Clickable dictation at various speeds is available at the bottom of this page. The transcript of the dictation appears here as well.
Once more, this take is shorter than is adequate for testing. Also, the vocabulary is rather easy. So be sure to push for higher-than-normal speeds!
Shorterhand Skills for the Future, Pitman Publishing Corporation, 1974, p 121, 127, and 133
Theory Practice
You indicated in your letter that our last shipment contained many damaged boxes. We have checked all of the boxes and the damage which totaled $82 which we have deducted from your bill.
I believe the damage could have been prevented if we had labeled the boxes in such a way as to indicate that they were to be handled carefully. Hereafter, we shall take appropriate steps to prevent excessive damage by making an accurate record of the contents of the boxes on the outside. In this way, we are sure that we shall be able to keep a to minimum the margin of loss due to such damage.
* * * * *
We have obtained an excellent machine that can be used to improve the cleaning of your apartment. It has been approved by many experts in the field and has proved to be popular and reliable with those who have used it. Because the machine is so popular, we are extending the time during which it will be on sale. We have observed that many people wish to buy this machine as a gift for their friends.
Although this machine does not need any special handling or treatment, we have a repair department that is qualified to give service as well as technical assistance.
* * * * *
I am prepared to cooperate with you in the handling of the delinquent accounts as indicated in the letter you mailed two weeks ago. Even under ordinary circumstances, we would suggest that you use a great deal of discretion in tying to settle the indebtedness of these customers. However, these customers can well afford to make an early disposition of their indebtedness. I am inclined to believe that their unwillingness to cooperate is due to some extraordinary circumstances of which we are not aware.
For more information on shorthand speed building, click here.
Instructions for Self-Dictation Practice:
Copy and paste the above article into a word-processing document, using double or triple spacing and 12- or 14-pitch type.
As always, be sure to check your shorthand dictionary for correct outlines before "drilling"!
Dictation Practice:
Note that the material was counted and recorded for dictation at 100; all other speeds were copied from the 100 take and electronically adjusted and may therefore sound unusual.
60 wpm 80 wpm 100 wpm 120 wpm 140 wpm
The dictation material above is copyrighted, all rights reserved.