Court Reporter how-to

How to Prepare for a Deposition

Preparation improves accuracy.

Updated By the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team
Quick answer

Preparation improves accuracy. In short: review; build; set, then complete the remaining steps below.

Step by step

  1. Review case details.

  2. Build dictionary entries for names and terms.

  3. Set up equipment and backups.

  4. Confirm spellings with attorneys.

  5. Swear in the witness where allowed.

  6. Record proceedings.

Safety reminders for court reporters

  • Use ergonomic setups to prevent strain
  • Protect confidential records
  • Take breaks during long proceedings
  • Back up files

Stenotype · Realtime · CAT software · Deposition · Transcript · Read-back: see the full court reporter glossary.

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