Speech-to-Text Reporter (STTR)

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Speech-to-Text Reporters (STTR) are also referred to as Palantypists. STTRs will produce a verbatim record of what is being said, which will instantly be produced on a screen. Used originally in the courtroom, STTRs are invaluable to deaf people.

An STTR will attempt to record everything that has been said as well as other sounds such as laughter and applause. STTRs use a specialist keyboard which is linked to a laptop or computer, this keyboard is a shorthand keyboard and unlike a traditional QWERTY version where letters are shown, phonetic sounds are represented and specialist software will convert the information into English. Speeds of up to 200 words per minute and accuracy rates of 98% are expected of STTRs.  

Extensive training is required to become an STTR; learning how to use the specialist keyboard and software is essential. It is recommended at least 2 years training on building speed and accuracy is demonstrated before undertaking independent work.

The National Registers for Communication Professionals working with Deaf and Deafblind People (NRCPD) offers a register for STTRs. The Association of Verbatim Speech to Text Reporters is a professional association representing STTRs.