STTRs listen to what is being said and simultaneously convert this to text on a screen. This is not a précis or a summary but a verbatim, i.e. word-for-word, account. This enables a deaf or hard of hearing person to follow exactly what is being said and to participate fully. There are no gaps to fill in, no guesswork; every word spoken is there in front of you. In addition, where relevant, the STTR will indicate environmental sounds, such as laughter or an interruption by a mobile phone.
