Why Book Choice Matters
The right book can halve your learning time. The wrong one can confuse you for months. Here’s a carefully curated list of the most effective shorthand books in 2025.
Essential Pitman Books
1. Pitman’s Shorthand Instructor and Key
The original and still the best. Sir Isaac Pitman’s own textbook covers the complete system systematically. Look for the New Era edition — the most recent revision accepted for Indian exams.
Best for: Complete beginners who want thorough grounding.
2. New Course in Pitman Shorthand
A modern adaptation that presents Pitman’s principles in a more structured, lesson-by-lesson format. Popular in Indian coaching institutes.
Best for: Students who prefer a coursebook format.
3. Pitman Shorthand Phrase Book
After you know the basics, this phrase book is essential. Contains 2,000+ common phrases that dramatically increase speed.
Best for: Intermediate learners stuck at 60–80 WPM.
4. Commercial Correspondence in Pitman Shorthand
Essential for court and secretarial work. Contains business letter formats and formal language in shorthand.
Best for: Aspirants targeting court or administrative posts.
Dictation and Speed Books
5. Progressive Speed Dictation
Graded from 60 to 140 WPM. This is the closest thing to an exam simulator in book form.
Best for: Everyone above 50 WPM.
Available Free on LipiGyaan
Several essential texts are available as free downloads in our books section:
- Pitman Beginners Course
- Advanced Pitman Speed Guide
- Dictation Practice Collection
Our Recommendation
For most aspirants, the sequence is:
- Pitman’s Instructor → learn the complete system
- Phrase Book → add speed through groupings
- Progressive Speed Dictation → exam preparation
Don’t buy too many books. One book done thoroughly beats five books started.