Complete Consonants & Position Writing
Master F, V, TH, S, Z, SH, M, N, L, R, W, Y, H and outline positioning based on the first vowel sound.
Overview
Beyond straight strokes, Pitman shorthand uses curves derived from circles (F, V, TH, S, Z, SH, M, N, NG, L, Ar) and upward strokes (Ray, Way, Yay, Hay). Position writing determines whether an outline sits above the line, on the line, or cuts through the line.
Key Rules to Remember
- ✓Position 1 (Above the line): First vowel sound is a 1st-place vowel (e.g. "Talk", "Path").
- ✓Position 2 (On the line): First vowel sound is a 2nd-place vowel (e.g. "Take", "Paid").
- ✓Position 3 (Through the line): First vowel sound is a 3rd-place vowel (e.g. "Tea", "Feel").
Detailed Pitman Rules
Position Writing Rule
The position of the outline on ruled paper is determined by the FIRST VOWEL in the word.
Two Forms of R
Pitman has two R strokes: Downward Ar (used when preceded by a vowel, e.g. "air", "arm") and Upward Ray (used when followed by a vowel, e.g. "ray", "red").