How long does the written portion of the CSR examination typically last?

The written portion of the California Certified Shorthand Reporter (CSR) examination typically lasts 3.5 hours. This duration allows candidates ample time to complete various sections of the exam, which may include multiple-choice questions and essay components that assess their understanding of legal principles, professional ethics, and stenographic skills. The extended time is crucial for ensuring that candidates can thoughtfully engage with the questions and demonstrate their knowledge thoroughly without the pressure of a too-brief time limit.

While other durations such as 2 hours, 4 hours, or 1.5 hours might seem sufficient, they do not align with the established guidelines for this examination's content and complexity, which require a more extended assessment period to adequately evaluate a candidate’s preparedness for a career in shorthand reporting.