Pitman Shorthand Phrasing Rules: 100 Important Phrases for SSC Steno

Phrasing is one of the fastest ways to improve Pitman shorthand speed. When you write two or three common words as one continuous outline, you save pen lifts and reduce hesitation.

For SSC Steno preparation, phrasing matters because administrative English repeats the same word combinations again and again. If these phrases are automatic, your hand gets extra time during dictation.

What is Phrasing in Pitman Shorthand?

Phrasing means writing common word combinations together without lifting the pen. For example, I am, we have, it is, in the and for the can be written faster as joined outlines than as separate words.

The benefit looks small for one phrase, but in a 10-minute dictation there may be more than 150 phrase opportunities. That becomes a major speed advantage.

Basic Rules of Pitman Phrasing

• Phrase only common combinations.
• The phrase must remain readable without confusion.
• The joining must be smooth and natural.
• Use tick the and hook a/an correctly.
• Do not force awkward joins just to save time.

Pronoun Plus Verb Phrases

Preposition Plus Article Phrases

Administrative Phrases for SSC Steno

• I am directed to
• with reference to
• in accordance with
• I have the honour to
• it has been decided
• it is requested that
• in this connection
• in this regard
• with a view to
• for the purpose of
• in order to
• on behalf of
• in respect of
• at the earliest
• in addition to

These phrases are especially useful because SSC dictation often uses formal administrative language. Practice them inside full sentences, not only as isolated outlines.

Verb and Negation Phrases

• has been
• have been
• had been
• will be
• shall be
• would be
• should be
• may be
• must be
• can be
• is not
• are not
• was not
• do not
• does not
• did not
• have not
• will not
• shall not

Time and Frequency Phrases

• at once
• at present
• at the time
• from time to time
• in due course
• at the same time
• for the time being
• in the meantime
• as soon as
• up to date
• in future
• in the past
• as far as
• as well as
• at least

How to Practice These Phrases

• Learn in batches of 10.
• Write each phrase 20 times.
• Use flash cards with English on one side and shorthand on the other.
• Take phrase-only dictation drills.
• Use the phrases in Kailash Chandra passage practice.
• Track how quickly you can write 20 phrases in sequence.

Common Phrasing Mistakes

The biggest mistake is over-phrasing. Students try to join rare word combinations and create unreadable outlines. A phrase is useful only when it is common, smooth and readable.

Another mistake is learning phrases in isolation. You must practice them inside connected dictation so they appear naturally while listening.

Ready to Start?

For daily phrase drills and correction, join the online shorthand batch or ask for guidance.