What Is Transcription?

What Is Transcription?

Transcription is the process of converting spoken words from audio or video files into written text. The transcriptionist listens to the recording and writes out what is said, usually in the same language as the speaker.

The term "transcribe" comes from the Latin verb ‘transcribere,’ which combines "trans" (over) and "scribere" (write). Other ways to say transcribe include "writing out" or "typing out."

Even though transcription sounds simple, it requires strong listening and writing skills. There are also clear guidelines to follow, depending on the type of transcription needed.

Types of Transcription

There are several types of transcription services. Each serves a distinct purpose. The three main types are verbatim, edited, and intelligent transcription.

Verbatim Transcription

• Verbatim transcription captures every sound and word in the audio, including pauses, stutters, and background noises.
• This type is detailed and includes fillers (like "um" and "uh"), tone changes, and non-verbal cues.
• Verbatim transcription is often used in legal proceedings, research that values accuracy and emotion, job interviews, and psychological assessments.
• This method takes more time and effort due to the level of detail required.

Edited Transcription

• Edited transcription, also called "clean" transcription, removes unnecessary words, filler sounds, or repeated phrases.
• While some parts get edited out, the main meaning of the speaker’s message remains.
• This style is best for formal settings such as conferences, seminars, and public speeches.
• The goal is to create a document that is easy to read and professional in tone.

Intelligent Transcription

• Intelligent transcription focuses on a smooth, high-quality transcript, removing half sentences, slang, and non-standard language.
• Fillers, pauses, and repeated phrases are deleted to keep only important information.
• Unlike edited transcription, it specifically targets clarity and accuracy over capturing emotion or every spoken word.
• This approach is popular for business meetings and communications, where understanding is key.

How Is Transcription Different from Translation?

Transcription and translation are often confused, but they mean different things.

• Transcription is writing out spoken words in the same language as the audio or video file.
• Translation means converting text from one language to another. For example, translating the Japanese word "daijoubu" to "OK" in English. Learn more about text translation.

Both processes make information easier to share and understand, and both are vital for effective communication.

Where Is Transcription Used?

Transcription has many uses in today’s world.

• Journalism and Academia: Interviews become searchable documents for easy reference in articles and research papers.
• Media: TV and radio transcripts ensure content is accessible and can be cited or archived.
• Legal: Transcripts are needed for court hearings and witness statements.
• Medical: Doctors and patients need written versions of audio records for better data management.

Transcription helps make information easier to find and use in many industries.

Transcription in Business

Businesses use transcription for several key reasons.

• Transcribe meetings to keep accurate records of discussions, helping teams follow up on important points.
• Analyze customer calls to improve customer service and track buying habits.
• Use transcripts in market research to quickly review large amounts of customer feedback.
• Repurpose audio and video, like podcasts or webinars, into accessible written content to boost online visibility.

When Do You Need a Transcription Service?

Hiring a transcription service can save time and ensure accuracy. Consider outsourcing transcription when:

• You have limited time or need to meet a tight deadline.
• Your content library is large (like podcasts, lectures, or videos).
• You want professional-level accuracy for business or research.
• Your transcription skills or equipment are limited.

For example, researchers needing quick analysis of multiple interviews often turn to transcription services to speed up the process.

Businesses and content creators, such as YouTube channel owners, can also gain more exposure and engagement by providing written versions of their content.

To get started, order your transcription online.

Six Key Benefits of Transcription

1. Accuracy
   Reading a transcript helps capture every detail that may be missed when only listening. Accurate records are vital for legal and research work.
2. Accessibility
   Transcripts make content available for people who are deaf or hard of hearing, and for those who struggle with digital recordings. Providing accessible content improves inclusivity (Oregon State University, 2017).
3. Time Savings
   Outsourcing transcription enables you to focus on analysis, content creation, or other high-value work.
4. Better User Experience
   Searchable written content keeps users engaged on your website for longer and creates more ways to interact with your material.
5. Learning Support
   Students use transcripts to review and understand academic material. In a survey, 81% of students reported using transcripts to aid their learning (Oregon State University, 2017).
6. Improved SEO
   Audio and video files alone cannot be indexed by search engines, but transcripts make them searchable, helping your website rank higher in search results. Discover more about cost-effective transcription.

Pro Tips for Transcribers

If you want to become a transcriptionist, follow these best practices:

• Use quality, noise-cancelling headphones for clear audio.
• Identify whether you need verbatim, edited, or intelligent transcription before you start.
• Utilize autocorrect and transcription tools to save time.
• Practice to improve typing speed and accuracy.
• Work in a quiet environment to avoid distractions and mistakes.
• Take regular breaks to stay alert and avoid burnout.

For automated solutions, explore automated transcription and flexible AI transcription subscriptions.

Transcription Solutions from GoTranscript

Transcription is vital for content accessibility, business growth, and research efficiency. Whether you need closed captions, subtitles, audio translation, or professional transcription proofreading, GoTranscript provides accurate and affordable solutions. Get started with GoTranscript today to simplify your workflow and improve the reach of your content.