Frequently Asked Questions

Q.      What does a scopist do?


A.      A scopist reads a reporter's  document word-for-word.  S/he  corrects untranslated or  mistranslated steno, adds  punctuation where needed, edits spelling as necessary and fixes  formatting per the reporter's specifications. The scopist will research names of people, places, products, etc. when needed to be sure the record is correct. My goal is to return a transcript that is as near to a final transcript as possible, but the reporter should always do a final proofread her/himself.


Q.      Is there really a benefit to hiring a scopist?


 A.      Absolutely! Consider the following scenario. Two reporters take jobs of 200 pages each at a rate of $4/pg. Compare their total earnings after two days of work WITH and WITHOUT the assista

DAY 1 - Reporter WITH Scopist: 

  1. Reporter writes 200 pgs. x $4/pg . = $800
  2. Pays Scopist 200 pgs. x $1.10 = $220
  3. Net Earnings Day 1 ($800 - $220 = $580)
  4. Total for Day 1 = $580

DAY 2 - Reporter WITH Scopist:

  1. Reporter writes 200 pgs. x $4/pg. = $800
  2. Pays Scopist 200 pgs. x $1.10 = $220
  3. Net Earnings Day 2 ($800 - $220 = $580)
  4. Total for Day 2 = $580
  5. Total for Days 1 and 2 = $1,160

DAY 1 - Reporter WITHOUT Scopist: 

  1. Reporter writes 200 pgs. x $4/pg. = $800
  2. No scopist expense
  3. Net Earnings Day 1 = $800
  4. Total for Day 1 = $800

DAY 2 - Reporter WITHOUT Scopist:

  1. Reporter takes no new work 
  2. No scopist expense
  3. Completes order to scope job from Day 1
  4. Net Earnings for Day 2 = $0
  5. Total for Days 1 and 2 = $800

Q.     How do we get started?


 A.    You may do one of two things to get started: 


  •  Complete and submit the preference sheet provided under the "Submit Work" tab  and return the completed form via email or facsimile.  I will be notified of a new submission on the form and will follow up with you right away
  • Reach out to me by one of the contact methods provided on the "Home" tab

 

Q.     Do you read steno? Will you send updates for my dictionary?


A.    Yes and yes! 


Q.      What reference do you use for punctuation guidance?


A.    Morson's English Guide for Court Reporters by Lillian Morson.


Q.   How long do you retain jobs you've completed?


A.   I keep all finished work for one year from the date the completed job is returned to the reporter. If at any time during those 12 months you need a file re-sent, I am more than happy to accommodate your request