Pitman Short Forms and Phrasing: How to Learn Them Fast
Short forms and phrasing save the most writing time in shorthand, so learning them well is the fastest way to build speed. Learn them in small groups, review them with flashcards on a schedule, and use them in real dictations every day.
Key takeaways
- Short forms are the most common words, written very briefly.
- Phrasing joins common word groups into one outline.
- Learn in small groups, not all at once.
- Use them in dictation immediately.
What are short forms?
Short forms are brief outlines for the most frequent words in the language. Because these words appear constantly, writing them in a single quick stroke saves a large share of your writing time.
What is phrasing?
Phrasing means joining several common words into one flowing outline. It reduces pen lifts, which is where a lot of time is lost. Learn simple, high-frequency phrases first, and add more as your outlines become fluent.
A method to learn them
- Pick ten short forms from your course.
- Write each five times while saying the word aloud.
- Test yourself with flashcards the same day.
- Review after one day, three days and a week.
- Add ten more only when the first ten are automatic.
Use them in practice
Knowing a short form is different from using it under speed. Take a short dictation after each study session and force yourself to use the new forms. Review where you hesitated.
Common problems
- Learning too many at once and forgetting them.
- Knowing them on paper but not using them in dictation.
- Writing similar short forms the same way.
- Skipping review days.
Ready to put this into practice? Browse the dictation catalog, pick a speed that fits your level, and get an instant mistake breakdown after every attempt. Create a free account to save your progress.
Frequently asked questions
How many short forms should I learn per day?
Around ten is a good pace. More than that usually means forgetting.
Does phrasing help beginners?
Learn short forms first. Add phrasing once your basic outlines are fluent.
How do I remember short forms?
Use flashcards with spaced review and use them in dictations.
Can I invent my own phrases?
Stick to your course system first. Personal phrases can come later, once they are consistent.
Why am I slow even after learning them?
You may know them but not yet use them under speed. Practice them in timed dictations.