Verbatim Transcription: 3 Types and Interesting Tips to Remember

Verbatim vs. Edited Transcription: How to Choose the Right Option

If you are looking for transcription services, you may be asked to pick between verbatim and edited transcription. Choosing the right form depends on your project, your audience, and the purpose of your transcript. This guide explains verbatim transcription, contrasts it with edited transcription, and highlights the best use cases for each option.

What Is Verbatim Transcription?

Verbatim transcription is the process of converting audio or video speech to text exactly as spoken. This means that every word—including stutters, false starts, filler words, and even non-speech sounds—is written down.

• Captures word-for-word dialogue, including errors, pauses, and interjections
• Includes speaker quirks, unintentional sounds, and grammatical mistakes
• Presents a true record of how things were said, not just what was said

This approach is useful when you want full transparency and accuracy of a conversation. Researchers and legal professionals often require this level of detail.

What Is Edited (Clean) Transcription?

Edited or "clean" transcription summarizes speech by removing fillers, stutters, and unnecessary repetitions while keeping the original intent intact. The goal is to make the transcript easier to read and more pleasant to follow.

• Removes filler words (such as “um,” “uh,” and “like”)
• Smooths out stammers, repetitions, and false starts
• Repairs obvious grammar mistakes and awkward phrasing
• Presents content in a clear, professional style

This method works best for business documentation, publications, marketing materials, and whenever a polished text is needed.

Verbatim vs. Edited Transcription: Key Differences

• Detail Level: Verbatim keeps everything; edited focuses on clarity.
• Purpose: Verbatim is best for research and legal needs; edited suits business and publishing.
• Readability: Verbatim is harder to read but more accurate; edited is easier and cleaner for readers.

Side-by-Side Examples

• Verbatim: “Last year was, um, I mean, a blast. I was, like, so involved in sports at school and made like, uh, a bunch of friends at this music camp. You know, I can’t wait for the new school year to, like, just start.”
• Edited: “Last year was a blast. I got involved in sports at school and made a bunch of friends at a music camp. I can’t wait for the new school year.”

Types of Verbatim Transcription

There are a few styles of verbatim transcription, depending on how much detail you require:

1. Full Verbatim (True Verbatim)

• Includes every word and sound, including filler words, repeated words, laughter, and background noises
• Best for legal or strict research purposes

2. Verbatim (Standard)

• Captures everything the speaker says but typically omits non-speech sounds and background noises
• Common for academic or journalistic interviews

3. Intelligent Verbatim (Clean Verbatim)

• Edits out most fillers and repetitive sounds for cleaner reading
• Ideal for business or ready-to-publish transcripts

When to Use Verbatim Transcription

Certain scenarios call for a true record of speech, no matter how messy or unpolished it may sound. Examples include:

Direct Quotes and Testimony

• When quoting interviewees, politicians, or public figures, accuracy prevents misrepresentation

Research, Focus Groups, and Qualitative Studies

• Psychology and market research often analyze how something is said, not just what is said
• Patterns of speech such as hesitation or repetition can affect study interpretations (Johns Hopkins, 2017)

Legal Proceedings

• Court records, depositions, and investigations require strict accuracy for evidence and legal review
• Small vocal cues can have big legal impacts

When to Use Edited (Intelligent Verbatim) Transcription

Most businesses and content producers prefer edited transcription for its clarity and readability.

Business Meetings and Conferences

• Speakers focus on information, not delivery
• Minutes, summaries, and reports work best with clear, concise transcripts

Interviews and Training Material

• Job interviews, HR documents, employee training, and onboarding materials benefit from a polished transcript

Closed Captioning and Subtitles

• Closed captioning and subtitling demand easy-to-read text synced to audio
• Edited transcription suits these tasks best

Tips for Accurate and Effective Transcription

• Choose automated transcription for speed, review for accuracy
• Use proofreading services for legal, academic, or sensitive matters
• Consider translation with text translation and audio translation for global audiences
• Check transcription pricing and captioning services pricing to stay within budget

Order the Right Transcription for Your Needs

Ultimately, the best transcription style depends on your goals. Verbatim transcription is ideal for research, law, and journalism where every detail counts. Edited transcription works better for business, training, or content where clarity and professionalism matter.

If you require high-quality, accurate, and confidential transcripts, GoTranscript offers a full range of options, including AI transcription subscriptions and human-based services. You can order transcription or order captions quickly, ensuring a perfect fit for your specific needs.