Things You Should Know to Pass a Transcription Test


Things You Should Know to Pass a Transcription Test
Beth Worthy

Beth Worthy

11/5/2015

While pursuing a career in transcription work doesn't necessarily require a degree, you will most likely be tested before being hired. A general transcriptionist usually does not need prior education or experience to get transcription jobs, but must pass a test based on typing speed and accuracy in spelling and grammar.

How to Pass a Transcription Test?

  1. Get the transcription equipment ready, i.e., computer, broadband internet connection, headphones and transcription software.
  2. Work hard on your typing speed.
  3. Practice transcribing.
  4. Submit your resume to the transcription company and take a test.
  5. Check the grammar & spelling.
  6. Adhere to instructions and follow the style guide.
  7. Proofread your work before submitting and run a spellcheck.
  8. Don't feel discouraged at the start.

Here are some other tips to remember:

Transcribers

The items you will need to be a transcriber usually include a computer, high-speed internet connection, headphones and transcription software. Every transcription company has its own style guide so be aware, what works with one company might not work with another.

Related Post: - How You Can Be Better at Freelance Transcription

As far as transcription skills are concerned, you need to type fairly fast for the sake of being productive and meeting deadlines. You need to be proficient in English, meaning you should have a deep vocabulary and understanding of professional versus common or colloquial usage of terminology and structure.

Transcription Jobs

In order to get hired by a transcription company, you will likely need to submit a resume and take a test using transcription software with an audio sample. Be sure to include any typing experience or administrative work on your resume. Even volunteer typing work is appropriate.

Find out what the company's minimum typing speed is. Stricter companies tend to set a minimum level of around 50 words per minute while more flexible firms might go as low as 25 words per minute, or perhaps no minimum at all if deadlines are not as important.

Related Post: - How to Improve Typing Speed for Faster Transcription

You can improve your typing speed by searching for online typing tutorials. Generally speaking, your hands and fingers need to be placed properly and comfortably, instead of using the very slow one-finger-at-a-time method. Memorizing where letters and numbers are placed on the keyboard will help accelerate the learning process.

Practice Before Testing

Download any popular and free transcription software to help you practice transcribing before taking the test. Have a spell check on your computer to double-check your spelling.

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Beth Worthy

Beth Worthy

Beth Worthy is the Cofounder & President of GMR Transcription Services, Inc., a California-based company that has been providing accurate and fast transcription services since 2004. She has enjoyed nearly ten years of success at GMR, playing a pivotal role in the company's growth. Under Beth's leadership, GMR Transcription doubled its sales within two years, earning recognition as one of the OC Business Journal's fastest-growing private companies. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with her husband and two kids.