My Process
I would like to outline the steps I go through for each transcript I receive.
Step 1
As soon as I receive notice from a client that they would like to send me a transcript for proofreading, I will respond with a confirmation that I can do the job in the amount of time required. If it is a first-time job, I will also ask you to fill out a preference sheet for me, detailing how you like things done.
Step 2
I will then have you e-mail the transcript to me in PDF format. If you need a converter, you can get a free one here. After you download, follow the prompts to install. Inside your software, with your transcript open, go to Print. Where you would normally select a printer to print on paper, click the drop-down box or scroll through to locate CutePDFWriter and select it. Click print. It should prompt you to save to a file, such as MyDocuments or your desktop. You can then attach the newly created PDF file to an e-mail and send it to me.
Note: I can convert the text/ASCII file on my end, but it will be much cleaner if it the conversion is done within your software.
Step 3
I will proofread directly on this PDF copy of your transcript, using iAnnotate4 software. I will make suggested corrections using red type directly above the text on each page and use yellow highlights for any questionable items. By utilizing this system, I am eliminating the need to print pages, mark them, and rescan them before the transcript is returned to you, saving both of us time.
Step 4
I will then return your annotated transcript to you via e-mail in the PDF format. It is important for you to open this returned transcript in the latest version of Adobe Acrobat Reader so that you can view all of the red and yellow highlights that I have made. Using preview or other viewers will not show the markings correctly.
If requested, I can provide “rules” for corrections, using the reference sources Morson’s Guide to English for Court Reporters or Court Reporting: Bad Grammar/Good Punctuation, as well as Merriam-Webster Unabridged Dictionary.
If the transcript is long or a rush job, I can return it in shorter chunks as it is completed, or I can e-mail updates as to how the job is progressing. Once I have received a job, it is a commitment I will take very seriously and will be given the highest priority.