Shorthand is one of those oldschool skills that’s still surprisingly useful today. Whether you’re jotting down notes in class, keeping up in a busy courtroom, or just trying to write faster than you can type, it gets the job done. It’s not just for journalists or legal types – anyone can pick it up.
What Exactly Is Shorthand? 🧠
Shorthand is a method of rapid writing using symbols, abbreviations or strokes that replace the usual way we write words. It was designed to help people write as quickly as they speak – and in the right hands, it can be blazingly fast.
Instead of writing every single letter, shorthand systems simplify sounds into quick marks that are easy to repeat and hard to misinterpret. It is often used in note-taking, especially when speed and discretion matter.
A Quick Look at Its History 📜
Shorthand goes way back. The Romans had their own system, and it evolved over centuries into the forms we see today. In the 19th and 20th centuries, shorthand became a core part of secretarial training and journalism education. Systems like Gregg, Pitman and later Teeline became standards in the workplace.
Though the digital age reduced its use, shorthand never disappeared – especially in professions where accuracy and speed are critical.
Popular Types of Shorthand ✏️
There is no single way to write shorthand – several systems exist, each with its own style and logic. Here are the most common ones:
Gregg Shorthand
Popular in the United States, Gregg uses curves and slashes to represent sounds. It is very fluid and designed for speed.
Pitman Shorthand
Common in the UK and former British colonies, Pitman relies on line thickness and direction. It is precise but takes time to master.
Teeline Shorthand
Favoured by journalists in the UK, Teeline is simpler and quicker to learn than the others. It is still taught today and used in newsrooms and court reporting.
Who Uses It Today? 🕵️
You might think shorthand is outdated, but it is still alive and kicking. Here is where you will find it in use:
➡️ Court reporters and legal transcribers
➡️ Journalists, especially those covering live events or court proceedings
➡️ Administrative professionals in fast-paced office environments
➡️ Students and note-takers looking for speed and clarity
➡️ Writers and creatives capturing ideas on the fly
Even in a world of smartphones and voice recorders, shorthand remains a preferred tool in places where privacy, speed and accuracy are essential.
Why Learn Shorthand? 💡
There are some clear advantages:
➡️ You can write faster than with regular handwriting
➡️ You will capture more in meetings, lectures or interviews
➡️ It gives you a private system of writing
➡️ It is satisfying to master and can improve overall focus
Learning shorthand can also improve your listening skills and help you stay mentally sharp.
Is It Hard to Learn? 🤔
That depends. Some systems like Pitman require more training, while others like Teeline are more beginner-friendly. But like any skill, the key is consistent practice. Start small – even 10 minutes a day can make a big difference over time.
You do not need to be perfect. Even learning a handful of common symbols can save time and boost your writing flow.
How to Get Started 🚀
Ready to try it? Here is how to begin:
🟡 Choose a system – Teeline is a great entry point
🟡 Find a free online guide or book
🟡 Start practising simple sentences and common words
🟡 Build speed gradually
🟡 Use shorthand in your daily notes or journaling
There are also apps and online communities where you can share progress and get tips from others learning the same system.
✏️ Writing Tools to Get You Started with Shorthand
You don’t need much to begin learning shorthand, but having the right tools makes a difference. Here’s a basic setup built entirely from Write Here:
➡️ Lamy Safari Mechanical Pencil (0.5 mm) – reliable, ergonomic, and ideal for fast, precise writing
➡️ Lamy Al-Star Ballpoint Pen – clean lines, consistent ink flow, and comfortable grip
➡️ Kaweco Perkeo Fountain Pen – beginner-friendly fountain pen with solid control and easy ink management
➡️ Leuchtturm Notebooks – smooth paper that handles any ink or pencil.
That’s everything you need to hit the ground running – no gimmicks, just gear that works.
Final Thoughts 🧾
Shorthand might seem like a throwback, but it is still relevant, useful and surprisingly modern in the right hands. Whether you are a student, journalist or just someone who wants to write faster and think clearer, shorthand is worth exploring.
Forget fancy gadgets – sometimes, a pen and a clever system is all you need.