What is a General Transcriptionist?

The first thing that comes to mind when we talk about General Transcription is typing, and lots and lots of typing. Actually, that is correct since it is the basic responsibility of a General Transcriptionist. But is it all there is to it? Let’s go deep into the world of General Transcription.

I was surprised, and amazed at the same time, when I discovered a lot about General Transcription. Whenever you watch DVDs, especially movies in foreign languages, you probably would enable subtitles so that at least you’ll understand what they’re talking about even if you have no idea about the language they’re speaking in. This also applies if the audio is not good or if you really can’t hear well. Who does those subtitles? It’s usually the work of a General Transcriptionist. This also includes subtitles and captions on TV shows or even for general records from audio tapes and CDs.

It is not that difficult but at the same time it isn’t easy. The top priority when it comes to General Transcription, as well as all other types of transcription, is accuracy. A 100-line article with 100% accuracy is definitely much better, and could be paid more, than a 1,000-line article with 75% accuracy. One may think, what’s so hard about it? It’s just like dictation. When it comes to accuracy you’ll be surprised as to how hard it is. Different people speak in different ways. Some shout, some murmur, some mumble, and some doesn’t even make sense. Some words may also be confusing or unfamiliar such as places and names.

But of course, there are certain tools that a Transcriptionist can use such as the internet or tools that are provided to him/her by the employer (if there is any). They can look for common names or words. The goal of a Transcriptionist is to type as many words as possible with the highest possible accuracy. Some have very high standards such as 98% accuracy. It takes time but practice can help a Transcriptionist a lot.

General Transcription is more on skills and knowledge. Skills in terms of listening and typing then knowledge since if you know a lot about the subject of the project, you’ll fare better. Let’s say you’re transcribing a Star Wars DVD. If you were able to watch the movie, you’ll be familiar with the names and terms such as Obi-Wan Kenobi. If not, it could take you longer since you need to know how it is spelled. An unfamiliar Transcriptionist may type it as OB1 Canobie or something else.

Again, practice helps a lot and as time passes by, it would be much easier and the Transcriptionist will be more familiar with lots of new terms. He/she may acquire better accuracy and more productivity. It is usually project-based since there is no usual steady source of jobs to do but is a bit unlikely to have none at all. So far, General Transcription still a good industry and may even grow bigger. Plus, if you’re lucky, you may even get to work at home

Source: personal experience