Which of the following is an essential skill required for a CDR?

The essential skill required for a Certified Deposition Reporter (CDR) is typing speed and proficiency in legal terminology. This skill set is fundamental because a CDR must accurately capture spoken words during legal proceedings, which involves not only fast and accurate typing but also an understanding of legal language and terminology to ensure precise documentation.

Legal terminology can be complex, and familiarity with these terms enhances a reporter's ability to understand and transcribe dialogues correctly, avoiding misinterpretations that could lead to significant issues in legal documents. Additionally, a high typing speed is paramount in capturing a fast-paced dialogue without missing critical information, thereby ensuring that all testimonies are recorded faithfully.

While public speaking abilities, knowledge in financial accounting, and research and analytical skills are valuable in various contexts, they are not as directly relevant to the primary responsibilities of a CDR as typing proficiency and legal terminology proficiency. The focus for a CDR is primarily on effectively capturing and reporting verbal exchanges with high accuracy and efficiency.