Transcription and Proofreading
Core concepts
Transcription requires verbatim accuracy, proper formatting (caption, appearances, index, page/line numbering), and consistent speaker identification. Proofreading involves checking spelling, punctuation, numbers, dates, and cross-references. Understand read-and-sign procedures, errata sheets, and how to handle inaudible or unintelligible passages (mark clearly, never guess). Know certification language and the reporter's signature block.
Common traps
- "Cleaning up" grammar in a verbatim transcript-this alters the record.
- Guessing at inaudible words instead of marking them.
- Inconsistent speaker labels or page/line numbering.
- Missing errata corrections or failing to note them.
- Overlooking homophones and number transpositions during proofreading.
Rule of thumb
Proofread backward (last sentence to first) to catch spelling and punctuation errors without being distracted by meaning, then read forward for sense and formatting. Always verify names, dates, and figures against the record.