Student Feels Good about RPR and Credits Club for Her Improvement

Hello!

This is Carly P. from the Magnum Steno Club, and I took the RPR today. I wanted to thank you for your amazing program. I left school in January and have been solely doing your program every day. I also purchased the Magnum steno book...

I exited school when I was only a few months into the 200 level, so I wasn't solid at 200. Well, today at the RPR, thanks to your program, the 225 testimony felt slow and steady and I actually transcribed it and submitted it to be scored. I transcribed the other two legs and am pretty confident [that I passed] at least one of them...

Also, as an aside, [your] beginning phrases (I, you, we, they, he, she) changed my life. Seriously, it's an amazing system.

Thank you so much!

Carly P.

Student Stuck in Qualifiers Nearly 2 Years Passes After 3 Weeks in Magnum Steno Club

Good morning,

I just wanted to let you know that I think your program is AMAZING! I have been in court reporting school for a long time, longer than I probably should have. I have been in qualifying for almost 2 years. I was stuck and almost started to think that I made the wrong choice for a career. I was ready to quit.

I joined the Magnum Steno Club 3 weeks ago. In that short amount of time, I passed my qualifier this past Thursday! I am now going to the July state exam. I credit that to your program. I had tried everything, and your club was the only thing that was able to give me that extra push to get through. With that said, I want to thank you for putting this out there for everyone. I think it is an amazing club to be a part of!

1. I like that the videos are short but just enough practice before starting to lose interest.

2. I like that you give us about 20 new briefs every day and they pertain to the dictation for the day.

3. I enjoy that you are personable. You make us feel like you are directly talking to us.

4. I love how we can e-mail you any question and you respond very quickly and with the perfect answer.

5. I love all the instructional videos.

6. I love that each video you read at a high speed and then it has a slow-down. It makes the slow-down seem slower than it actually is.

Thank you so much, Mark,

Elizabeth M.

Reporter Discovers She Has OCBD - Obsessive/Compulsive Brief Disorder

Hi, Mark,

I have been reporting for a very long time and write out way, way too much. Although I am very successful and requested very often on jobs, I am exhausted at the end of the day.

Since joining the club just a few weeks ago, I have developed a severe case of OCBD, obsessive/compulsive brief disorder. When people talk to me, I'm beginning to hear in briefs. I see words in magazines and books, I'm beginning to see in briefs. And so on. What I've picked up on the way to work, I quickly stroke before the job has begun and global them into my dictionary.

In a short time, with intensive practice, I have come a long way. I love this disease and I do not want to be cured. Can't begin to thank you for what you have done for me in this profession...

I know a lot of freelance reporters don't like to practice literary takes and just do Q&A, but I have found the literary and the Q&A combo takes that you do daily to be such a blessing. I do a lot of expert witness testimony and their answers can go on for two pages sometimes without a question. Since doing the literary and the Q&A every day, my concentration has improved tremendously and their long-winded answers are not as challenging as they were just a couple of months ago. That has translated into a calmer and more confident me!

You have made a difference in my career, which I truly love, and like you, hope to never have to "retire" from.

Jean Wilm, Registered Professional Reporter,Certified Manager of Reporting Services

CR School Graduate Loves MS Club and Gains Skill and Confidence

Mark,

I just wanted to take the time to thank you for the dedication and service you are providing to the court reporting field. I attended the ILCRA convention in September and thought you did a wonderful job.

After graduating from school I was no longer able to use the free dictation sites that the school provided for us. I had been working from my aunt's old audio cassettes and some material I had purchased from NCRA. The material was helpful, but, after taking and not passing the CSR two times in a row, I knew I had to make a change in my practicing habits. That's when I decided to try out your website.

I believe that even in the past three weeks that I have been using your website I have become a better reporter. After practicing at high speeds, moving down to a 225 seems much easier. I also cannot thank you enough for the encouragement and inspiration you provide. I have definitely needed that after my attempts at the CSR...

Thank you again for providing me with such a wonderful site to practice. I truly have confidence that utilizing your methods will provide me with the skills and knowledge I need to pass the CSR in April.

Sincerely,

Lisa Hafliger

Student Tries Out, and Loves, Magnum Steno Club and Mark's Online Academy

Good morning, Mark,

...As you know, I took advantage of the one week free trial of the Magnum Steno Club, and I thoroughly enjoyed it. I went through 38 instructional videos in three days, not to mention the Briefs 001, 002 etc. I could not get enough! The video "Seabiscuit" jerked me around a little. I cried through the whole thing, I think. But, I get the moral of the story in relation to court reporting: a trainer, a owner, a jockey, and a heart of a champion. I understand it.

Also, I contacted your school secretary and asked several questions, in return she gave me a trial access to the school site [www.mkcourtrepoting.com]. I have been soaking it up like a sponge. I absolutely cannot get enough fast enough! I did three theory 1 first-hour classes in one day, (and more since then) took notes, d-defined, and practiced. Since I do have some background already, I can move through it pretty fast, I get it, and it sticks. I love that you teach the phrases right off the bat to the beginning theory students, then they learn to listen for those as one words right from the beginning...

I have enjoyed all of the classes that I have accessed in your school. It is my desire to be a student of Mark Kislingbury. I am currently working on a strategy to accomplish this goal...

Thank you for your time. I hope you have a wonderful day.

Lisa Shepherd

Student Switches to Mark's School and Theory and Loves It

Mark,

Thank you for making Steno fun!

I have learned so much already from the MSC videos and the Magnum Steno book, not to mention all your great stories (I'm still laughing about Deposition Chess)... After some soul searching, I decided to divorce [well-known stroke-intensive theory] (for the most part), and I have switched from [well-known CAT software] to digitalCat. And I'm having fun working to improve my writing. I have [your] Words Generator too. (I was so overwhelmed at first, almost everything was a brief I didn't know, but not anymore.)

You may remember, I withdrew from [an Eastern court reporting school] at the end of September; I was writing about 140 then. Don't know where I am now because I'm in total immersion, but will began testing myself again soon. Incidentally, my friend from [that school], Angela H., is now a MSC member. She said this quarter, [the Eastern CR school] has switched from teaching Phoenix to Sten-Ed. It's not [Magnum Steno], but I suppose it's an improvement...

I love seeing your steno notes [in your Club videos] - whether contest notes or live - and I realized that in two years of attending [that CR school] (online and in house) I have only ever seen anyone else's writing when I took online classes. In house, it was sort of taboo to look at anyone else's notes, and teachers NEVER wrote for students. What a shame! I have learned so much about your theory from seeing your notes. I now believe that I can write fast - I never did before. The logic of finding a way to use available keys or to think in terms of shape - well, those concepts weren't even on the radar at [my former school]. I love the way you teach and the logic behind it. Thank you for sharing your passion.

Most sincerely,

Leslie C.

Student Credits Magnum Steno Club with Helping Her Graduate from School

Hi, Mark:

I just passed my final speed test as a court reporting student.

I just want to thank you for you amazing wisdom and honesty in your videos! I could not have made such amazing progress without the Magnum Steno Club. I truly believe that you are saving this profession, and I am so grateful for that. God bless you and your family, and have a wonderful Christmas.

Jessica Croxford

Reporter Credits Magnum Steno Club with Helping Her Master Difficult Medical Meeting

Hi, Mark:

Every 3 months for the last 2 years, I've been reporting a very large meeting of doctors here in the Chicago area. The first time I did it, it was nearly impossible to report, but I kept at it simply because it was so hard that I didn't want to subject the other reporters in my office to it. It took me a month to complete the transcript, which is usually close to 400 pages.

But this meeting has been the best indicator of my progress in changing my writing with the MSC [Magnum Steno Club]. Not only have I been shortening my writing, but I've been learning to create more briefs on the fly, something I've struggled with.

I can definitely say this last meeting was still very hard, but now I get most of it perfectly and it's almost enjoyable. One guy was so fast that my strokes per second on the Lightspeed went up to 8.1 (!!), which was a record for me.

Shortening the large 3-syllable words has been the key, and this job really highlights that because it is almost like a 10-hour literary. Not only is it easier to take down, but the transcript is even enjoyable to work on now and I can finish it much faster, which means more $$ for me in less hours. I am pretty sure with my old way of writing that I would have eventually given up reporting this meeting because it was just too hard, thus cutting off a stream of income that is a sure thing every 3 months. Now I don't have to do that.

Thank you again!!!

Lisa H. Breiter, CSR, RPR, CRR

Official Loves Club on Free Trial and Will Use It to Train for RMR

Hi, Mark!

I wanted to share with you that I used your free trial, and appreciate your providing it! Thank you for creating the site. Your videos are extremely helpful.

I have freelanced in this industry for 15 years. I have recently become an official.

Somehow, you know you are not alone, but sometimes you feel you are when you just can't put your finger on what you need to improve.

You had me pegged! I am a perfect/drop reporter.

Thank you for being well versed in explaining yourself and your videos. I will be purchasing and practicing the drills on your site in hopes of passing the RMR.

Thank you for caring so much about the industry!

Elizabeth

Student Surprised to Find Wealth of Information and Optimism in Magnum Steno Club

Hi Mark,

I know you enjoy receiving feedback from your members, so I thought I would take a minute to let you know how absolutely lost I would have been these last three months without the Magnum Steno Club.

As you might remember, I switched schools and had to wait three months to start at my new school. When I found your club, I thought it would just be a good place to go for practice dictation. Little did I know that I would learn more in those three months than I had learned in years prior at my last two schools. Not only that, but the continuous supply of support, motivation, and encouragement have been exactly what I needed! You are always so positive and happy, and that helps me stay that way, as I'm sure it does for all your members.

I am looking forward to starting school again next week, and this will be my LAST school; however, I plan to continue to be a member of your club now, while I'm in school, and after I graduate.

Thanks again, Mark, for everything.

Lisa Brinton

Magnum Steno Reporter Passes Realtime Certs and Qualifies in Speed Contest

Mark,

I met you briefly at award luncheon on Saturday (Aug 11, 12). Just wanted to let you know, and to follow up, that I had used your Magnum Steno. It's been over a year now since. But with your help, I was able to pass the CRR, I passed the CRCR (Jersey) with no errors and only person to pass at that particular testing.

Most recently, I just qualified at the National Speed Competition on two out of the three legs. The third, I missed by ONE error!! (I checked my paper after awards.) Just thought it's nice to get positive feedback. While I don't use your theory, in particular, I found your briefs most helpful and I totally get the concept of the shorter and less strokes and incorporate that into my daily writing. Feel free to use this email however you think it may benefit you and others!

Thank you and hope you keep up your good work!

Maureen McCarthy, RPR, RMR, CRCR (Jersey), CRR Official Court Reporter (Philadelphia)

Reporter Sees "Huge Improvement" Magnum Steno Club for RPR Success

I just wanted to let you know that after being in the Magnum Steno Club since, I think, December, I am seeing a huge improvement in my writing. I went to a terrible court reporting school and after I graduated, I was struggling on jobs to keep up and my notes were a mess. I thought I would give the Magnum Steno Club a try, because I knew I had to do something if I was going to stay in this profession. My notes are getting much better and I am spending much less time on my transcripts. Thank you so much! I still have a long way to go, but I am so happy with my progress.

Jeanne Meldrim

Reporter Credits Magnum Steno Club for RPR Success

Hi Mark,

I just wanted to drop you a quick note to let you know I passed the RPR in May. Yay! I received the final confirmation last week in the mail and saw my name listed on the NCRA website. What a great feeling! I could not have done this without the Magnum Steno Club and your amazing advice and motivation. Thank you so much for all that you do.

Best,

Kim Harrison

Student Discovers Magnum Steno Club and Sees Immediate Results

Dear Mark,

On Saturday, I watched the instructional vidoes down to "Mark's Brain is Different." I also tried out one of the high-speed dictations from the archieve just to see what they are like. Blew me away pretty much. But I took to heart dropping my filters, staying on top of the dictator and getting something for everything. Sunday I practiced for about 1-1/2 hours at no lower than 160, usually closer to 180, but in about 15-minute increments. Then Monday, I also practiced for about an hour, but again, no longer than 15-20 minutes at a time. I also went through the first 2 brief vidoes and just browsed through the site.

Well, last night's class was very different that all the other classes. My teacher made a comment about how seamless and quick my readback was. He wondered why I am still in his class, me too! Well, we test every night. I test for 5 minutes at 140 WPM. I felt I stayed with the speaker but just was not sure how I did. I don't know if I passed yet, we grade them the next night. BUT, I always do a word count. So, at 140, I needed 700 words. If I don't have at least 680 words, I usually don't scour through the document and turn it in for 'credit only.' WELL, when I did the word count, I had exactly 700 words!!!! I am not sure if they are the correct 700 words, but I am so happy that I stayed with the dictator and got something for everything spoken!

Hope I'm not being a pest, but I am so happy and excited. After just 3 days with Magnum Steno, I am amazed at the advances I have made already. I will sign up and make the commitment to sign on every day and be a permanent member of Magnum Steno on Friday. Please feel free to share this. Bless you! Also, thank you for sharing your gifts with other court reporters. I know I greatly appreciate this blessing already!

Cynthia F.

160s Student Learns from Mark's Seminar and Magnum Steno Club and Graduates Little Over Year Later

Hi, Mark,

I've been wanting to write this for some time, just got busy with graduation and beginning my new career as a CART provider. So here goes!

I went to a seminar where Mark was speaking when I was a student just at 160. I was very impressed with Mark and wondered why the schools did not incorporate this "writing short" concept, because it is amazing! I started with listening to his instructional videos and incorporating the word endings (ed, ing, es, s, etc) into my writing.

When I had mastered that, I started the Briefs 101 videos. They are wonderful! Then I would incorporate more concepts as I went along.

Needless to say, a little over a year later I passed that final 225 and graduated school. I truly believe I could not have done that without this concept of writing short.

To this day, I am still incorporating more of Mark's theory and concepts into my writing, and I use his book every week. Mark is very helpful and encouraging. He wants everyone to do well and to be better writers. Mark honestly has a gift, and he wants to share it with no ulterior motives. Mark and his website are truly a godsend, and I encourage anyone wanting to improve their writing to give Magnum Steno Club a try.

If you are a beginning student, I urge you to contact Mark about his school. Learning Mark's concept of writing short and at high speeds definitely helped me graduate sooner and is continuing to make me a better writer.

Thank you so much, Mark, and keep up the good work!

Sincerely,

Ginger B.

Club Member Passes RMR With Flying Colors

Last year I wrote a testimonial for Mark after re-attaining my RPR and then passing the CRR, thanks to the Magnum Steno Club. Now I have more to be thankful for - I passed all three legs of the May 2012 RMR exam (because of NCRA longevity rules, I won't officially be an RMR until January of 2013).

I've been thinking about how to define precisely how the Magnum Steno Club has benefited me. The daily speed dictations are of course a large part of it. So are the briefing videos and the briefing advice given on the dictation videos, which combined with the Magnum Steno Book have allowed me to systematically shorten my writing. Additionally, Mark was kind enough to send me his dictionary file. I merged it with my personal dictionary, so that when I'm on the job, CaseCatalyst's Brief-It feature will prompt me with Mark's briefs when I write a word in more than one stroke.

But I think the biggest benefit for me has been Mark's emphasis on daily speed practice for working reporters, and on the importance of writing short. These two concepts were wholly foreign to me for much of my reporting career. I thought that once I started working and had passed the RPR, I would never need to do speed practice again. And it never occurred to me to learn a lot of briefs; it always seemed unnecessary to learn a brief just to save one or two strokes on a specific word. Of course I was missing the macro perspective - by learning briefs for thousands of common words, you will write significantly fewer strokes throughout the day, with all the advantages that brings (avoiding physical wear-and-tear, making it easier to keep up, less time spent editing, etc.).

Mark is truly a pioneer and a visionary in the field of court reporting education. While I'm delighted with the progress I've made and the tests I've passed, it's also frustrating to imagine how much easier reporting would have been for me if I had learned his methods from the beginning rather than more than two decades after starting work as a reporter. I envy those students who have an opportunity to learn it the right way from the beginning.

If you're a student or are considering becoming a student, the best thing you can do for yourself is to study with Mark or with a program that utilizes Mark's methods. It will put you light years ahead of students who learn from other methods.

If you're a working reporter, the best thing you can do for yourself is to join the Magnum Steno Club, do the daily dictations, and put in the effort to shorten your writing. It does take a certain amount of time and effort (a manageable amount, though). In return, your skill level, ability to attain certifications, and your experience on the job will improve dramatically.

Lee Bursten, CRR, RMR (as of 1/1/13)

[Note from Mark: Lee's scores were fantastic: Lit: 99.900% (one error); JC: 99.667% (4 errors); QA: 98.000% (26 errors)]

Reporter Follows Mark's Briefing, Practicing, Stay-on-Speaker Advice and Notices Huge Improvement

Mark,

First off, I just want to thank you for encouraging us to practice again. I have been reporting for 20 years now and I would never practice. I stroked out a lot of words that I used to brief. I don't even know why I started doing that, but I did. I was laid off from my freelance job last April, and I was hired into the Common Pleas Court as an official.

On top of adjusting to a full-time fixed schedule, the judge that I work for speaks faster than anyone I have EVER reported in my career, adding onto that that we are in a beautiful 1800s courtroom with horrible acoustics, and needless to say I was hopeless in my job. I was dropping, absolutely could not keep up and just felt like I was dying every day I came to work. However, I had been praying so hard about what I was to do. I was thankful for a job, felt like this is where God wanted me to be, but struggled horribly every day I was at work.

When I went to the Ohio Court Reporters Association spring seminar, I was so glad that you were speaking. I have been practicing and using your tips. I forgot how to fight for every stroke, to stay on top of the speaker, to learn new briefs and to practice. After a week of incorporating these things into my life, WOW, what a difference! Briefs are coming back to me that I used years ago, things are getting so much better!

I thank God for you and that you were at that seminar and reminded us to work on our skill. Now I feel like not only can I survive here, but I can thrive in my job and be an excellent reporter.

Once again, thank you so much, and may God richly bless you:)

Carolyn D. Ross, RPR

RMR/CRR Reporter Sees Improvement on the Job with Club

Hi, Mark,

I just want to tell you how much I'm enjoying the Magnum Steno Club and having fresh speed building dictation every day. I have my RMR and CRR, but I can tell that I'm getting better and faster and sharper with my writing doing just like you say, working on more briefs and phrasing than what I was already using and just the high-speed dictation.

Yesterday is when I could see how I have improved. In court, I had a very fast doctor on the stand with multisyllabic medical terms, most of which I did not have a brief for. So because I was phrasing other things, I had time to come up with one-stroke briefs for many of these terms and get something down for everything without hesitation. When the doctor asked me if he was going too fast, I was able to say no (even though I was barely hanging on and would have LOVED for him to slow down).

But also, I've been meaning to write to tell you how I love your demeanor and how encouraging you are on your dictations and the extra trivia-type information you give. it's a really good and positive way to start the day, not to mention you remind me a lot of my brother!

Janet Taylor

Reporter Improves Speed, Accuracy, and Determination in Club

Mark,

I just want to quickly thank you for your wonderful recordings. I don't hear you speak of them often on your daily recordings, but I love to go back and listen to your "Mark Speed Method" ones. It's a good refresher of not only what your method is, but a good refresher of the "why" of your method and other great points. I also listen to the sections of Test Week over and over again regardless of how close I am to testing. And, yes, I listen to the other ones too.

Thank you, thank you, thank you, Mark. I cannot adequately express how much your words of wisdom mingled with your many words of encouragement and faith in God have helped me improve my speed, accuracy, and determination.

Mary G.

200s Student Discovers Magnum Steno, Shortens Writing, Passes Qualifiers, Straight to CART Realtime

Mark,

I thought I would also share my experience with everyone as well since I am yet another testimony to your shorthand concept that really turned my writing around; in turn, making that graduation date come much faster than it would have otherwise.

I did not have knowledge of Magnum Steno until I was in my 200s. It was at that time that I joined the Magnum Steno club and started adopting a shorter way of writing. After dictionary building for 4.5 years at that point, you could say it was a bit of a temporary setback. I not only started practicing this shorter way of writing, but then changed and added and edited my dictionary to coincide with my new briefs and phrases.

Another thing I started doing, and it was a VERY short time before I started to see a Significant improvement, was writing REALTIME. After about three months, I was back in the game but this time with a new lease on my work product. I would say another two or three months after this I passed my first qualifier. I passed six more, nearly all back-to-back following my first pass.

Getting my dictionary up-to-par combined with shortening my writing and watching my screen as it was tranning then gave me the confidence it took to become a captioner at a junior college (for hearing-impaired students) for the last 8 months of my schooling. Everything was tranning beautifully and I was Oh, so proud of my work and committment. The short setback was worth its weight in Gold and I can't tell you how proud I was of myself for making that leap and stepping outside of my comfort zone.

I regret I hadn't heard about you sooner. You could have saved me thousands in student loans because that way of writing would have saved me at least ... LEAST 2-3 years in school. Thanks to your help and encouragement and MOST of all, your "theory" of writing shorter, I am another success story.

It paid off, and it paid off BIGTIME.

Thank you, Mark, for all of your efforts and time and energy you put into shedding light on how to most effectively reach our goals.

I look forward to speaking with you again soon.

Tiffany Billingsly, CRI

Golden State College of Court Reporting & Captioning

Student Passes Final Test, Qualifies for CSR, Credits Magnum Steno Club

Mark,

Just wanted to let you know that I passed my final test at school yesterday and will be sitting for the CSR in June. I do believe that your advice and my focusing on MS phrasing every day last week on our quarter break was the driving force that pushed me over the top.

Fortunately I'll have about four months to really hammer down those phrasing concepts so that they are automatic for me at 200 and higher. Thanks again. See you in Monterey.

Mikey McMorran

Burned-Out Reporter Now Loves Reporting and CART After Mark's Training

Mark,

First I would like to share with you that since I've adopted your theory - and that wasn't easy to change after eight years as a freelance reporter with the longest EVER theory - I fell in love with my work as a court reporter. I did pass the RPR after your boot camp and am now doing realtime whenever possible.

I also did a few CART jobs for a hard-of-hearing DA in USDC here in Brooklyn where I live. Donna Clark, who I met in Texas at boot camp, has a captioning company and has contacted me to cover this job at USDC. And guess what? I LOVE IT. I LOVE CART. To me it's like no homework by not scoping.

So.... now that I am turning 51 years old, I am thinking ahead when I'll get older. I don't see myself wanting to run all over Manhattan to cover jobs - it's tiring for me even now - so I'm gearing up to be able to work as a Broadcast Captioner or CART provider and/or anything remote writing. I would love to retire somewhere rural; I love the mountains, so I am dreaming of being able to work remote from wherever I choose to eventually move to.

I do practice speed, and I feel quite ready to take the RMR in May. I should be able to pass some, too. I also try to do every day about 15 minutes of CNN news...

You are my idol. Really without your theory of short writing I would have probably always thought of my job as just a job to pay the bills and not have loved my job as I do now and taken such pride in it. I mostly felt very isolated, lost and alone struggling to be a better writer but had no idea how to go about it.

Your direction of mastering steno writing has given me a path that I keep seeing results. My work on the realtime screen is clean and perfect. At this point I am trying to master your theory for numbers. The way I was taught in school was to not ever use the number keys but to always write out all the numbers. Can you imagine? Gosh. That school should be closed down.

Goldy Gold, RPR

Another Student Club Member Passes RPR

Hi Mark,

I just nervously opened my mail today from the NCRA and I PASSED all three tests!! I am so excited and relieved. I really have to thank you because you were a very big part of my passing.

I was so down on myself a month before the test, and I wasn't passing any of my school's tests, which made me feel worse. I went on an internship around that time with a working court reporter and I was telling her my troubles. She mentioned that a friend of hers was a member of the Magnum Steno Club and maybe I should give it a try.

Well, about a week later I Googled your name, and up came your website, and I did the free trial week. Well, I've been hooked ever since.

I actually enjoyed practicing again. The icing on the cake was your boot camp in November, where I know for sure my speed went up. That was great, but the thing you did for me was boost my confidence. After boot camp I went into that test and nailed it. I can't thank you enough!!!

I am proudly a member of your club, and I look forward to it every day. The only thing I need to do now is pass the written exam in January, and I will be "Maureen Revie, RPR."

You are greatly appreciated!

Sincerely,

Maureen Revie

Club Member Passes RPR

Dear Mark,

With the help of the Magnum Steno Club I've passed the RPR!!

I really feel as though practicing with you every day has helped me immensely. I have learned many new writing concepts that have helped me shorten my writing. Having written a stroke-intensive theory for many years, it was very difficult to break that habit. I still have a lot more work to do, but I know that I can do it.

The high speed practice has been so beneficial for me. It not only gives you the finger speed needed, but it also trains you to hear and process the information faster. In the beginning I could barely hear and process the dictation. It's truly amazing how far I've come.

Also, thank you for your words of encouragement. I'm ready to start working on another certification.

Rosita DeCarlo, RPR

Write-It-Out Mother Finally Emulates Short-Writing Daughter's Success. Sees Progress After Joining MSC

Mark,

As you know, my daughter Candice started CR school right when I attained my CSR in 2005. I had heard about your theory but, unfortunately, never really checked into it; so I sent Candice to a school that taught a very stroke-intensive theory. Luckily, she met a friend in school who had learned your theory [Clay Frazier], and she witnessed how fast he progressed; so she started incorporating your theory.

After seeing her progress at an alarming rate, I asked her how she was doing it. I'll admit, when she told me about your theory, the concepts, the memorization, I didn't want to even hear it because my brain was so used to writing by sound and being able to read my steno notes phonetically. I knew -- or I should say "I thought" -- my brain wouldn't be able to memorize all those concepts and briefs. [Ed. note: Both Candice and Clay breezed through school and scored high 99 percents on the California CSR while striving to write short.]

Time went on, and as I was in my first years of reporting, I witnessed Candice fly through speed tests, pass the qualifier within the first week of being in qualifiers, pass the CSR on the first try with 6 errors, and then shortly thereafter pass the RPR. Her notes were beautiful, hardly any untrans and of course she got every word. She wasn't afraid to take doctors, experts etc. during her first year.

Her excellence made me feel like I shouldn't even be reporting. I had untrans everywhere and each job was a struggle and workout. Candice finally encouraged me to just try your concepts. I looked at her Stenomaster book and became very overwhelmed and gave it back to her.

Time still went on, haha, and I was seriously feeling like a CR failure. Candice, again, told me just to try your theory by incorporating endings into the first stroke, i.e., tucking the -R for -er and the -G for -ing. That came pretty easy, so I continued to learn more of your concepts. After about six months, when I wrote a stroke, if I had an extra finger I used it on the first stroke no matter where it was. My brain was finally starting to think the way your theory works.

Candice encouraged me to join the MS club, which I did back in March. Every day, along with the daily video, I would do an instructional video, as well as the Briefs videos. After a few weeks of your daily encouraging words and noticing how the high speed practice was helping me on the job, I thought I might just have a chance at passing the RPR, something I had in the same category with going to the moon. I had taken it over four times in the past, and they always had stopped grading. I had given up on trying to pass it.

I took the August RPR, and I was thrilled when I only missed the Lit by 12. I was really amazed at how calm I felt, how slow it sounded, and how your MS Club really did work. Your club has given me confidence again, and I continue daily to shorten my writing. I really have no idea how I ever passed the CSR writing everything out the way I did. The MS Club is something I look forward to every day, and it's actually really fun. I love going to my jobs now to see how much progress I've made.

I am so thankful for you and all the time you spend giving to us CRs, sharing your knowledge, passion, and love of court reporting so we can be the best. THANK YOU! THANK YOU! THANK YOU!

Wendy Andino

Student Passes Three Speed Tests After Joining Club

Mark,

I just wanted to tell you that I have been a member of Magnum Steno for only a few months and I have passed 3 speed tests! I passed a 170 Lit, a 170 2 voice, and now today a 180 2 voice. It was taking me months to pass ONE test before I joined. I just wanted to say thanks and you're a GENIUS!!!

Lifetime member,

Heather Moore

Reporter Raves About Boot Camp and New Love and Excitement for Reporting

Hi Mark,

Wow! That's how I feel right now! I just finished the boot camp last week and couldn't believe how hard I worked. It was so much more than I expected. My arms were sore the first few days, but by the end of the week, no soreness! I couldn't wait until Monday so I could take a depo and use some of this awesome training! But of course, my job cancelled as I was pulling out of my driveway. :(

I came home and practiced some more briefs!!! I can't get enough. I called my colleague at work and couldn't stop gushing about all the great briefs I had learned in boot camp. I was sharing with her the "try to" family of briefs and just wouldn't shut up when she finally said, "Debby, I have to go!" Oops! I just can't help myself. I feel like they need to know this too!

Finally, I got a job on Tuesday morning. A simple car accident, but that's okay, I'll try all my small word phrases that I have a hard time incorporating into my high-speed practice. It was AMAZING!!!! I felt like I was in a dream. How could my writing be so much better? I was smiling and wanted to tell the attorney, "Hey, hey, look! I just briefed 'trying to' in one stroke! I just learned that last week."

Don't worry, I refrained. I just kept writing and concentrating on briefing. I really can't believe how much more I loved working today.

Thank you so much for renewing my excitement for court reporting after 18 years of doing this! I am going to pass the next test in May! I want my RMR and my CRR! Thank you for sharing your gift of shortening your writing. It has been a true blessing in my life! And it's contagious.....my colleague said, "Oh, you make me want to go home and practice." It's so much fun!

Thank you so very much!

Debby Bonds, RPR and OR-CSR, and soon-to-be CRR and RMR!

Reporter Shortens Writing and Gains New Love for Court Reporting

I just have to drop a note about my dictionary. I started Magnum Steno April of this year. My dictionary has gone from 180,000 down to 130,000 words, not exaggerating. It's from deleting all the multi-stroke mistroke entries and replacing them with the writing short theory.

[Mark responded: Wow! Didn't you want to keep them just in case when it gets fast you might sometimes revert to writing out?]

[She responded:] Scary, right? I'm now a one-stroke addict and can't be stopped. Sometimes I would have like 50 to 70 mistrokes for one word! I can't believe I was writing like that. I only delete the ones that I know I have in memory. If I do write out a word on accident, it just comes out as an untranslate, which makes it stick that much more in my soggy brain.

Thank you, Mark. I have a newfound love for court reporting.

Tillie

Student Advances in Speed, Loves Magnum Steno Club and Mark's Online School

Mark,

I would just like you to know that I have just moved up to the 200 class. Final class in my school, we need 11 tests to be done: 4 at 180, 4 at 200 and 3 at 225. I would like to thank you!!!

I love my online class, although I mostly have to watch the videos, and my Magnum Steno Club, I would not be there without you.

I love, love, love writing short, and I sit with people who are going on their third semester in that class. Why? Because they write everything out. I would imagine it is going to take them quite a while. I am going to start interning soon. I can't wait.

Thanks again!! See you in class.

Susan

Student Credits Magnum Steno Club for Graduating from School

Hi Mark,

I've been a member of the Magnum Steno Club for probably a year now.

I'm writing to you to thank you for your words of encouragement to the members of the club. Your advice has helped me push through school, too. I graduated today! Passed the last test needed.

I'm not sure how I would have gotten through school without watching your videos!

Take care,

Christina E.

BBC Captioner Becomes Brief Convert with Magnum Steno Book and Club Videos

Hi, Mark,

I really am enjoying your vidoes and book. And I now agree - "it's best not to have too many shortforms in captioning" is a myth! I used to be so precious about not having too many ghastly short forms in my pristine captioning dictionary. I trained at the BBC, and I'll always be grateful for being trained in fingerspelling, punctuating on the fly - opening and closing quotes, hyphenating etc - and being very sophisticated with prefixes and suffixes. I felt like the luckiest girl in the world to have such a clean dictionary. But how ridiculous that I would write "temporary" in three strokes!

I was overwhelmed when I first got your book. It was simply daunting. So I started off with something that just made sense. And the "squeezing the R" was where I started - longer, stranger, bigger. Just crazy that I wasn't doing it already! Then I went to longest, strangest, biggest etc. I really like the FAORD for afford and SAORT for assort. I can't believe how little of the steno keyboard's potential I use. Crazy! And exhausting!

The videos are so positive, and have truly helped with my speed. I think speed development for me has been about being comfortable with being uncomfortable when writing - being comfortable with not being so in control of writing. No pain and discomfort, not gain. I've just enjoyed it so much, and thanks for sharing your passion for writing.

Alannah

Experienced Reporter Finding Club Gives Speed, Endurance, Confidence, Relaxation, and Joy

Hi, Mark

I just wanted to let you know how well your Magnum Steno Club works for me. I have been a reporter for 31 years now, and for the last 6 years, I have been an official reporter. After practicing with you almost every day and practicing my briefs every day, even on vacation, I can now write all day in court and am not tired...at all!

Last Monday, we had a jury trial. We picked a jury, had opening arguments and then testimony until 5:00. I wrote 300 pages for that day. And both attorneys spoke really fast. The defense attorney spoke so fast, I couldn't understand him sometimes, but still I wrote "something." No matter how fast, I kept my hands calm and rhythmic. I tried as best I could to use my bazillion phrases and briefs that I had picked up over the last year or so. I walked out of that court feeling like I could write for another 7 hours. It was an amazing feeling, one I had never felt before.

So, thank you for all your work in helping us all have a better life as a reporter. Reporting is still tough sometimes, but I feel so much more competent and relaxed. Reporting has always been fun, but now it is pure joy.

Thank you!

Cecilia Vohl

Student Has Positive Attitude and is on Right Track

Mark,

I have every bit of confidence it takes to pass. As long as I have God, you, your club, your suggestions, me and my positive attitude and my determination to follow your suggestions. I believe I was put here in this situation for a reason and so far I have benefited more from your club in 2 months than I have in 4 yrs at that school. So yes, I agree with you, I do have all the tools I need...

I also wanted to mention, Mark, this school never once looked at why I was not passing my Qualifier. It took a friend of mine to suggest I look to your site for help. As it turned out, when you mentioned "write short" I knew writing the word "nervous" in three strokes was my trouble. Amazingly I was [still] able to keep up [anyway]. You can imagine how many other words and phrases I don't do. I don't need to go any further. I've just begun writing short now. About 3 months' worth.

Like you have said, you enjoy writing more when you use briefs. I feel the same way. Nor do I feel hand and wrist pain anymore.

I really appreciate your offering to figure out why I am not passing the RPR...

Thank you so much. Once again I shall go back over every inch of your site to take on your advice to where it's all second nature to me. (Now that I have the briefing down, it's really my mental mindsets that keep me from being at my best)

Thank you, Coach Mark.

Christen Potts

Reporter Inspired by "Mark's Brain is Different" Video in Club

Mr. Kislingbury,

Thank you for your video "Mark's brain is different"!

This video made a huge impact on me this morning. I think that although I believed from day one your methods and approach to success in steno writing are superior, I have always believed you, Mark Kislingbury, speed champion, are just different, innately different than I, and that you have some advantage I can never really have.

I know well from previous life experience that hard work and perseverance pays off and that natural talent alone doesn't always lead to success. I've always been an extremely hard worker in everything I do, but something about mastering steno machine writing has left me feeling inadequate and frustrated. I know hard work is the only thing that helped me graduate court reporting school two and a half years ago, but I think I have always secretly believed I could never really master the machine since I'm not a "naturally talented" writer like other reporters I know.

You really spoke to me through this video. Thank you for being so direct and speaking with such clarity. You explained that focused, daily, high-speed practice and focused, daily study of brief forms are the real keys to your success in machine writing. To hear you say this was like receiving a gift! Hearing and understanding this helps me believe in myself, the hard worker, again, and realize those same practices will also be the keys to success in my work to become a better writer and pass the RPR. So my next set of goals are actually achievable for me, not just for the speedy-fingered "phenoms" and "natural writers." What a relief and much-needed inspiration!

Thank you for all you do to inspire, motivate, and teach me.

Allison Gossett

Experienced Official Reporter Loves Boot Camp and Feels She Improved Greatly

Dear Mark:

I want to let you know once again how much I thoroughly enjoyed the boot camp experience. I feel as though I have improved as a court reporting professional a hundred times over.

At the end of class yesterday you asked me about the difference between the Magnum Steno Club and the boot camp. My initial response was that you reinforced for us the same tools in boot camp as you did MSC. However, I want to elaborate on that. The boot camp experience is obviously much more intense. One result of that is that I have come away from these past few days with those thoughts replaying in my head stronger than ever: Stay on the speaker, get a stroke for everything, give 100 percent, just to name a few. So, though you do say those things in our daily practice with MSC, I think I can finally integrate those tools into my everyday thinking and utilize them to empower me to be the best reporter that I can be. I can sense a difference in my thinking already. As I was making breakfast this morning, Mark-isms were running through my brain. Oh, no! You've invaded!

An added bonus that I could not possibly anticipate was the amazing energy and camaraderie of the entire group. I spoke with many of the participants and thoroughly enjoyed each of them. I loved how unique every one of them are. I loved their stories of how they became court reporters as well as the students who are striving to become the best they can be. Most of all I am feeling truly blessed to be with reporters who all want to be excellent.

The biggest take-away for you, Mark, is that you are the one who has created and is constantly improving upon the most efficient and effective teaching methods for our profession. In addition, all of us come together to be with you to benefit from your teaching and our learning from one another. What could be better than that?

Have a wonderful weekend. Did I tell you I've scheduled a sub for the next boot camp?

God bless you and your family and your school and your students and Gromit and...

Carrie Logan

Student Working on 200wpm Digs Many Gold Nuggets out of Club

Mark,

Wonderful. Your instructional videos entitled Test Day 1-5 are fantastic. I really think you're right, I'd benefit from visualizing passing my test. And thanking God is going to be helpful too.

In #4 you talked about "when I write I feel His pleasure." I 100% agree with that. Such good solid points you have. I took the time to make notes in Word of all your helpful instructional videos. You're one of those guys where everything you say is important. And there's a lot of info in there, and I just want to learn from it all!

I have to tell you about my test today. My test went awesome. I'm so pleased with my progress. And I give you all the credit because I did everything you have told me to do and applied it to today's test and I can honestly say I could not have done a better job today.

For one thing, for the first time I did not have a bad middle part of the test. At the end of the 12 minutes, I was ready for more, in fact!

I've been learning about 10 new briefs a week diligently, and quite a few of them came up in my test today. "Shoulder" I'm learning this week, and it came up in the test, and I didn't hesitate, I didn't freak out, I wrote it with confidence, cleanly and accurately. That's such a great feeling. Also, when I made a mistake, I considered it "water under the bridge" and moved on. That really helped that you have mentioned that. "Champions overcome this." Your advice is just incredible, yet simple.

Also, I've heard you talk about be ready for the test to speed up at any time. I applied that, and it helped significantly. I applied your many other techniques too, but I specifically remember those helping tremendously.

So I'd say I see my progress comes from a combination of solid concentration, motivation, applying your techniques, and God working in and for me. I'm very pleased that I can honestly say I have multiple victories to celebrate tonight.

...I did not hesitate on any words because I just did what you said and kept going, not messing up that rhythm I had, and you're right, the words become readable in context :)

Thank you, Mark, for making such perfect sense with your techniques. You've made me a happier person not just in my writing, but in all areas of my life because I'm more confident that I can do this hard stuff! These methods can be easily used in other areas of our lives, not just with court reporting. So that I'm appreciative of, too.

Oh, one last thing. I'm a big hockey fan. I just love hearing you talk about Wayne Gretzky in your Olympic instructional video. I can't tell you enough how enjoyable and helpful that topic of discussion was for me. I think it really made things click for me hearing you talk about athletes are similar to what we are doing with court reporting...

God bless,

Adalyn Thompson

Reporter Successfully Stops For A Year and Learns Mark's Theory!

Mark,

First off, I want to tell you that I was an official reporter and just was using a theory that was too stroke intensive so I decided to step down, stopped reporting, purchased everything from Stenomaster, and on my own I completely switched my theory. I was off work for one year doing that. It was the best thing I've ever done.

I am going for my realtime test so I looked you up again and found Magnum Steno. I LOVE it! It is absolutely wonderful because I write exactly like you so any new idea you have I just soak it up.

I just watched for the second time the focused practice and the concepts with I, you, he, she, who (that one is a hard finger stroke but I will get it), we, and they on the initial side. You are absolutely BRILLIANT!!!!!! It is awesome. After only listening to it twice, I will immediately be able to implement it in my writing every day with no hesitation. Again, it is BRILLIANT!!!!!!

Thanks,

Janet French

Member Realizes We All Can Learn to Write Shorter

Dear Mark,

I just heard someone in the court reporting world say something to the effect that you have a superior mind, and that's why you can absorb all those briefs. This presumes the rest of us can't. Gosh, I'm doing it, and I don't consider myself to have a superior mind. I just keep at it.

Anyway, there may be reporters who feel this way. That's why I'm telling you this. What I've learned is that your briefs aren't, for the most part, random. I see a real system at work here. And it's the systemic nature of the briefs which makes them possible to absorb easily, I might add, once one gets the hang of it.

See, I've changed my whole way of writing based on your system for writing short. And that's what it is -- a system for writing short, not just briefs.

Best regards, Carole Francis-Swayze

Seasoned Freelancer/Captioner Uses Magnum Steno Club to Pass Exams and Improve Significantly

I have been a realtime deposition reporter and a captioner for 22 years. When I left reporting and became a full-time captioner, I studied the then-conventional wisdom and consequently threw out ALL my phrase briefs and wrote ALL inflected endings on a separate stroke.

I did okay for myself -- my statistics put me certainly within the top 10% of the company's captioners -- but I could have done a lot better if I knew then what I know now. My accuracy was very good but my speed could have been better. I was the perfect example of what Mark calls a "write perfect and drop reporter."

In March of 2009, after nine years of captioning, I went back to full-time reporting, and I found that writing everything out was just not going to cut it. I also decided I wanted to re-attain the RPR that I had lost when I let my NCRA membership lapse. Although I had been working as a reporter/captioner for decades, I felt a bit uneasy about the RPR, because it had also been decades since I had taken a test, and test-taking has its own skill set that requires practice.

That's when I joined the Magnum Steno Club. Since joining the Club, I have shortened my writing about 35% from when I was captioning, although I'm still not what anyone would call a short writer. But my writing on the job is so much better now that it's shorter, it's a real pleasure. Writing hard material is noticeably easier now.

Practicing Mark's daily high-speed dictation definitely helped me to pass the RPR (all three legs). Three months later, I took the CRR and passed it easily. [Editor's note: He made only FOUR errors on the CRR! Truly an amazing feat - MK]

Mark has a great set of videos teaching a graduated sequence of learning briefs for shortening writing. I found them very helpful, and I also purchased the Stenomaster theory book and the Magnum Steno book so that I could strategize my brief-learning more systematically. I consider the money spent on the Club and on these two books to be the best money I ever spent in terms of improving my skills and furthering my career.

Besides being (obviously) a gifted writer, Mark is also a gifted teacher and coach. Members of the Club have access to Mark's many motivational and inspirational videos, but even in his daily dictation videos Mark motivates and inspires Club members to give their best effort. Machine shorthand is a difficult skill to learn and a difficult skill to improve on. It's very heartening to have a teacher/coach who understands the importance of encouraging and motivating students to learn the skill, and inspiring working reporters/captioners to improve that skill.

One thing that surprised me was that while I had expected practice to be a burden, in fact it turned out that I enjoy the practice and look forward to practice time, odd as it may seem. I feel more confident at the job because I've practiced that morning.

It's important to know that while Mark meets the Club member more than halfway with his dictation videos, motivational videos, instructional videos, and personal interaction, the Club member must put forth the necessary effort in order to reap the benefits. Mark is constantly exhorting us to 'give 100%.' After taking the RPR and CRR and experiencing that test-taking adrenaline rush, I realized that while I thought I had been giving 100% during practice, I really wasn't. Now when I practice I try to summon up that test-taking feeling, and it seems to help me do better.

I strongly recommend the Magnum Steno Club and Mark's books to any working reporter or captioner who is serious about improving their skills. If you put in the work, you WILL see the results.

Lee Bursten, RPR, CRR

Student Passes Last 225 Class Using Magnum Steno Club

Mark,

I joined the Magnum Steno Club when I was in my last speed class and struggling to pass the 225's. At that time, I did not have a good speed building regimen. By applying the principles that Mark talks about in the Club, mainly staying on the speaker, not dropping and concentrating 100% to the extent possible, I passed my third 225 wpm test during the summer. I had listened to most of the instructional videos and the ones about concentration and test taking strategies were especially helpful to me.

Of course, the high speed and dense material that Mark dictates was and continues to be tremendously helpful in starting my speed practice sessions. In addition, I have found that the Briefs 001 list is an excellent way to separate daily brief practice from daily speed-building practice. By incorporating these common words and phrases into my writing, I have gained speed and these briefs are invaluable to me as I enter the field of deposition reporting.

I highly recommend the Club to all steno students who are struggling to finish school.

Rochelle

Boot Camp Graduate Sees Great Improvement

Mark:

Since my trip to Texas my writing has improved tremendously. I guess it's cuz I try and do practice three 5 minute takes a day and most of all I'm writing short.

It's unbelievable how after working so hard for so long (for about a year) on writing short it sort of comes to me naturally now and am quite the genius of coming up with short forms on the fly. You really are and is a great inspiration to me.

My writing is so much cleaner these days that I almost feel guilty giving my jobs to my scopist. some days I do scope some of the work myself which I never did before. I also find myself being more conscious of punctuation while writing, and I think it's cuz I am much more on the speaker plus writing short and that leaves me more time to punctuate.

Goldy G.

Reporter Feels She Passed [SHE DID PASS!] Parts of RMR, Motivated by Magnum Steno Club

Mark:

I took the RMR skills yesterday. I do believe I passed the Lit and JC. [Update! She DID pass those two sections! - MK] They were not perfect papers, but I don't think my errors will constitute failure. I thought I did well on the Q&A dictation also. However, I did not have time to transcribe it. My notes were just not clean enough to transcribe it within the time allowed. I had shadows and stacking and needed to refer to my paper notes to transcribe. Nearly 45 minutes had gone by before I even realized it, and I had only made it through about half the transcript. I did the best I could with the rest of my transcription time.

I would have loved to have passed everything on my first attempt, but I am happy with what I accomplished. I'm sure I would not even have attempted it without your guidance and encouragement. I think the finger-to-thumb relaxation trick really works. I used that, I prayed, I tried to stay positive.

Thank you, Mark, for your willingness to share. I hope your boot camp girls did well also. I prayed for them as well.

Darcie Cruz

Student Credits Magnum Steno Club for Passing Mocks to Qualify for CSR

I just wanted to share some great news with you. This past Thursday I passed my last Mock to qualify for the next state exam!!! I joined your club towards the end of June this summer when I was struggling through 225. I have no doubt that joining your club is what got me through my 225's in school!

So now I'm done with school and am continuing to practice to you daily, and hope and pray I pass the CSR in January :)

Thank you so much for all that you do!

Kathy M.

Ready-To-Quit Student Newly Motivated by Mark and Club

I just wanted to email you and let you know how much the Magnum Steno Club is helping me! I spoke with you on the phone approximately 3 weeks ago. I was ready to quit steno all together. I am the SimplySteno student who is at 180 Lit and 190 2V. You assured me that I had not hit a plateau, and you gave me some excellent tips, plus a free two week trial to the Magnum Steno Club! I have to say that I cannot live without it now! I use it as a warm up to my schoolwork. It really gets me excited and in the right frame of mind to do my schoolwork.

I have to say the best tip I have ever received from anyone is your tip of staying on the [speaker]! Wow, what an improvement.

For the first time since I started learning steno do I not only feel like I can do this, I KNOW that I can do this...

Thank you again for helping me. Even my mom has noticed the difference in my outlook. It is so kind of you to take the time out of what I'm sure is a busy day to help others!

Sincerely, Jessica Mondello

Magnum Steno Student Passes CSR

Mark,

Your MSC [Magnum Steno Club] helped me to pass my CSR in February 2010. I started working within a week and a half of getting my license # in April, and I have been trying to practice every day, though I had gone through two new laptops on three weeks, so I slacked quite a bit there.

I believe it has improved my writing and has given me the confidence to do the depo & court work that's thrown at me. Thank you!!

I believe that spending 15-20 minutes on MSC saves me at least twice the amount of time in editing alone.

CJC

Captioner Sees Improvement in Accuracy

Hi!

I joined the MS club about a month or so ago. I actually did the trial right before I had taken the RPR but didn't really tackle too much until after the test (long story short, I was disappointed in how much I kept "freezing" up during the test and decided afterwards to get back some speed and to practice every day). Anyway, I am up to Lesson 16 in the Briefs 101 and I am loving it!!

I am a captioner and I literally just got done doing the news a few minutes ago... and now that so many of the phrasing briefs are feeling more natural, I notice my hands seem much more calm, even during the very fast segments, and I am really getting so much closer to 100% verbatim. It just feels so great.

I think you really have a winning formula that you are teaching on your website. I can't wait to see where I will be in a couple months after I go through more of the videos, learn more briefs and keep practicing. Just felt compelled to send you a quick note. Thanks again!!!

S. L.

Reporter Passes RMR With Hard Work and Prayer

Hello, Mark.

I just wanted to drop you a note to let you know my thoughts on the RMR test. First of all, regardless of whether I passed, I thought it was a good, fair test. [Note: We found out she passed! See note below - MK] There was no difficult subject matter which might trip us up, in my opinion. So if I failed any part of it, it's all on me. Second, I can't thank you enough for everything you do for our profession and for your Magnum Steno Club members especially. I have suffered from test anxiety for a long time.

I attempted the CRR a couple of times a while back, but I gave up because my fingers would shake so much that I knew I could never write clean notes on my machine during the test. I took the RMR test one time many, many years ago and didn't even bother transcribing any bit of it because nerves got the better of me.

However, I spent a good deal of time listening to your test week videos this week and really working more on focusing my mind on all those things you were teaching rather than worrying so much about just practicing on the machine. I am certain that those videos, along with all the high-speed practice, and the prayer made all the difference for me. Regardless of whether I passed the RMR today, I feel a certain level of victory in the mere fact that I was able to put all those things into practice and I was able to overcome, in large part, my text anxiety and I was able to actually transcribe all three legs!

So here's my rundown specifically of how the test went for me today:

1) While the warmup was playing, I prayed very loudly in my head during the entire minute, trying to really focus my mind and also trying to block out the warmup material so I would still be keyed up for faster dictation, as you suggested.

2) Literary started and I was a bit nervous, but I tried to breathe deeply and calm myself. I felt my writing was a bit rough because my heart was pounding so hard that it was a bit distracting to me. If I dropped, I don't remember it. I did have some spots where my notes were difficult to read, but hopefully not enough to make me fail the test.

3) Before jury charge, I prayed again during the warmup.

4) Jury charge started fine, but somewhere I lost focus and dropped a bit. I wasn't really nervous by this time, though. I wasn't exactly relaxed, but I wasn't a basket case either. When I lost focus, I made myself come right back as quickly as I could and regrouped, reminding myself to fight through it.

5) In retrospect, I'm thinking that it was either at this drop spot or another rough spot that was caused because I tried to correct a mistake. As soon as I hit that asterisk key, I knew it was a bad move. Again, I regrouped and went right on. I'm going to remember not to correct next time around!

6) I prayed again during warmup before testimony. When the testimony started, my mind was blown by how slow it sounded! My notes were beautiful for the first few lines at least. At the beginning is where I usually have lots of problems because of nerves, but not this time. It started off like a dream. There were several spots during testimony where my notes were difficult to read because I was fighting through a few places. I may have dropped a word or two mainly because I couldn't read my notes, but I don't think I had any actual drops. In other words, I had a stroke for everything, even if I couldn't quite read it.

There was only one other reporter transcribing the RMR today. We finished at the same time, but she only transcribed two legs. When it was over and we discussed the test, she marveled at how fast the Q&A was. I told her it actually sounded slow to me, and I used that opportunity to plug your website to her. I gave her the link and she seemed interested. I really hope she'll join so she can be sure and pass the test next time. I feel certain that if I didn't pass today, I will pass in November. Speaking of which, I think I'll go put in my practice for the day. I'm not going to start slacking now!

Have a blessed weekend!

[NOTE: As of June 9, 2010, we found out Dana PASSED the RMR!! - MK]

Dana

Member Credits God and Club for CSR Pass

Mark,

I just wanted to share my good news with the Magnum Steno Club and list what I felt were the main elements that contributed to my success. First and foremost, I give credit to God as being the main reason I passed the Texas CSR this past January. My continued faith in Him was the only thing that kept me going. In addition to God in my life, I give credit to you and your speed videos as well as your instructional ones.

I believe there are two types of students -- those who we lovingly call "freaks" and those who have to work hard for every speed they achieve. Actually, let's not forget those students who quit. I was a student who had above-average aptitude for court reporting, but I had to work incredibly hard once I hit the upper speeds. After years of frustration at not being able to obtain the speed and accuracy necessary to graduate much less qualify to take the CSR, I decided at the beginning of this past school semester that I was going to do everything it took to get out of school. I practiced six to eight hours a day, even weekends. This resulted in a lot of stress, tension, and pain in my upper back. I started going weekly to a chiropractor as well as a massage therapist to try to relieve my pain. Nothing helped, but I continued practicing at this same intensity. I was determined to succeed if it killed me -- not literally. I would sit through testing with tears rolling down my face because of the pain in my shoulders and back. I made a mental adjustment and decided to give 100% of my effort regardless of the failures that I faced on a daily basis. I have never been challenged in life as much as I have in school.

I started Magnum Steno a week before I was to take the Louisiana test this past October. I had been passing tests in school all semester within state standards; but once it came to the actual Q&A that I needed to become a La. CSR, my hands started to shake uncontrollably for the ENTIRE five minutes. I fought for every word that I wrote. I had 85 errors on that test. Two weeks later I took the RPR. I passed the Jury and Q&A, but missed the Lit by three errors. Instead of letting this get me down, I remembered you saying in one of your videos that it didn't matter if I failed a test or not, that I just needed to do my best and give everything I had. There would always be another opportunity to test again. I felt no shame because I truly had given it my best effort.

On the day of the RPR, I realized what it was that was subconsciously holding me back. I was so worried about who in my life was going to be disappointed if I failed these tests. I finally decided that I had to do it for ME. From then on the only one I allowed to enter the testing room besides myself was God. From the middle of October to January 9th, I practiced your methods of giving 100% of my effort, to do my best to stay on top of the speaker, to block out all thoughts during the test, and to get a stroke for every word and make it the best stroke possible. I couldn't always prevent thoughts from popping in my head during a test; but with a little practice, I was able to immediately push them out. I was surprised to realize that the more I practiced the Magnum Steno way, the less time I actually had to spend on my machine outside of school. Both my speed and accuracy increased. This also alleviated some pain in my back. I was practicing smarter.

I apologize for being so lengthy, but I just wanted you to know that Magnum Steno played a huge role in my recent success. I continue with Magnum Steno because I still have a leg to go for both Louisiana and the RPR. I also plan on trying for my CRR. Thanks to you, I have full confidence in my continued success.

Sincerely,

Corina E. Lozano

Reporter Improving and Loving Club

Hi Mark,

Thought I would write you a note and give you some feedback. I love the Magnum Steno Club and what it has done for my writing. I love the speed building and know it is making a difference, but I especially love the briefs. I'm through Briefs 101, the eighth session. I've had to make some changes, which are a process, but have been worth the time and effort.

When you're at a job and they come naturally, what a beautiful thing. I've looked at the ninth part and see that it is "me" and "my" in the right hand, which is fabulous. It means I need to change the final "m" from being my right-handed him, but that's easy enough. I've also used some of the other briefs practices, those and these in the right hand. Beautiful!!

That's been a tricky one, but oh, what a blessing when I get it at my jobs. I love, love "going to, going to be, going to have," et cetera. My, oh, my. I'm loving every minute of it, and I'm not doing it to prepare for a test necessarily although after 22 years, I really should be a Merit writer. I am doing this because I love my job and love it even more now.

I also love writing common words and endings in one stroke. I'm getting the hang of dragging the final l, with the k, which is so cool. I keep thinking why didn't I think of that? You have been a tremendous blessing to me, and I thank God for the gifts and talents He's given to you and that you are willing to share. I'm in this for the long haul. God bless you and your family and Happy 2010!!!

Mindi

Working Wonders: Student Passes 225 After One Week in Magnum Steno Club

Good morning, Mark,

Just wanted to let you know that your method is working wonders. I've still got a lot of learning to do, but I've only been at it for a week. When I got my first 225 under 25 errors, I thought I would never get another one. It turned out that I got my other one that I needed to graduate the next day.

Having said that, I REALLY didn't think I would get another one under 25 errors. If I take anything away from Magnum Steno, it's the ability to focus and block out all the mindless chatter that I usually have going on in my head during a test.

I was sitting in class on Monday, and the room was extremely hot. A third of the class is hot, a third of the class is cold and a third of the class is just right. Anyway, I didn't complain because I've already met my requirements for graduation. I didn't say anything in spite of the fact that I have to be constantly aware of my high blood pressure. I literally thought I was going to pass out and fall on the floor, but I wasn't going to say anything. The temperature is a REAL BIG issue at our school between the students and teachers.

I focused and got through the test, but I didn't transcribe it until later because I had a doctor's appointment. When I did get a chance to translate it, within the alloted hour, there were two kids yak, yak, yakking around me the whole time. I finally lost it and told them to HUSH. I got my results back the next day. I got a 21 on it. I couldn't believe it. I know I'm prepared for Saturday's test in Louisiana. If I could focus through nearly passing out and edit with kids around, there's no way I won't nail that test.

I've been going on an on and on about your website to my classmates. You should expect a call from a lot of the upper speed class soon -- especially since they've seen how it's worked for me so far.

Eternally grateful,

Corina E. Lozano

Student Stuck at 160 Discovers Club and Feels Set Free

Six weeks ago, I was wondering how on Earth I was ever going to be a realtime writer with the tools I had been given at school. I was very, very sad. I watched our bank account dwindle down by $15,000 over 2 years with no career in sight. I was doing everything right - went to school every day, practiced several hours every day, and could not understand why after 2 years I could barely write 180. Was I too old? Did I lack talent? Was it folly to think I could do this at my age?

Well, now I know - I was in a bad "arranged" marriage to a theory and school that were in complete conflict with my skills and goals. I'm sure similar stories and situations abound across the country.

Sorry to keep gushing like this, but I feel so at home writing short that my reaction is that of a prisoner set free after being kept shackled in a dungeon for 2 years with nothing to eat but moldy bread and fetid water. Well, anyway, you get the picture. . . briefs and phrases are like sunshine and ambrosia! - "M."

Reporter Credits Mark's Methods for CRR and CSR Passing

June 24, 2009: Here is my story so far...

I have been reporting for 15 years and I am an MI-CSR and RPR. I recently moved to Texas and have to recertify in order to work here. I joined MSC at the beginning of June to get ready for the CSR. I watched the instructional videos and followed the instructions. I practiced every day. The great news is, I totally ROCKED on the Texas CSR today. I couldn't believe how absolutely slow the dictation seemed. Four weeks ago, I was struggling with regular test speeds, and today there were giant gaps between the words; so much so that I didn't have to use phrasing briefs if I didn't want to.

The precursor to the story is, this practice method helped me finally pass the CRR. Several years ago, I attended one of Mark's speed building boot camps. I had taken the CRR twice before attending the boot camp and just could not pass. Couldn't even turn the tests in. After using the method I learned in the high-speed boot camp I took the CRR in May 2008 and actually turned the test in. I didn't pass, but I only missed it by 10 errors. I took the CRR again in May of 2009 and I passed!!

This practice method absolutely, positively works. I am going to take the RMR this fall and I already know I will pass it!! I can't believe the HUGE difference in my writing in just four weeks.

Yaaay Magnum Steno Club and THANKS, MARK!! -- Rebecca Callow

New Reporter Credits Club with Increased Skill and Confidence to do Job

Dear Mark,

I cannot thank you enough for putting together this website. I have been a member for less than a month, but I feel like I have learned so much, and I truly feel my skills growing every day!

I recently graduated school and was having a tough time transitioning from being a student reporter to a working reporter. I can't express how much all your invaluable advice, positive reinforcement, brief practice, and dictation has helped me.

I started practicing to your plethora of dictation material before my jobs. Your super-fast, challenging dictation gave me the confidence to finally begin working, and for that I am forever grateful.

Sincerely,

Nancy

Elated Reporter Loves Reporting and Loves the Club

Mark, Thanks for the fast dictation !! I have been dreaming of having this kind of service for a long time. I appreciate it very much.

I am able to more fully and completely relate with this Chariots of Fire movie quote: "When I run I feel His pleasure." The runner's "high," the exhilaration and ecstasy !! Thanks for the opportunity to feel these same emotions as a shorthand writer. When I write fast (and especially clean) I feel His pleasure!!

Thank you for the opportunity to take the skill God has given me and perfect and strengthen it to such a high degree. Your life and work is a blessing to me beyond description. Thank you!! Thank you!! Thank you!!

Thank you for your passion and love of excellent shorthand writing and speed building. Thank you for the great innovations you have given us all and for the opportunity to have less fatigue as writers, cleaner transcripts, more time and money for our families and out-of-this-world fantasmagoric job satisfaction!!

Thank you for being the pioneer you truly are, for following your heart, mind and spirit by giving us and the world a higher standard to reach for, a more excellent way !! Thank you for the new life blood you have infused into this demanding work. It's obviously becoming easier and easier the more I incorporate your incredible briefs and phrases !! Bless you and your wonderful family.

Sincerely, Clark Edwards

Reporter Sees Speed Improvement and Future RPR Pass

Dear Mark,

I still can't fathom that most reporters don't practice (and that I didn't!) You definitely came up with the perfect answer for working reporters, both time and cost factors considered. It definitely makes the day go better. Yes, I have noticed the increase in speed, and I WILL get the next RPR!! That's what made my mind up--the test should have gone better and it didn't. I will not be thwarted, especially since I now have your secret weapons--briefs--at my fingertips. In addition to all that, the speed has increased as well as the tran rate which, of course, means less editing time, etc.

Anonymous

Reporter Seeing Quick Improvement

Mark, still going strong. This is already working. In court yesterday, my brain was much clearer and the work was easier. The first time I practiced today it was so much easier for me. I think I'm really, at times, getting something for every word. I try to all the time, but it doesn't always work, but I'm starting to hear these ridiculous speeds. Thank you.

Tracy

Reporter Now "Getting" Formerly Unwriteable Witness

Just wanted to thank you for your club, and to thank you for helping me with my writing a speedy drug task force witness that I have to report at least once every couple of weeks. Before Magnum Steno, I thought he was simply unwritable for me. And when I'd see him coming, I wanted to duck and hide or claim "broken fingers" or something silly like that.

Last week he testified, and it didn't really dawn on me until about halfway through his testimony that I was keeping up with him (you know, "keep up with the speaker") like you'd taught me to do. It really wasn't much different than any other witness in the hearing! I knew immediately it was because of your help. So thank you for making this guy writable for me!! Thank! Thank you! Thank you!

T.L.R.

Reporter Seeing Huge Improvement in Notes

Hola Mark,

Yay! I got to PRA with the Club again yesterday. Thx for the P A FR D of the week from the Windy City, Chicago. Your April fool's selection was very fun. Can't wait to HEAR and WRITE DOWN AT VERY, VERY HIGH SPEED what you come up with next.

Guess what? I am editing a job taken March 25 (after the March 21 seminar and four days of diligent digit Steno Club speed building) and I can notice a huge IMPROVEMENT in the notes. Fingers are much more SURE of themselves and are hitting something for EVERYTHING very, very, very ACCURATELY. While editing the job later, it's entertaining and educational to look over at the steno notes -- just like you do on your highly-acclaimed 11 yr old notes series -- and say to myself "WHY ARE YOU WRITING THAT IN SO MANY STROKES, knucklehead???

SSC (reporting since 1983...Old dog rejuvenated by learning new Steno Trix!)

Student Feels Invigorated to Finally Pass RPR

Mark, I am a want-to-be court reporter in Arizona. I took your seminar in Phoenix on Feb, 7th and the whole day I kept hearing bells dinging in my head and seeing light bulbs flashing.

I've been struggling for years to pass the RPR (it is required in my state to work). So many things you were saying were thoughts that I had, but didn't know how to act on them. Your practice method is working for me!!! What a relief it is for me...you have no idea.

For two years alone I have been striving to pass the QA portion of the RPR -- that's the only leg I need!! For two years!! I started court reporting school (at Gateway) in the fall of 2001.

I found the hardest part of school was the very end. And you taught me why! There is no speed building at 280 or higher!! The students complained too much when it gets to 240 and the teachers were influenced by that. I am now practicing every day to Magnum Steno and speeding my own material up to 280. Today I committed a sin and left the take at 225 for the whole thing (I'll repent later.) I just had to see how it was going. It was a cake walk!!!!! I feel liberated and victorious! This RPR is not going to defeat me! Bring it on NCRA! BRING IT ON!!!!!!!!!!

Niki

Reporter Kind of Likes the Club

"I'm loving the Steno Club-- ALWAYS AWAYS ALWAYS!!!!!!!! NEVER STOP!!!!! I'm going to NAIL my RMR Q&A May 2nd without a doubt. Thank you millions and millions!!".

Clark

Reporter Fed Up With Stroking Out, Shortens with StenoMaster Theory and Magnum Steno Book

Mark:

I just bought your Magnum Steno book... I've worn out my StenoMaster book, so I bought a new one... I originally learned RWG theory [RobertsWalshGonzalez Theory]. While it was a simple theory to learn, once you get to 240, it is just a lot of work to write.

Once I got out of school and got certified, I said, There's no way I can keep up in the real world with this theory. It has worked for people in my school, but not for me. In school we were taught that briefs were evil and to stay away from them and write everything out. They told us briefs would only add to our time in school.

Out of curiosity, I bought every theory book out there to see how each theory did things the way they did. When I saw yours, it scared me because it was everything my school said not to do. Not knowing any better, I decided to leave it alone.

But once I finished with school and got my certifications, I was fed up with all the stroking. I said, There's gotta be an easier way. I got your StenoMaster book out and inhaled it. I loooooooooooooove that book. It makes stenoing more fun and interesting. Thank you so much for putting that book out. I can't believe no schools out here use that theory. It makes me so frustrated.

And then when I heard you had a school, I got so sad. If I would have known, I would have made the move to attend your school. Oh well. The next best thing are your books, so I will be okay.

Anyway, thank you so much for your theory and your Magnum Steno book. It has made me faster. Now I have a shot at the RMR.

Name Withheld Upon Request

The Magnum Steno Book is a tome on better short writing. There's so much to study in it, I've just begun. I've just found, for example, there's a chapter just on using the word couple in phrases.

Initally, my favorite chapter is "-Z is Better than -S for Plurals," because I learned -Z for plurals and was always trying to use the -S for some things.

Page 127, Merges, using all the word's letters seems to make those steno outlines much easier to remember. My theory taught the -GT for final -th, so your Philadelphia shift (-SD) is just a right slide from there. It might be a little easier for me to remember.

What's interesting is the way you pair don't with who. You wouldn't or you don't hear you don't by itself but you do in phrases. It's a new brief starter for me.

The Magnum Steno Book is a great addition to my library.

Sally

MAGNUM STENO SEMINARS:

"One of the most informative seminars I've attented. Lots of pertinent/usable new information."

"Mr Kislingbury is a genius in his field. He is a phenomenal speaker, very knowledgable, informative, and thorough. He is also a great speaker with a good sense of humor and kept me interested throughout the whole seminar. The seminar was worth the money I spent." P.Y.

"It is hard work, but I came back to be tortured for the second time. I have been a court reporter since 1976...everything written out. Your seminar changed my writing. I will "never" be you but you are truly inspiring. It was excellent." Cheri Violette

"I was hesitant to branch out and learn new briefs and phrases before coming here. This seminar has made me change my mind and I can't wait to get started writing shorter. Thanks a million!" C.C.

"Excellent seminar, very inspiring and gave me a lot of ideas to work on." B.S.

"I thoroughly enjoyed the seminar. Mark is a great presenter and makes it easily understood." Paula

"Mark, you are the best instructor I've ever had in any court reporting seminar, and I truly mean that. You are an extremely patient and genuine individual. The fact that you really want to help us to be better reporters and you're not doing seminars just to make a buck really shines through!!! I appreciate the respect you have for each of us as individuals and the various software programs we use." Debbie Harnen

"I got so much from this day of new ideas and techniques. I know they will help me so much in future writing. What fun it is to find new shortcuts. The speed building ideas were also excellent. Implementing them will make us all extremely proficient writers! Thank you so much!" Lou Ann Parker

"I feel confident learning from someone who radiates such success! Indisputably, something is "right" with Mark Kislingbury's method, as is attested by his world record. Even using Phoenix Theory, there are still many "tricks" that I plan on incorporating into my daily practice." Laura B. Parker

"I love briefs, so this seminar was heaven for me. Thanks for all your advice. You're awesome!" T.A.J.

"Great motivation for a long-time reporter. Thank you so much, Mark! You are so kind. I got some great things to incorporate." J.W.

"First I want to thank you for the excellent seminar you presented in San Diego a few weeks ago. When I first decided to attend, it was because I needed points, and, what the heck, I might pick up a good idea here and there. I really thought I knew pretty much all there was to know about realtime reporting, and didn't think there was anyone better than I was at it. Well, as life always does when one's head gets too big, you really pushed me off of my self-constructed pedestal. So much so, that I have decided to pursue your theory." M.V.

"I've been a big fan ever since I first heard about your theory when you came to Edmonton, Alberta Canada. I know you won't remember me, or at least I wouldn't expect you to, but you signed my book with the quote "You can do it." I find myself continuously looking back at quote from Sept 18th, 2005, and remembering how I felt this book would change my fortunes. At that time I was on my 160s. I was doing well, but I knew that I needed something to change. A lot of time has passed since then, but I did finish my 225s in early February of 2006 largely due to your theory and went on to write in Sierra Leone. I'm now doing my dream job and living in Europe, which was one of my biggest goals that I had set out to achieve for myself. I wanted to thank you for helping me achieve my goals and being so open about your theory and sharing it with everybody. Your theory book - although I didn't incorporate everything - has made a huge impact on me and how I write. I just wanted to thank you. I'm sorry for taking so long to do so. I just have been caught up in other things :) Thank you for your time. And your "You can do it," signing actually did mean a lot to me." S.M.

"I was at your seminar in Houston this weekend and thought this would be a great way to try to implement your short writing style. (On the article you gave us to count our strokes, my total was 170!) I've been a reporter 17 years and learned Sten-Ed theory. I've done your brief and speed videos for two days and I'm loving it. I had a depo today with a fast talker and I could tell the difference in speed (my hands were warmed up already) and I started using some of the briefs, mainly adding in the endings to the word, for now. Thanks for providing this tool. It's something I'll definitely use, as it just takes up a small amount of time daily. Have a great day!" A.M.

"Who hasn't watched super-human Mark K. as he aced a speed contest or broke a world record? In his seminars, Mark humbles himself and shows us that he makes mistakes just like the rest of us. To that I can relate!" Karen Teig

"The seminar was very informative and enlightening. After learning a lot of the briefs and methods, it was like a light bulb going off in my head! I would definitely recommend it to anyone at any level of experience." Karrie Truitt

"Extremely informative. Well worth the money." Edie Daniels

"Wonderful! I really enjoyed it. Thanks for coming to Des Moines!!" Anonymous

"I enjoyed the four-day seminar. It was well worth the money. I would do it again and will." S.B.

"I liked the phrasing, dictation live. Great technology tools for us to see. Life stories were great to hear." Sheryl Stawski

"Exceptional! Inspiring! Rewarding! Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!" Kim Folds

"Thank you so-o-o much you've really are a good teacher. I am now excited about the fact that I can do it. THANKS FOR EVERYTHING. I cannot tell you how much of a huge honor it was to meet you!!" Anonymously

"I have absolutely no criticisms of this seminar whatsoever. Nothing but PRAISE. Thank you from the bottom of my heart for your commitment to our field and your contagious enthusiasm to encourage us to become more proficient and then, ultimately, HAPPIER court reporters. This was worth EVERY PENNY. YOU GUYS ARE AWESOME! God bless you richly." Dina Villis

"Great, Excellent, Bravo! Totally worth it! You + Samuel were great and very personal all through out every step of registration! Thank you, thank you, and thank you!" Pauline Garry

"The Seminar was a turnaround in my approach to writing. After the first weekend, I feel like a new reporter! I'm excited about my job and now this will make my job easier. Very clear in its presentation, the room was cozy enough that you could hear other's questions. I give this seminar A+ Change is fun!!!" Anonymously

"Mark, your enthusiasm and passion for writing short and writing fast is inspirational, grounded in humility and generosity. Your willingness to share "your secrets" has made this the best seminar of my professional career while reinforcing our duty to strive for excellence! You have really made it fun! Thank you so much." Sherrie L. Segall

"Thank you so much for everything. You've given me hope to become a great reporter instead of a good reporter. You made learning fun and human and really listened to our needs and helped us find a better way to do things. It has been a pleasure to meet you!" Laura Quinette

"Great-Fantastic-Learning how to speed build your way is great. CRR, watch out!" Anonymously

"Very exciting, quick results. Thank you for sharing." Jennifer Campbell

"I feel these two days already made my career easier. Mark is an inspiration." S.B.

"The Seminar definitely gave me some new methods to go back to use in improving my writing." L.P.

"You rock!!" J.E.

"Good location. Nice size group. I like that you are very motivational and not negative." Gay Dall

"Dear Mark: As I wrote a very challenging 200 pages today with 2, if not 3, people talking most of the time all day long, I kept thanking myself for taking your boot camp which just ended last week. I can NOT tell you THANKS enough for all the help you gave me in improving my writing style, learning to concentrate much better than I had been in the past, and staying right on top of the speakers today. Thanks for so many new briefs I learned that kept me "in the game" today!!! :) I've been reporting since 1969 -- AIB (Iowa) grad of Feb. 1969!!!! :) : ) == learned Berry Horne theory; first class at AIB to learn long vowels!!! (Began attending AIB fall of '67; my certificate is dated Feb. 28, 1969). So it IS possible for us "older, experienced" reporters to learn new things -- and apply them immediately!! :) : ) the only way I passed the CRR in 2003 (Reno) was with your guidance. Think how much better I'd be if only I had time for practice!! I WILL put some lists of briefs on my mirror to keep learning. :) :) : ) THANKS again!" Bev Herring-Black

"I appreciate very much the training, the knowledge and the personal care you seemed to have for each one of us in the boot camp experience that ended Thursday. Frankly, I do not think any teacher/instructor has heretofore given me that sense of his/her having a personal commitment and investment in student success. It makes a decided difference in the student's own approach to the endeavor. When you closed with the suggestion that we pray for one another's success (and I did), that was the icing on the cake. Your teaching ability is equal to your writing ability. I am very glad that I enrolled in your boot camp experience! I have learned a new approach, and I am eager to make it mine." Joan

"Hi Mark,! Here's the news! If you recall, I am working on getting my last leg of the RPR with the lit. I was just waiting for that fourth minute to hit me. You know the part I am talking about, right? Guess what happened! The test ended!!!!! I never felt it. Bottom line, this is the closest I have ever come to passing this test. I know I have several bloopers throughout the test, but I really do not feel they add up to 45 errors. I think I actually passed. Thanks again for everything! You are truly a Godsend!" Debby

"Mark, just a note to say I loved your boot camp. I have been really struggling with my writing for a few years, because I didn't have your teaching tools. Thought it was because of my age, but it was really practicing slow instead of fast and trying to be too perfect. Your great coaching and positive attitude were just the tonic I needed! Will probably take the next one, too. Many thanks." Dennis

"I just got home, but I didn't want to go to bed without telling you how much I enjoyed the teleconference tonight. I thought it was very, very helpful in pointing out your favorite briefs and those that you felt were the most frequently used. I marked those that you felt were really important, and I plan to focus on them with the new theory class. Sorry we had to go, but at around 11:00 the security starts coming around to see why we haven't left. There was one student who had a question, but she said she would email you with it. I heard another student say that this was the best conference of them all -- she felt like she got a lot out of it. I feel the same way. Just thought I'd let you know. Great job!" Dolores

"Mark, Wow! First off, I was sad to end our 10 sessions. Next, thank you so much for all of your help! I am confident that I passed my literary RPR leg FINALLY!! I had been missing the main key all along: SHORTEN MY WRITING. I followed your advice all the way, and cannot tell you how easy and how much in control I was. You are a Godsend, Mark, and I just want you to know that I owe my success this past weekend to you and your encouragement. I hope to meet you in person one day, and I plan on taking your classes again. I purchased your theory book and am anxious to start at Chapter 1 and go forward learning more and more about your theory. Again, much thanks and YOU ARE MAKING A DIFFERENCE IN PEOPLE'S LIVES." Kate B.