As far back as ancient Egypt, scribes were using shortened versions of their own written language to make note taking faster. Hieratic and Demotic writing were both shortened and simplified versions of hieroglyphics using quick and easy symbols. The Greeks did the same with numerals, making it faster to write numbers with a single stroke. Xingshu and caushu were each simplified Chinese writing styles during the Han Dynasty. The modern form of shorthand was invented in the early 1800s.
In the modern age shorthand is most commonly associated with two methods. The first and most popular method is Pitman shorthand. Sir Isaac Pitman first published his shorthand invention in 1837. The system works by using shapes to indicate phonetic sounds rather that proper spelling, and it uses a series of dots and other shapes to indicate vowel sounds beside the main strokes. The thickness and position of the various strokes are also significant in this style. The Pitman shorthand method was popular among reporters, writers and secretaries in both America and the U.K. until the pocket tape recorder was invented. Pitman shorthand has also been used in 15 different languages.
The other major contributor to shorthand writing in modern times is John Robert Gregg. This method is still used by some, especially in the U.S. The shorthand was first published in 1888 and has been followed up by several variations. The method is primarily made up of ellipses and intersecting lines.
The proficiency of each shorthand writer determines the speed at which these methods are effective, but the results can be impressive in many cases. According to the Shorthand Shorthand Shorthand website, those proficient in the most difficult version of Gregg shorthand can write in excess of 200 words per minute using the method. The average Pitman shorthand writers can hit 160 words per minute with ease. The record for fastest shorthand goes to Nathan Behrin, who tested at 350 words per minute in 1922.