per minute, to 20-wpm above the test speeds.
All reporters experience reading bad notes. When you're struggling, I highly recommend reading those notes. Fingers have patterns. Many students and reporters have a finger that drags or slips. Study finger patterns. Adjust your steno machine on that specific key for a lighter or heavier touch.
Analyze your bad notes, enjoy your good notes, but focus on finger patterns. Many students and reporters do not want to type tests. You learn more from bad notes than good notes. With a positive attitude and focus, you will learn something you did not know about your fingers, your dictionary and your work. You've taken the time to prepare; you shouldn't walk from any test.
NCRA national speed contenders do not write perfect notes. They compile and complete exceptional tests; a skill perfected over years.
Listen to tapes 20-wpm higher than scheduled speeds while you drive to work or school. (One of my students listened to a tape 40-wpm higher than her speed; she "got" lost on the way to school -- Honest.) Increase your ability to listen, "carrying information." When you carry for spurts, you'll gain confidence.
I believe listening is more essential than writing, especially for tests where we have to "recall" verbatim material.
When practicing, remember numbers are important. Witnesses state his/her address, zip code, phone numbers (cell, home, office), social security numbers. Numbers often are included in tests.
Should you use briefs or should you learn to write every word, sound by sound? Use what works best for you. NCRA has a great book, "61+Ways to Write Faster, Speedbuilding Tips.”
After someone types, I study their notes. They always have words they wrote during dictation that they did not type accurately. Enhance your transcription skills; your test scores will improve.
Here’s my suggestions:
First, type from steno notes. Leave blanks on the computer screen or typing paper for "problem" areas. Valuable time is lost staring at a word or a flap. Often the word is repeated or reworded within the dictation.
Second, mark each flap or computer screen with an ‘x’ or pen as you transcribe to ensure you didn't fold skip words or fold two flaps. (It's happened in national speed championships.)
Third, check your typed notes for accuracy and punctuation.
Fourth, check steno notes to the typed material to find missed words. Too many people incur errors when they "had it" in their notes.
Fifth, go back and proof each page, each sentence, in a right to left pattern. This is where you proof each word for spelling. After you have completed steps one through five, then go back and stare at the problem spots and look for each ‘x’ on the computer screen to see each word was transcribed from steno.
Let's address the nerve factor.
My opinion is that candidates who "initially mess up," experience lack of confidence in their ability for write that particular speed. Those who "struggle" in the middle of a test or a take may suffer from lack of self-confidence and/or lack of ability for write that speed. Problems towards the end of dictation indicate that the person does not have stamina at that speed. Study your notes. Discover where you're struggling; then build that area.
Gelsenium, homeopathy, and Rescue Remedy (Bach Flower Remedy) assists people with anxiety associated with public speaking and performance, test-taking, situations. Health food stores carry these items. They work wonders calming butterflies.
I recommend practicing 20 minutes. Readback, get up, stretch, sit down and get back to work. Maintain a schedule. Chart your progress.
Having problems with specific prefixes, suffixes? How about finger combinations? Finger drills are great. Robert McCormick, MBA, CRI, NCRA’s 2004 Teacher of The Year, created a CD, 'CATapult BEEDs' Software Program to specifically address issues individuals face when practicing for certification exams.
This 'BEEDs CD' will change the way you practice and advance in your schooling and career. BEEDs has finger exercises, numbers, essential words, names, and multiple free features to assist you to pass your certification skills portion of each examination.
The link for the 'BEEDs CD' is http://crrbooks.com/index.php?cPath=35
Results and testimonials from individuals may viewed at http://crrbooks.com/index.php?cPath=28
Practice when you're most alert. Write during your anticipated test time to peak your mental and physical skills.
Act on your goals; know that you deserve to pass the test. After you've studied and honed your skills, relax and go play.
Train as an athlete. Concentrate on nutrition; focus on skills preparations. And when you surrender your state or national test, you should be able to say, "Here, certify this."
Monette Benoit may be reached at: Tutoring@CRRbooks.com
About the Author:
Monette Benoit, B.B.A., CCR, CRI, CPE, is a JCR Contributing Editor for the National Court Reporters Association, NCRA. She is the author of multiple books to include the national and state RPR, RMR, RDR, CSR ‘Written Knowledge Exam’ Textbook, Workbook, a companion Study Guide, ‘The CRRT WKT’ CD Software Program, Advanced SAT, LSAT, GRE, Real-Time Vocabulary Workbook and‘CATapult’ Dictionary CD Software Program series.
Books, CDs, private tutoring, mentoring services and articles may be referenced http://www.crrbooks.com/.
Monette is an experienced consultant, instructor, realtime court reporter, tutor, life coach, CART provider, columnist.
She teaches, tutors and coaches home-study students, college students, court reporters and professionals. Monette speaks to groups at state, national and international conventions about motivation, technology, expanding skills and Deaf, Oral Deaf, Hard of Hearing.
Monette Benoit may be reached: http://www.crrbooks.com/ http://www.catapultdix.com/ and http://www.artcs.com/
Certify This ...
By Monette Benoit
Copyright by Monette Benoit, All Rights Reserved.
If you registered for a NCRA, National Court Reporters Association, or a state court reporting examination take a deep breath and think big.
Write your name with your initials of the certification on a piece of paper. Make two copies. Post one on your bathroom mirror; this will be the first and last thing you see each day.
Put the piece of paper with your certification on your fridge. I want you to prepare a blueprint in success to prioritize this event. Prepare as an athlete.
Proper nutrition enables individuals to persevere. And competing is what you're doing. (You're competing with skills that enabled you to join the professionals in our occupation.) People who do not eat properly, work long hours, and worry about money become overwhelmed.
When I speak to groups, tutor, coach students and court reporters, I share the mind/body approach. Many do not understand why they need to eat breakfast. Eat breakfast. Physical exercise is important; nutritional preparation is essential.
Proteins and carbohydrates sustain elevated blood sugar levels during work, tests and stressful situations. Bananas, peanuts and dried fruit are healthy, enabling a person to focus and improve concentration. Pack a small bag with non-salted pretzels, carbohydrates; include non-salted peanuts for protein. Snacking on this combo improves your attention to detail and your stamina. I have snacks in my desk, briefcase, car, CART realtime case and usually in my hand as I race through life.
Two nights before your test, eat a protein dinner to build energy. I recommend fish with vegetables. The evening prior to the examination, dine on complex carbohydrates. Carbs remain in the blood longer, building stamina. Athletes eat whole wheat spaghetti the night before competition. They understand the importance of nutrition. (I eat yams.)
Vitamins are important. Include amino acids, Vitamin C, E and B complexes. Sublingual B-12 can be placed under your tongue before any test. Hatha Yoga improves concentration, building strong back and arm muscles; great for people hunched most of their day. Learn exercises which permit you to quickly send fresh blood into your spine and brain. And this ‘fresh blood’ calms nervous energy.
Court reporters understand that there are two parts to many national and state certification tests - a written and a skills portion. Court Reporter Reference Books & CDs has a textbook, a workbook and a study guide -- plus a ‘CRRT’ CD Software Program, Court Reporter Reference Tutorial, to assist you to prepare for the written portion of your court reporting certification examinations.
The books and CD will teach you how to take a test. You will learn about the 'd/a' - distracting answer. Currently, there is only one textbook and one CD on the market to assist individuals to pass state and national NCRA RPR, RMR, RDR and state CSR, CCR written tests.
The 'CRRT' CD, Court Reporter Reference Tutorial, combines three books and has mock tests preparing individuals to study in realtime. The ‘CRRT’ also assists NCRA CBC, CCP preparation as does the ‘CATapult’ CD Series, which will hone your writing skills to assist you to pass your goal toward certification.
The link for the 'CRRT CD' is http://crrbooks.com/index.php?cPath=52
The link for the test prep books is http://crrbooks.com/index.php?cPath=26
Individuals using CRR Books & CDs material have a 95% successful pass rate on national and certification written exams passing the WKT, written certification test, the first time. If you are studying alone for the test or working to improve your skills, www.CRRbooks.com would be honored to assist you with the written portion of your state and national certification.
The second portion of the test concerns speed and accuracy.
Reporters and students building speed want material to be faster, faster, faster. But accuracy is built on the ability to write with control.
The push for higher speeds, in my opinion, should be in short spurts, not long practice periods. Start with material that's comfortable. Build your speed while reading back and writing slower speeds for control. Your goal is to write comfortably 10-wpm, words per minute, to 20-wpm above the test speeds.
All reporters experience reading bad notes. When you're struggling, I highly recommend reading those notes. Fingers have patterns. Many students and reporters have a finger that drags or slips. Study finger patterns. Adjust your steno machine on that specific key for a lighter or heavier touch.
Analyze your bad notes, enjoy your good notes, but focus on finger patterns. Many students and reporters do not want to type tests. You learn more from bad notes than good notes. With a positive attitude and focus, you will learn something you did not know about your fingers, your dictionary and your work. You've taken the time to prepare; you shouldn't walk from any test.
NCRA national speed contenders do not write perfect notes. They compile and complete exceptional tests; a skill perfected over years.
Listen to tapes 20-wpm higher than scheduled speeds while you drive to work or school. (One of my students listened to a tape 40-wpm higher than her speed; she "got" lost on the way to school -- Honest.) Increase your ability to listen, "carrying information." When you carry for spurts, you'll gain confidence.
I believe listening is more essential than writing, especially for tests where we have to "recall" verbatim material.
When practicing, remember numbers are important. Witnesses state his/her address, zip code, phone numbers (cell, home, office), social security numbers. Numbers often are included in tests.
Should you use briefs or should you learn to write every word, sound by sound? Use what works best for you. NCRA has a great book, "61+Ways to Write Faster, Speedbuilding Tips.”
After someone types, I study their notes. They always have words they wrote during dictation that they did not type accurately. Enhance your transcription skills; your test scores will improve.
Here’s my suggestions:
First, type from steno notes. Leave blanks on the computer screen or typing paper for "problem" areas. Valuable time is lost staring at a word or a flap. Often the word is repeated or reworded within the dictation.
Second, mark each flap or computer screen with an ‘x’ or pen as you transcribe to ensure you didn't fold skip words or fold two flaps. (It's happened in national speed championships.)
Third, check your typed notes for accuracy and punctuation.
Fourth, check steno notes to the typed material to find missed words. Too many people incur errors when they "had it" in their notes.
Fifth, go back and proof each page, each sentence, in a right to left pattern. This is where you proof each word for spelling. After you have completed steps one through five, then go back and stare at the problem spots and look for each ‘x’ on the computer screen to see each word was transcribed from steno.
Let's address the nerve factor.
My opinion is that candidates who "initially mess up," experience lack of confidence in their ability for write that particular speed. Those who "struggle" in the middle of a test or a take may suffer from lack of self-confidence and/or lack of ability for write that speed. Problems towards the end of dictation indicate that the person does not have stamina at that speed. Study your notes. Discover where you're struggling; then build that area.
Gelsenium, homeopathy, and Rescue Remedy (Bach Flower Remedy) assists people with anxiety associated with public speaking and performance, test-taking, situations. Health food stores carry these items. They work wonders calming butterflies.
I recommend practicing 20 minutes. Readback, get up, stretch, sit down and get back to work. Maintain a schedule. Chart your progress.
Having problems with specific prefixes, suffixes? How about finger combinations? Finger drills are great. Robert McCormick, MBA, CRI, NCRA’s 2004 Teacher of The Year, created a CD, 'CATapult BEEDs' Software Program to specifically address issues individuals face when practicing for certification exams.
This 'BEEDs CD' will change the way you practice and advance in your schooling and career. BEEDs has finger exercises, numbers, essential words, names, and multiple free features to assist you to pass your certification skills portion of each examination.
The link for the 'BEEDs CD' is http://crrbooks.com/index.php?cPath=35
Results and testimonials from individuals may viewed at http://crrbooks.com/index.php?cPath=28
Practice when you're most alert. Write during your anticipated test time to peak your mental and physical skills.
Act on your goals; know that you deserve to pass the test. After you've studied and honed your skills, relax and go play.
Train as an athlete. Concentrate on nutrition; focus on skills preparations. And when you surrender your state or national test, you should be able to say, "Here, certify this."
Monette Benoit may be reached at: Tutoring@CRRbooks.com
About the Author:
Monette Benoit, B.B.A., CCR, CRI, CPE, is a JCR Contributing Editor for the National Court Reporters Association, NCRA. She is the author of multiple books to include the national and state RPR, RMR, RDR, CSR ‘Written Knowledge Exam’ Textbook, Workbook, a companion Study Guide, ‘The CRRT WKT’ CD Software Program, Advanced SAT, LSAT, GRE, Real-Time Vocabulary Workbook and‘CATapult’ Dictionary CD Software Program series.
Books, CDs, private tutoring, mentoring services and articles may be referenced http://www.crrbooks.com/.
Monette is an experienced consultant, instructor, realtime court reporter, tutor, life coach, CART provider, columnist.
She teaches, tutors and coaches home-study students, college students, court reporters and professionals. Monette speaks to groups at state, national and international conventions about motivation, technology, expanding skills and Deaf, Oral Deaf, Hard of Hearing.
Monette Benoit may be reached: http://www.crrbooks.com/ http://www.catapultdix.com/ and http://www.artcs.com/
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