What in the World Is Transcription?

Some of you may not have heard of the term or are just dropping by for a look. Here is a quick explanation of transcription:

• Typing dictation from audio files (MP3 or WAV usually) using a pedal and transcription playback software on the computer.
• Some transcription is verbatim--typed exactly as dictated. Usually this is done with medical transcription as it is very exact.
• Other transcription of internet calls, teleseminars, webinars, or similar conferences need more editing to get rid of exterraneous words like "um," "So...," "Well...," etc.
• Some transcription is still done by typing from a tape, although today usually digital recordings are used.
• Everything is transferred over the Internet: Audio files, study guides, and the final transcript is usually emailed to the client.
• Transcription involves checking grammar, substituting better word choices for the speaker or writer, sometimes rearranging sentences so they flow better, fixing punctuation, etc.
  
• Proofreading involves checking grammar, checking punctuation, making suggestions to the author of alternative ways to say something that sound better, etc. These are usually gone over more than once, depending upon the exacting nature of the author (I once heard that C.S. Lewis never wanted any editing done on his manuscripts--some people can do that).

Now that you know a little bit about what transcriptionists do, check out the articles below on pricing, our limited time discount, as well as blog posts on how to treat clients and how to fix audio problems in your recorded material.