60 WPM Dictation: General English Passage 1
A gentle 60 WPM dictation passage for beginners. Clear pronunciation, common vocabulary, and short sentences to build confidence.
About This Dictation
This passage is designed for students who have completed basic shorthand theory and are beginning dictation practice. The vocabulary is common and the sentence structure is simple.
Instructions
- Set a timer for the dictation duration
- Listen to or read along with the passage
- Write in shorthand without pausing
- Transcribe after completing
- Compare with the key below
Passage Text
“Good morning. Today we will begin our practice session. The weather is fine and the sun is shining brightly. Many people are going to the park. They will enjoy the fresh air and the green trees. Some children are playing games on the ground. A few ladies are sitting on the benches. They are knitting and talking to each other. The birds are singing in the trees. It is a very beautiful day.”
Word Count: ~78 words | Time: ~1 minute 18 seconds at 60 WPM
Key Points to Watch
- Practice “th” blends in “the,” “they,” “them”
- Note the “ing” endings: playing, sitting, talking, singing
- The phrase “each other” has a standard shorthand abbreviation
Transcription Key
Review your work after writing and note:
- Any words that caused hesitation
- Strokes that were unclear on re-reading
- Missed words or substitutions
Next Steps
When you can write this passage accurately at 60 WPM, try our 80 WPM dictation passages.