Tips On How To Draft Professional Transcriptions

By Melissa Smith


Are you learning how to transcribe? If you are starting out as a transcriptionist, you need to focus on producing quality work. Anyone can transcribe but only a few can deliver exceptional work. This article shares how you can produce professional transcriptions.

Use proper punctuation and spell words correctly. Well-drafted transcripts have no spelling or punctuation mistakes. Check for these mistakes after transcribing your piece. Additionally, you can use correcting tools to improve your efficiency. A good understanding of grammar will make your transcripts stand out. Improve your grammar and punctuation skills every day.

Transcription involves challenges such as background noise, cross talk, and soft voices. You need to have good listening skills in order to transcribe correctly. An understanding of dialogues and conversations can help you hear and type correctly. An efficient way to improve your listening skills is by using noise-canceling headphones. They can eliminate background noise and help you focus on important words.

You need to have great research skills. When transcribing, you will come across unfamiliar words and terminologies. It is important to have an understanding of the industry in order to easily get the words. You might need to look a few acronyms, companies, proper nouns and any other crucial information that you might not be familiar with. Being an excellent researcher can help you produce quality transcripts.

You must be able to pay attention to small details. You must not miss any detail when transcribing a file. Laughter pauses and utterances should be detailed in your copy. They are an important part of the conversation and add meaning to what the speaker says. Being able to hear such small details means you will produce quality work that will satisfy your client.

Do you clearly understand what your client wants? Ask yourself this question start working on the transcript. You need to understand what should or should not be included in the copy. Timestamps pauses and filler words are some of the things that can bring confusion. If your client has not provided any instructions, it is advisable to ask how you should transcribe the file.

Look for a reliable transcription software program to help improve your speed and accuracy. You can easily find a program that gives you more control on audio files. Pausing, playing or controlling audio speed through a mouse can be challenging. It can slow you down especially when you have to rewind. The program gives you additional features such as hotkeys or a pedal.

Find a quiet and comfortable environment. Being in a peaceful location helps you focus on the job. You can clearly hear and focus without any interruptions. Try to be comfortable and focus your full attention on the audio. Additionally, it is important to be in a comfortable workspace. Find a good chair that does not hurt your back.

The above tips are useful but you should be committed and self-motivated. Be committed and ready to tackle any challenges that may come your way while working. You must be willing to learn and follow instructions. This will helps you to meet customer expectations as you continue to improve your skills.




About the Author:



No comments: