The 30-Day Challenge
This structured plan assumes zero prior shorthand knowledge and 45–60 minutes of daily practice. Follow it consistently and you will reach 40 WPM by Day 30.
Week 1: Consonants (Days 1–7)
Day 1–2: Learn strokes P, B, T, D
Day 3–4: Learn strokes K, G, M, N
Day 5–6: Learn strokes F, V, TH, TH
Day 7: Revision + write 20 simple words using all strokes
Practice: Write each stroke 50 times. Say the sound aloud as you write.
Week 2: Vowels + First Words (Days 8–14)
Day 8–9: Short vowels A, E, I, O, U
Day 10–11: Long vowels and diphthongs
Day 12–13: Write your first 50 common words
Day 14: Write simple 2-word and 3-word phrases
Practice: Read back what you write without looking at the key.
Week 3: Phrases + Basic Dictation (Days 15–21)
Day 15–16: Learn 20 essential phrases
Day 17–18: Dictation at 20 WPM (ask someone to read, or use recordings)
Day 19–20: Increase dictation to 25–30 WPM
Day 21: Full 5-minute dictation at 20 WPM + transcription
Week 4: Speed Push (Days 22–30)
Day 22–24: Daily 10-minute dictation at 30 WPM
Day 25–27: Push to 35 WPM — write faster, worry less about perfection
Day 28–29: 40 WPM attempt
Day 30: Final test — 5 minutes at 40 WPM, transcribe and check accuracy
Daily Practice Rules
- Practice at the same time every day
- Never skip — even 20 minutes is better than nothing
- Always transcribe your notes after dictation
- Keep a speed log — write your WPM every day
Start with our Introduction to Pitman Shorthand to learn the strokes you’ll need for Week 1.