Abstract: A speech transcription apparatus comprising a first transducer for converting speech from a first individual to an electrical signal, a memory device for storing the electrical signal, and a second transducer for reproducing the speech in response to the stored electrical signal. The memory device is arranged for simultaneous recording and playback, so that a second individual can transcribe stored speech substantially simultaneously with storage of further speech. A variable delay period between the storing of the speech and its reproduction is provided. The delay period may be controlled by the second individual. The device enables substantially real-time transcription of spoken speech. Periods of silence in the first individual speech are deleted, without intrference with the reproduction function. The memory may be configured as a magnetic tape unit or as a random access memory unit.

Abstract: A quasi-steno keyboard permits text entry into a computer either by standard letter-by-letter typing or by stenotyping. The keys of the keyboard are arranged in three parallel rows with the tops of the keys in the first and second rows being substantially coplanar and the tops of at least four keys in the third row being coplanar and lower than those in the first and second rows. The four keys in the third row are laterally centered in the keyboard and are positioned, with respect to the keys of the first and second rows, such that a thumb can rest comfortably on each of these keys when an index or other finger of the same hand rests on a crack between adjacent keys in the first and second rows.

Abstract: A method of creating text using a computer having a display screen and a pointing mechanism for identifying locations on the display screen. The method involves displaying a list of commonly used words on the screen so that the user may select the words to be used in the text by successively pointing to them. The computer responds to the pointing mechanism and displays on the screen a line of text comprising the identified words in their successive order of selection.

Abstract: A method of creating text using a computer having a display screen and a pointing mechanism for identifying locations on the display screen. The method involves displaying a list of commonly used words on the screen so that the user may select the words to be used in the text by successively pointing to them. The computer responds to the pointing mechanism and displays on the screen a line of text comprising the identified words in their successive order of selection.

Abstract: A quasi-steno keyboard permits text entry into a computer either by standard letter-by-letter typing or by stenotyping. The keys of the keyboard are arranged in three parallel rows with the tops of the keys in the first and second rows being substantially coplanar and the tops of at least four keys in the third row being coplanar and lower than those in the first and second rows. The four keys in the third row are laterally centered in the keyboard and are positioned, with respect to the keys of the first and second rows, such that a thumb can rest comfortably on each of these keys when an index or other finger of the same hand rests on a crack between adjacent keys in the first and second rows.