Shorthand was an abbreviated style of writing used on Earth throughout the 20th and 21st centuries.
In the 21st century in particular it is implied to be a skill known by specific individuals whose work would necessitate them to have such skills. In 2007 Larry Nightingale took notes while he and Sally Sparrow were watching a DVD while being pursued by a Weeping Angel. (DW: Blink) In 2009 Lois Habiba took short hand communication between John Frobisher and The 456 when she was assisting Torchwood. (TW: Children of Earth: Day Three) By 100,000,000,000,000 Martha Jones joked with Professor Yana about shorthand he appeared, bewildered at the reference. (DW: Utopia)
