Stenographers

Individuals who take dictation in shorthand notes and then transcribe dictated material using a typewriter or word processor. Occasionally they may type directly from a dictating machine, using earphones to listen to a recorded voice. Dictation may include letters, legal documents, technical or statistical data and other materials. Stenographers are responsible for correct format, punctuation, capitalization and spelling. They are expected to distinguish between words or expressions that sound alike but are spelled differently and to use the dictionary for reference. They may also perform a variety of other clerical duties such as transcribing taped material.