About Our Courses

Beast Mode Theory (enrollment closed)

• primary focus is on phonetics; secondary focus is briefs

• you will learn the basic principles of the IPA as it pertains to the phonetics of English and stenotype and being able to write sounds in steno as opposed to typing words

• realtime-writing concepts are only introduced later in speedbuilding, but still very limited so as not to overwhelm the student and/or impede progress for the sake of writing realtime, which one will not be ready for anyways immediately out of school

• live instruction is available with your teacher, while pre-recorded class instruction is also available

• software training in both Eclipse and Case CATalyst (if you have a different software, let us know and we will get proficient in that too!)

• lessons and testing via exclusive Beast Mode Realtime Coach account

• you will not advance to the next lesson until you have demonstrated proficiency at the current one  (we want you to know what you're doing and feel confident doing it, so we will take our time and work with you on each lesson before pushing you forward -- no rush, no pressure, and no deadlines to meet!)

• assistance in acquiring a steno machine is available upon request, the sooner the better

• assistance in connecting your steno machine to your laptop+software is included and available upon request here

Speedbuilding: 60 wpm through 225 wpm

• Live classes (recorded for asynchronous students) three days a week; pre-recorded classes two days a week

• guided instruction on how to effectively progress in speedbuilding

• homework assignments in five different subjects for speedbuilding:  4 voice, Q&A, jury charge, literary, and medical dictation

• theory reinforcement and briefs/families quizzes

• additional vocabulary/grammar module weekly to prepare you for any written knowledge tests (lessons and quizzes)

• *weekly testing with personalized feedback from our instructors on YOUR writing, and tips/suggestions on what to work on to improve

• weekly progress snapshots

• monthly progress reports

• monthly academic advising appointments with our Lead Instructor to evaluate your progress and goals in your current course

• weekly Zoom drop-in office hours to have access to our instructors for that real-life one-on-one feel, but from the comfort of your own home

• curricula designed to work around your schedule and circumstances

• customized homework and practice schedule for each individual student to maximize the curriculum to its full potential while ensuring you maintain a balanced life

*weekly testing is currently offered for Q&A, jury charge and literary; 4 voice and medical testimony testing are being developed as we speak and we are excited to release the first round of those tests very soon!