Beginner's Guide: Difference between revisions

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This guide explains how to '''get started with Plover'''. Plover is free stenography software. All the learning resources listed below are free-of-charge.
This guide explains how to '''get started with Plover'''. Plover is free stenography software. All the learning resources listed below are free-of-charge.
In order to get started, the main steps are:
# Install Plover (the application)
# Acquire and connect a keyboard or steno writer
# Learn stenography, starting with theory


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Plover works on '''Windows, Mac, and Linux'''.
Plover is an app that translates the strokes you press on your steno machine to entire words. If you do not have a steno machine, Plover can use your regular keyboard as one. It is free to download, and it works on '''Windows, Mac, and Linux'''.


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<span id="connect-a-compatible-keyboard-or-stenography-machine"></span>
== Connect a compatible keyboard or stenography machine ==
 
== Connect a compatible keyboard or stenography machine == <!--T:11-->


<!--T:12-->
<!--T:12-->
Steno involves pressing down groups of keys (called “strokes” or “chords) all at once. Standard QWERTY keyboards usually only recognize a few keys pressed at once. While some steno strokes may contain as many as as 10 keys, it is still possible to learn the basics of steno with a regular keyboard. A dedicated steno keyboard will make it significantly easier to reach 120+ WPM, but we would not recommend buying one until you are sure you want to dedicate the time to learning steno.
Steno involves pressing down groups of keys (called “strokes” or “chords") all at once. Standard QWERTY keyboards can usually only recognize up to six simultaneous key presses, while a dedicated steno writer has no limit to how many simultaneous key presses it can register.


<!--T:13-->
===Compatible hardware===
Feel free to read this entire section, but if you are already familiar with the hardware you have, you can skip to the relevant subsection:
{{See also|Supported hardware}}
* [[#use-a-standard-qwerty-keyboard|Use a standard QWERTY keyboard]]  
Among other hardware, Plover is compatible with:
* [[#use-an-n-key-rollover-nkro-qwerty-keyboard|Use an N-key rollover (NKRO) QWERTY keyboard]]  
# '''Standard keyboards''' - Requires no additional investment from the average computer user. It is possible to overcome the six simultaneous key presses limitation using [[Arpeggiating|arpeggiation]]. Recommended for those who are ''unsure whether you want to learn steno''. Read the page on [[using a standard keyboard with Plover]].
* [[#adapt-a-keyboard-for-steno-use|Adapt a keyboard for steno use]]  
# '''Hobbyist writers''' - Pre-built mechanical keyboards specialized for stenography which cost, on average, around $110 USD. Choose from the currently available [[Supported hardware#Commercially available hobbyist writers|commercially available hobbyist writers]] or [[DIY_steno_writers|DIY your own keyboard]].
* [[#use-a-machine-designed-for-use-with-plover|Use a machine designed for use with Plover]]
# '''Professional writers''' - Used by professional stenographers and court reporters, not typically used by the hobbyist community due to their $1000 (used) to $6000 (new) price tags. If you already own one, you can connect it to Plover as long as it uses one of the [[Supported_hardware#Supported_protocols|supported protocols]].
* [[#use-a-professional-stenography-machine|Use a professional stenography machine]]


<!--T:14-->
With the help of a plugin, it is also possible to use a [[Video_game_controllers|video game controller]] with Plover.
<span id="use-a-standard-qwerty-keyboard"></span>
=== Use a standard QWERTY keyboard ===


<!--T:15-->
===Connecting your hardware===
If you are on a laptop or are using a generic keyboard, chances are it does not have N-key rollover (NKRO). This refers to keyboards that are capable of recognizing any number of keys pressed simultaneously. Most keyboards can only recognize up to 6 simultaneous key presses (and some combinations may only yield 2 simultaneous key presses). To work around the lack of NKRO, you have two options: arpeggiating, and rolling your strokes.
[[File:Plover-connected.jpg|thumb|right|Plover connected to a standard keyboard and with Output enabled.]]


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<!--T:43-->
<span id="arpeggiate"></span>
To use a '''standard keyboard''': Plover is set up to use your computer’s typing keyboard by default. You can connect your keyboard by selecting "Keyboard" in the Machine dropdown, and the status message underneath should update to "Connected".
==== Arpeggiate ====
 
<!--T:17-->
With the arpeggiate option enabled, you can write a stroke by pressing smaller groups of keys (or even individually) and then the spacebar once you’ve finished. Plover will not process a chord until after you have pressed the spacebar. This way, you do not necessarily have to press multiple keys at once, thereby working around the lack of NKRO.
 
<!--T:18-->
https://media.discordapp.net/attachments/1034561065654161478/1200852241993715863/keyboard-arpeggiate.gif
 
<!--T:19-->
To enable arpeggiate, open Plover’s main window and press <code>Configure</code>. Under “Machine” enable <code>Arpeggiate</code> and click <code>Apply</code> and <code>OK</code> when you are done.
 
<!--T:20-->
<span id="rolling-your-strokes"></span>
==== Rolling your strokes ====
 
<!--T:21-->
By default, Plover does not process steno strokes until every single key has been released. You can use this feature to your advantage if you do not have an NKRO keyboard. Instead of pressing the keys in a stroke simultaneously, press only a few. Slowly add one more key in the stroke while releasing another. As long as you keep at least one key pressed down, Plover will not receive your steno stroke, and you can still add in more keys to the stroke.
 
<!--T:22-->
https://cdn.discordapp.com/attachments/136953809409802240/1173317394022801488/keyboard-roll.gif
 
<!--T:23-->
Regardless of if you roll or arpeggiate your strokes, make sure you [[#confirm-its-working|confirm it’s working]].
 
<!--T:24-->
<span id="use-an-n-key-rollover-nkro-qwerty-keyboard"></span>
=== Use an N-key rollover (NKRO) QWERTY keyboard ===
 
<!--T:25-->
An N-key rollover (NKRO) keyboard is specially designed to allow pressing many keys at once. Many gaming/mechanical keyboards have NKRO. With an NKRO keyboard and Plover, you can press down every single key in a stroke all at once without needing to use one of the workarounds mentioned above. By default, Plover is set to use your keyboard as a steno machine after you install the app.
 
<!--T:26-->
To test if your keyboard has NKRO, you can go to an [https://keyboardchecker.com/ online keyboard checker] and press down a bunch of keys all at once and see if they all light up.
 
<!--T:27-->
Be sure to try the example later in this page to [[#confirm-its-working|confirm it’s working]].
 
<!--T:28-->
<span id="which-nkro-keyboard-should-i-get"></span>
==== Which NKRO keyboard should I get? ====
 
<!--T:29-->
Full NKRO over USB is possible, and many keyboards do it well. Generally, searching for “NKRO” or “anti-ghosting” keyboards will result in compatible keyboards. Make sure to check reviews before purchasing a keyboard as some have been known to falsely advertise NKRO (although, this is a rare occurrence).
 
<!--T:30-->
* See the [[Supported Hardware]] page for a [https://github.com/openstenoproject/plover/wiki/Supported-Hardware#known-supported-keyboards list of supported keyboards].
* See also: [https://github.com/openstenoproject/plover/wiki/Supported-Hardware#which-type-of-key-switch-should-i-choose Which type of key switch should I choose?]
 
<!--T:31-->
<span id="adapt-a-keyboard-for-steno-use"></span>
=== Adapt a keyboard for steno use ===
 
<!--T:32-->
Most keyboards have the keys in staggered rows, which can make it difficult to press two keys in a column with a single finger. To adapt a keyboard for steno, you can use:
 
<!--T:33-->
* [https://github.com/openstenoproject/plover/wiki/Supported-Hardware#keytoppers Keytoppers]
* [https://github.com/openstenoproject/plover/wiki/Supported-Hardware#keycaps Keycaps]
 
<!--T:34-->
You can also use [https://github.com/openstenoproject/plover/wiki/Supported-Hardware#nkro-keyboards-with-an-ortholinear-layout a keyboard with an ortholinear layout].
 
<!--T:35-->
<span id="use-a-machine-designed-for-use-with-plover"></span>
=== Use a machine designed for use with Plover ===
 
<!--T:36-->
Various steno enthusiasts are making and selling machines designed for use with Plover:
 
<!--T:37-->
* [https://nolltronics.com/product/ecosteno/ Ecosteno]
* [https://nolltronics.com/product/multisteno/ Multisteno]
* [https://stenokeyboards.com/products/polyglot-keyboard Polyglot]
* [https://softhruf.love/products/soft-hruf-erl Splitography]
* [https://www.stenography.store/ Starboard]
* [https://stenomod.blogspot.com/2018/11/tinymod2.html TinyMod]
* [https://stenokeyboards.com/ The Uni]
 
<!--T:38-->
More information: [https://github.com/openstenoproject/plover/wiki/Supported-Hardware#dedicated-machines-designed-for-use-with-plover Dedicated machines designed for use with Plover].
 
<!--T:39-->
<span id="use-a-professional-stenography-machine"></span>
=== Use a professional stenography machine ===


<!--T:40-->
To use a '''hobbyist''' or '''professional writer''': see the page on [[setting up your writer with Plover]] to connect your hardware to the Plover software. If you're having trouble achieving "Connected" after following the instructions, [[Troubleshooting issues|troubleshoot]].
Some professional stenography machines are compatible with Plover. You can find used steno machines on eBay at reasonable prices.


<!--T:41-->
When the "Output" is toggled to disabled, your keyboard will operate as normal and your steno machine will not give any output. When "Output" is toggled to enabled, you will be in steno mode! Plover will type to any place you normally use your keyboard to type (browsers, documents, emails, chat apps, etc.)
See the [[Supported Hardware]] page for a list of supported professional stenography machines.


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<!--T:42-->
<span id="confirm-its-working"></span>
== Learn and practice==
== Confirm it’s working ==
{{See also|Learning stenography}}


<!--T:43-->
<!--T:70-->
Initially, Plover is set up to use your computer’s qwerty keyboard by default. If you have a professional stenography machine, or a hobbyist steno keyboard, you’ll need to configure Plover to look for your machine (usually GeminiPR or TX Bolt). See each respective vendor’s guides on how to set up your keyboard with Plover. See also [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2tp_hSVCKN8 this video tutorial] for how to set up a hobbyist steno keyboard that uses Gemini PR.
'''If you are new to stenography,''' you can now start [[learning stenography]] by [[memorizing the key layout]] and [[choosing a steno theory]].
 
<!--T:44-->
<span id="keyboard"></span>
=== Keyboard ===


<!--T:45-->
[[Theory]] is the set of rules used to learn and write using stenography; a [[dictionary]] is an implementation of those rules which allows Plover to interpret your steno strokes and display them in English. Most theories come with a dictionary for you to plug into stenography software, but as your implementation and interpretation changes, [[Personalizing your dictionary|so will your dictionary]].
By default, Plover will use your keyboard as its input device.


<!--T:46-->
'''If you are new to Plover but not to stenography,''' upload your dictionary to Plover, learn about Plover's [[dictionary format]], and read the [[FAQ]].
# Run Plover.
# Click the Output: '''Enable''' radio button.


<!--T:47-->
'''By default,''' [[Plover software|Plover (the software)]] comes with the dictionary for [[Plover theory|Plover (the steno theory)]] already installed.
<span id="write-hello-world"></span>
* To use this dictionary, you can learn Plover theory.
=== Write “Hello World” ===
* If you want to learn a different steno theory, you can upload their dictionary into Plover (or, in the case of [[Lapwing theory|Lapwing]], install a plugin).
* If you have already learned theory and are coming to Plover from a different steno software, you can upload your dictionary into Plover using <code>.rtf</code> format.


<!--T:48-->
== Write your first strokes with Plover ==
To confirm Plover is working correctly, you may try to write “Hello, world.” into a text editor with Plover. Open Plover’s main window and, and select Plover’s output to be enabled. Open a text editor and write the steno key strokes in the table below, one row at a time.
To confirm Plover is working correctly, follow this tutorial to write “hello, world.” into a text editor with Plover. Open a text editor and write the steno key strokes in the table below, one row at a time.


<!--T:49-->
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{{Info|text=Notepad in Windows 11 is quite buggy with fast input and does not work well with Plover. Instead of Notepad, try a different program such as Microsoft Word or Google Docs in a browser.
{{Info|text=Notepad in Windows 11 is buggy with Plover's fast emulated output. Try a different program such as Microsoft Word or Google Docs in a browser, or [[Configuration#Output Tab|increase the key press delay]].}}


<!--T:50-->
<!--T:51-->
This can be somewhat circumvented using a key input delay, as shown below:<br />
On a QWERTY keyboard, the steno keys are arranged as follows:
[[File:Plover_key_delay.png]]}}
[[File:Steno keys on QWERTY keyboard by Jen.png|center|thumb|583x583px|Steno keys on a QWERTY keyboard as understood by Plover.]]


<!--T:51-->
If you are using a QWERTY keyboard, you may find it helpful to follow the column on the right. Unless you are [[arpeggiating]] (rolling) your strokes, make sure to press every single key all at once. Remember to release every key after each stroke.
If you are using a QWERTY keyboard, follow the QWERTY keys on the right column. Otherwise, follow the middle column. Unless you are arpeggiating or rolling your strokes, make sure to press every single key all at once. Remember to release every key after each row.


<!--T:52-->
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|-
|-
! Output
! Output
! Steno Key Stroke
! Steno Stroke
! QWERTY Keys
! QWERTY Keys
|-
|-
| hell
| hell
| <code>HEL</code>
| <code>HEL</code>
| <code>r</code> (left index index) <br> <code>n</code> (right thumb) <br> <code>o</code> (right ring finger )
| <code>r</code> (left index index) <br> <code>n</code> (right thumb) <br> <code>o</code> (right ring finger)
|-
|-
| o
| o
Line 195: Line 101:


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If you see different output, open the paper tape (in Plover’s main window under <code>Tools → Paper Tape</code>) and try the steno strokes again. Verify that the right keys are being registered. If the steno keys shown in the paper tape are not the same as those in the middle column above, first make sure you are pressing the right physical keys. If you are still not getting the right output, have a look at the following: * If you are using a steno machine and are not getting the right keys/output, ensure you are using the right protocol for your [https://github.com/openstenoproject/plover/wiki/Beginner's-Guide:-Get-Started-with-Plover#stenography-machine stenography machine] * If you are using a QWERTY keyboard and are not getting the right keys/output, your keyboard may not have NKRO
If you see different output, open the paper tape (in Plover’s main window under <code>Tools → Paper Tape</code>) and try the steno strokes again. Verify that the right keys are being registered. If the steno keys shown in the paper tape are not the same as those in the middle column above, first make sure you are pressing the right physical keys. If you are still not getting the right output, have a look at the following:  
 
* If you are using a steno machine and are not getting the right keys/output, make sure you have set it up correctly.
<!--T:54-->
* If you are using a QWERTY keyboard and are not getting the right keys/output, your keyboard may not have NKRO. Try rolling or [[arpeggiating]] your strokes.
<span id="practice-sentences"></span>
==== Practice sentences ====
 
<!--T:55-->
You can practice sentences that (mostly) only need two keys at once, on the [https://joshuagrams.github.io/steno-jig/two-key StenoJig] website.
 
<!--T:56-->
<span id="use-the-correct-body-posture-and-finger-placement"></span>
==== Use the correct body posture and finger placement ====
 
<!--T:57-->
Your fingers should be curled slightly, so you press the keys using the tips of your fingers.
 
<!--T:58-->
<div class="figure">
 
<!--T:59-->
https://media.discordapp.net/attachments/136953735426473984/856464615469875200/Keyboard_Mapping.png
 
<!--T:60-->
</div>
On a QWERTY keyboard, you move your hands half an inch up so that your left thumb is resting on the cracks between the <code>C</code> and <code>V</code> keys and your right thumb is resting between the <code>N</code> and <code>M</code> keys. The rest should fall into place.
 
<!--T:61-->
{| class="wikitable"
|-
! style="text-align: center;"| QWERTY layout
! style="text-align: center;"| Maps to steno layout
|-
| style="text-align: center;"| <code>QWER  TY  UIOP[</code>
| style="text-align: center;"| <code>STPH  **  FPLTD</code>
|-
| style="text-align: center;"| <code>ASDF  GH  JKL;</code>
| style="text-align: center;"| <code>SKWR  **  RBGSZ</code>
|-
| style="text-align: center;"| <code>CV  NM</code>
| style="text-align: center;"| <code>AO  EU</code>
|}
 
<!--T:62-->
See also:
 
<!--T:63-->
* [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YfHNPW6EnHo Basic Hand Posture on the Steno Machine]
* [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s_zyxgQvNEU Basic Body Position for Steno Students and Pros]
 
<!--T:64-->
<span id="stenography-machine"></span>
 
=== Stenography machine === <!--T:65-->
 
<!--T:66-->
Plover supports several protocols that are in use by various professional stenography machines. To configure Plover to the protocol your machine uses:
 
<!--T:67-->
# Run Plover and click the '''Enable''' radio button.
# Click the '''Configure''' button on the Plover Dialog screen. The Plover configuration screen appears.
# On the '''Machine''' tab, select the protocol your machine uses.
# Click '''Save'''.
 
<!--T:68-->
See [https://github.com/openstenoproject/plover/wiki/Supported-Hardware#supported-protocols Supported protocols] for more information.
 
<!--T:69-->
<span id="practice-and-learn"></span>
== Practice and learn ==
 
<!--T:70-->
It’s time to start learning stenography theory for free, practicing writing using stenography, and learning how to make the most of Plover’s built-in tools. See the [[Learning Stenography|Learning Resources]].
 
<!--T:71-->
<span id="which-steno-theory-should-you-learn"></span>
=== Which steno theory should you learn? ===
 
<!--T:72-->
There are many steno theories that encompass the rules you use to convert words to steno strokes.
 
<!--T:73-->
Almost all English language steno theories are derived from the original Stenotype theory devised by Ward Ireland. They all share the same keyboard design and basic method of representing the sounds. Theories mostly differ by how much rote memorization is required. Typically, memorization heavy theories are faster.
 
 
<!--T:74-->
The default theory that comes with the Plover app (called Plover theory) is Mirabai Knight’s own personal theory that she uses for stenocaptioning—it is very fast, as a result. However, there are a lot of odd inconsistencies that may not make it a great choice for beginners. Using it requires a lot of personal changes and additions very early on in the learning process.
 
<!--T:75-->
One alternative to Plover is Lapwing theory. It was created by a community member dissatisfied with the unnecessarily steep learning curve associated with Plover theory. It has a comprehensive wiki that covers a wide range of content along with exercises to practice concepts. Many regard it as easier to learn than Plover theory due to having more consistent rules. For details on how to set up and learn Lapwing theory, see the [https://github.com/aerickt/lapwing-for-beginners/wiki Lapwing for Beginners Wiki].
 
<!--T:76-->
'''We recommend learning either Plover theory or Lapwing theory.'''
 
<!--T:77-->
Other theories also exist, but either cost money, or are not supported by Plover. Ultimately, it does not matter which theory you choose when it comes to speed—it is always possible to add more memorization into the theory you’ve chosen to squeeze out more speed. Furthermore, we do not recommend spending money on a theory until you’re certain you like stenography and see a clear reason to switch.


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[[Category:Plover]]
[[Category:Plover]]
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Latest revision as of 16:41, 20 March 2026

Other languages:

This guide explains how to get started with Plover. Plover is free stenography software. All the learning resources listed below are free-of-charge.

In order to get started, the main steps are:

  1. Install Plover (the application)
  2. Acquire and connect a keyboard or steno writer
  3. Learn stenography, starting with theory

Download and Install Plover

Plover is an app that translates the strokes you press on your steno machine to entire words. If you do not have a steno machine, Plover can use your regular keyboard as one. It is free to download, and it works on Windows, Mac, and Linux.

Connect a compatible keyboard or stenography machine

Steno involves pressing down groups of keys (called “strokes” or “chords") all at once. Standard QWERTY keyboards can usually only recognize up to six simultaneous key presses, while a dedicated steno writer has no limit to how many simultaneous key presses it can register.

Compatible hardware

See also: Supported hardware

Among other hardware, Plover is compatible with:

  1. Standard keyboards - Requires no additional investment from the average computer user. It is possible to overcome the six simultaneous key presses limitation using arpeggiation. Recommended for those who are unsure whether you want to learn steno. Read the page on using a standard keyboard with Plover.
  2. Hobbyist writers - Pre-built mechanical keyboards specialized for stenography which cost, on average, around $110 USD. Choose from the currently available commercially available hobbyist writers or DIY your own keyboard.
  3. Professional writers - Used by professional stenographers and court reporters, not typically used by the hobbyist community due to their $1000 (used) to $6000 (new) price tags. If you already own one, you can connect it to Plover as long as it uses one of the supported protocols.

With the help of a plugin, it is also possible to use a video game controller with Plover.

Connecting your hardware

Plover connected to a standard keyboard and with Output enabled.

To use a standard keyboard: Plover is set up to use your computer’s typing keyboard by default. You can connect your keyboard by selecting "Keyboard" in the Machine dropdown, and the status message underneath should update to "Connected".

To use a hobbyist or professional writer: see the page on setting up your writer with Plover to connect your hardware to the Plover software. If you're having trouble achieving "Connected" after following the instructions, troubleshoot.

When the "Output" is toggled to disabled, your keyboard will operate as normal and your steno machine will not give any output. When "Output" is toggled to enabled, you will be in steno mode! Plover will type to any place you normally use your keyboard to type (browsers, documents, emails, chat apps, etc.)

Learn and practice

See also: Learning stenography

If you are new to stenography, you can now start learning stenography by memorizing the key layout and choosing a steno theory.

Theory is the set of rules used to learn and write using stenography; a dictionary is an implementation of those rules which allows Plover to interpret your steno strokes and display them in English. Most theories come with a dictionary for you to plug into stenography software, but as your implementation and interpretation changes, so will your dictionary.

If you are new to Plover but not to stenography, upload your dictionary to Plover, learn about Plover's dictionary format, and read the FAQ.

By default, Plover (the software) comes with the dictionary for Plover (the steno theory) already installed.

  • To use this dictionary, you can learn Plover theory.
  • If you want to learn a different steno theory, you can upload their dictionary into Plover (or, in the case of Lapwing, install a plugin).
  • If you have already learned theory and are coming to Plover from a different steno software, you can upload your dictionary into Plover using .rtf format.

Write your first strokes with Plover

To confirm Plover is working correctly, follow this tutorial to write “hello, world.” into a text editor with Plover. Open a text editor and write the steno key strokes in the table below, one row at a time.

format=frameless
format=frameless

Notepad in Windows 11 is buggy with Plover's fast emulated output. Try a different program such as Microsoft Word or Google Docs in a browser, or increase the key press delay.



On a QWERTY keyboard, the steno keys are arranged as follows:

Steno keys on a QWERTY keyboard as understood by Plover.

If you are using a QWERTY keyboard, you may find it helpful to follow the column on the right. Unless you are arpeggiating (rolling) your strokes, make sure to press every single key all at once. Remember to release every key after each stroke.

Output Steno Stroke QWERTY Keys
hell HEL r (left index index)
n (right thumb)
o (right ring finger)
o HRO rf (left index finger pressing in between)
v (left thumb)
, -RBGS j (right index finger)
k (right middle finger)
l (right ring finger)
; (right pinkie finger)
world WORLD d (left middle finger)
v (left thumb)
j (right index finger)
o (right ring finger)
[ (right pinkie finger)
. -FPLT u (right index finger)
i (right middle finger)
o (right ring finger)
p (right pinkie finger)

If you see different output, open the paper tape (in Plover’s main window under Tools → Paper Tape) and try the steno strokes again. Verify that the right keys are being registered. If the steno keys shown in the paper tape are not the same as those in the middle column above, first make sure you are pressing the right physical keys. If you are still not getting the right output, have a look at the following:

  • If you are using a steno machine and are not getting the right keys/output, make sure you have set it up correctly.
  • If you are using a QWERTY keyboard and are not getting the right keys/output, your keyboard may not have NKRO. Try rolling or arpeggiating your strokes.
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