Shorthand – could I teach myself?

[RockinInAFreeWorld]

Not sure if i’m posting in the most appropriate thread, however thought there may be some journalists on here who could advise...

I’m really keen to learn shorthand, I didn’t study a degree that warranted learning it but have fallen into a career I enjoy that involves interviewing other staff members and creating stories for our website/newsletters etc. I’m not keen on using recording devices as find it takes me a lot longer to churn out the text; however I’m often frantically jotting down in ‘long hand’ and feel i’m missing bits of the conversation as i’m still writing when they’ve moved onto the next part.

My employer paid for a short course in Journalism for me a couple of years ago which was a huge help, didn’t cover shorthand though. I would ask if they would consider sending me on a shorthand course however i’ve got a couple of job applications out at the moment and am looking to move on (been here 6 years).

I’m aware there’s different types of shorthand, possibly some are easier to pick up than others? My partner bought me a Teeline text book recently when I first said i’d like to explore teaching myself. I should just start reading it and have a go really shouldn’t I!?

Thanks guys x

[Note3]

Hi, I have a shorthand book that was my aunts (now deceased). I'm trying to rehome her treasured books to people interested in the subject and would be happy to post it to you if you'd use it. If you'd like it PM me your postal details and I don't mind paying postage if it will be used. I can let you know which it is when I go downstairs in a min (settling baby to sleep)

[KTMorton]

Thank you, that is so very kind. I'll PM you now x

[mrsharrison]

The easiest shorthand system is teeline. Pitmans is hard. I learned teeline on a course 30 years ago and have never forgotten it. Teaching yourself is possible but you must practice a lot. Aim for 100wpm.

[MissBabbs]

I would research it a bit before putting money into it. I thought I would teach myself and bought tee line books. -haha, - v tedious and hard to memorise.
Maybe try the library first.

[heatherpurple]

I too, would recommend teeline. It all comes down to practice - do it often enough and you'll get it.

[Efferlunt]

I would say teeline could be learnt from a good book and a bit of practice.

[PuppyMonkey]

I also do Teeline (passed my NCTJ course wth 120 wpm) - in my day, there were courses available at local college, but I must admit I learned most of it at specialist Journalism College in Sheffield.... You can learn it quite quickly, it's much easier than Pitman.

The teeline book mentioned here sounds like a decent way to start. Once you know the outlines and shortcuts etc, the best way to practise is to try noting down the news headlines on the radio etc.