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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<span id="connect-a-compatible-keyboard-or-stenography-machine"></span>
<span id="connect-a-compatible-keyboard-or-stenography-machine"></span>


== Connect a compatible keyboard or stenography machine == <!--T:11-->
== Connect a compatible keyboard or stenography machine == <!--T:11-->


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Steno involves pressing down groups of keys (called “strokes” or “chords) all at once. Standard QWERTY keyboards can usually only recognize one to six simultaneous key presses. 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 learn 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.


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Among other hardware, Plover is compatible with:
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 using the links below:
# '''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]].
* [[#use-a-standard-qwerty-keyboard|Use a standard QWERTY keyboard]]  
# '''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-an-n-key-rollover-nkro-qwerty-keyboard|Use an N-key rollover (NKRO) QWERTY keyboard]]  
# '''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]].
* [[#adapt-a-keyboard-for-steno-use|Adapt a keyboard for steno use]]  
* [[#use-a-machine-designed-for-use-with-plover|Use a machine designed for use with Plover]]
* [[#use-a-professional-stenography-machine|Use a professional stenography machine]]


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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 ===


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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 six simultaneous key presses (and some combinations may only yield two). To work around the lack of NKRO, you have two options: arpeggiate, or roll your strokes.
Initially, Plover is set up to use your computer’s typing keyboard by default. If you are using a regular keyboard, proceed to Enable Plover below. Otherwise, if you have a dedicated steno writer, see the page on [[setting up your writer with Plover]] to connect your hardware to the Plover software.
 
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<span id="arpeggiate"></span>
==== Arpeggiate ====
 
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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 can press fewer keys at a time.
 
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See below for a demonstration of using the arpeggiate function:
[[File:Keyboard-arpeggiate.gif|alt=Demonstration of the arpeggiate function.|center]]
 
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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.
[[File:Plover-arpeggiate-option.png|thumb|center]]
 
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<span id="rolling-your-strokes"></span>
==== Roll your strokes ====
 
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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.
 
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See below for a demonstration of rolling:
 
[[File:Keyboard-roll.gif|None|Thumb|Demonstration of rolling."]]
 
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Regardless of if you roll or arpeggiate your strokes, make sure you [[#confirm-its-working|confirm it’s working]].
 
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<span id="use-an-n-key-rollover-nkro-qwerty-keyboard"></span>
=== Use an N-key rollover (NKRO) QWERTY keyboard ===
 
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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.
 
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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.
 
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Be sure to try the example later in this page to [[#confirm-its-working|confirm it’s working]].
 
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<span id="which-nkro-keyboard-should-i-get"></span>
==== Which NKRO keyboard should I get? ====
 
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We only recommend purchasing an NKRO keyboard if you cannot purchase a dedicated hobbyist writer. NKRO keyboards are less expensive, and also can be used as regular keyboards if you change your mind and decide not to learn steno. 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).
 
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* See: [[using a standard keyboard with Plover]]
 
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<span id="use-a-machine-designed-for-use-with-plover"></span>
=== Use a machine designed for use with Plover ===
 
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Various steno enthusiasts are making and selling writers designed for use with Plover:
 
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* [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]
 
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More information: [[Supported Hardware#Commercially available hobbyist writers|commercially available hobbyist writers]].
 
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<span id="use-a-professional-stenography-machine"></span>
=== Use a professional stenography machine ===
 
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Some professional stenography machines are compatible with Plover. You can find used steno machines on eBay at reasonable prices.
 
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See the [[Supported Hardware]] page for a list of supported professional stenography machines.


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<span id="confirm-its-working"></span>
== Confirm it’s working ==
== Confirm it’s working ==
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Initially, Plover is set up to use your computer’s typing keyboard by default. If you are using a regular keyboard, proceed to Enable Plover below. If you have a dedicated steno writer, see the page on [[setting up your writer with Plover]].


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=== Enable Plover ===
=== Enable Plover ===
Once you have set up your machine with Plover
Once your steno writer is connected with Plover,


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If you are using a QWERTY keyboard, the steno keys are arranged on the layout like so:
On a QWERTY keyboard, the steno keys are arranged on the layout as follows:
[[File:Steno keys on QWERTY keyboard by Jen.png|center|thumb|583x583px|Steno keys on a QWERTY keyboard as understood by Plover.]]
[[File:Steno keys on QWERTY keyboard by Jen.png|center|thumb|583x583px|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 or rolling your strokes, make sure to press every single key all at once. Remember to release every key after each row.
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.


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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 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.
* 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.
* 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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<span id="practice-sentences"></span>
==== Practice sentences ====
 
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You can practice sentences that (mostly) only need two keys at once, on the [https://joshuagrams.github.io/steno-jig/two-key StenoJig] website.
 
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<span id="use-the-correct-body-posture-and-finger-placement"></span>
==== Use the correct body posture and finger placement ====
 
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Your fingers should be curled slightly, so you press the keys using the tips of your fingers.
 
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<div class="figure">
 
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[[File:Steno keys on QWERTY keyboard by Jen.png|alt=Steno keys on a QWERTY keyboard.|center|thumb|704x704px|Steno keys on a QWERTY keyboard.]]


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Read about the proper [[posture and finger placement for stenography]].
</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.
 
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{| 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>
|}
 
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See also:
 
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* [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]


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<span id="practice-and-learn"></span>
<span id="practice-and-learn"></span>
== Practice and learn ==
== Practice and learn ==
''See also: [[Learning stenography]]''


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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]].
Now that you have a working setup, you can start [[learning stenography]]. The best place to start is memorizing the key layout, and [[choosing a steno theory]]. This is the set of rules you need to know in order to convert words to steno strokes. There are a few freely available steno theories each with pros and cons, but the steno community's current recommendation for beginners is [[Lapwing theory]].


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<span id="which-steno-theory-should-you-learn"></span>
<span id="personalizing-your-dictionary"></span>
=== Which steno theory should you learn? ===
== Personalize your dictionary ==


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''See also: [[Personalizing your dictionary]]''
There are many steno theories that encompass the rules you use to convert words to steno strokes.
 
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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.
 
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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.
 
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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].
 
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'''We recommend learning either Plover theory or Lapwing theory.'''
 
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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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<span id="personalizing-your-dictionary></span>
== Personalizing your dictionary ==


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English steno uses dictionaries to translate the keys pressed on a steno machine to the outputted text. These dictionaries are essentially huge files that contain entries for most of the words in the English language and their respective steno strokes.
Once you have learned a decent amount of theory, it is important to customize your steno dictionary. English steno uses dictionaries to translate the keys pressed on a steno machine to the outputted text. These dictionaries are essentially huge files that contain entries for most of the words in the English language and their respective steno strokes. Steno is highly personal, and it is difficult to gain speed by sticking to default mappings. No two stenographers' dictionaries are the same because of how complicated the English language is. Some steno concepts work well for some people, but not for others.
 
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English steno is built on the idea that no two stenographers' dictionaries are ever the same. It is easiest to see this since different theories dictate how to construct steno strokes for a given word. However, even within the same steno theory, there can be multiple valid outlines for one word. For some people, one valid outline may make more sense than another, but for others, it may be the other way around. With different dialects and accents, there can also be multiple valid pronunciations for the same word. More importantly, different people use different word more often than others. Even for a steno stroke that represents a single unambiguous syllable, different people will assign it to different things.
 
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For example, there is no agreed upon translation for the steno stroke <code>SEP</code>. "Sep" is not a word, but there is a [https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/SEP very long disambiguation page on Wikipedia] for this three letter combination. While the default dictionary that comes with Plover maps this to the word "accept", you may find it more helpful as something else.
 
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When starting off with steno, it is okay to be uncomfortable with making your own entries; after all, you might not know the theory rules completely. However, over time, you should be personalizing and tweaking your dictionary to the way that you write. At first, you can start off with little things. For example, you may find it helpful to remap <code>SEP</code>to "September" if you talk about it often. Eventually, however, you may even find yourself disagreeing with a theory rule. It is completely acceptable to add alternative entries and even remove the ones that you don't think are good. Ultimately, the end goal of any stenographer (whether a professional or a hobbyist) is to be comfortable with adapting their dictionary to the way that they write.
 
More information: [[Personalizing your dictionary]].


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[[Category:Plover]]
[[Category:Plover]]
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Latest revision as of 17:25, 12 May 2025

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.

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.

Initially, Plover is set up to use your computer’s typing keyboard by default. If you are using a regular keyboard, proceed to Enable Plover below. Otherwise, if you have a dedicated steno writer, see the page on setting up your writer with Plover to connect your hardware to the Plover software.

Confirm it’s working

Enable Plover

Once your steno writer is connected with Plover,

  1. Run Plover.
  2. In the main window of Plover, set Output to Enabled

Write “Hello World”

To confirm Plover is working correctly, you may try 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 shown below:


On a QWERTY keyboard, the steno keys are arranged on the layout 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.

Read about the proper posture and finger placement for stenography.

Practice and learn

See also: Learning stenography

Now that you have a working setup, you can start learning stenography. The best place to start is memorizing the key layout, and choosing a steno theory. This is the set of rules you need to know in order to convert words to steno strokes. There are a few freely available steno theories each with pros and cons, but the steno community's current recommendation for beginners is Lapwing theory.

Personalize your dictionary

See also: Personalizing your dictionary

Once you have learned a decent amount of theory, it is important to customize your steno dictionary. English steno uses dictionaries to translate the keys pressed on a steno machine to the outputted text. These dictionaries are essentially huge files that contain entries for most of the words in the English language and their respective steno strokes. Steno is highly personal, and it is difficult to gain speed by sticking to default mappings. No two stenographers' dictionaries are the same because of how complicated the English language is. Some steno concepts work well for some people, but not for others.

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