Even the most experienced translators can make mistakes. Here are some common errors to be aware of:
1. Not Following Instructions
If your project comes with a style guide or specific instructions, follow them. If you fail to follow specific instructions, even your accurate translation will be considered an error. This can include failing to adhere to specific style guides, deadlines, or formatting requirements. It can also involve neglecting to provide the correct number of words or characters. Stick to the specific guidelines you receive from the client. If you don’t have pre-set guidelines, you can use the best practices or your preferences.
Pro Tips:
1. Read the instructions carefully: Before starting to translate, make sure you fully understand the client’s requirements. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to ask for clarification.
2. Use a checklist: Create a checklist to ensure you have addressed all the client’s instructions before submitting your translation.
3. Communicate with the client: If you encounter any difficulties or changes in the project, communicate with the client promptly to avoid misunderstandings.
2. Not Consulting Clients About Doubts
When encountering unfamiliar terms, cultural references, or ambiguous phrases, it’s essential to consult with the client for clarification. Failing to do so can lead to inaccurate translations that may misrepresent the original meaning.
You can be in doubt about anything. You may find it hard to understand some of the text, clarify with the client. You may be clueless about some words or phrases even after doing your own research and googling, ask the client. You may have a doubt about the instruction you received, ask the client. You may have some preferences and every preference has a slightly different angle, consult with your client. You are not supposed to have all the answers.
Pro Tips:
1. Don’t be afraid to ask questions: If you’re unsure about something, it’s better to ask the client for clarification than to make assumptions.
2. Provide context: When asking questions, provide context so the client can better understand your query.
3. Document your communications: Keep a record of your messages with the client to avoid misunderstandings and disputes later on.
3. Not Correcting the Source Text Errors
While a translator’s primary responsibility is to accurately convey the meaning of the source text, it’s also important to be mindful of any errors or inconsistencies in the original. If you identify errors, it’s crucial to communicate them to the client and suggest corrections. Remember that we all can make errors. Writers can make mistakes too. A translator is the most meticulous reader a writer ever has. If you see inconsistency and confusion ask the client, or the writer directly. Before transferring the errors in source, check the source text with the client. Perhaps, it’s just your misreading but it’s always great to check.
Pro Tips:
1. Be a critical reader: Pay close attention to the source text and look for any errors, such as spelling mistakes, grammatical errors, or inconsistencies in terminology.
2. Suggest corrections: If you find errors, offer suggestions for corrections. But, be respectful and avoid making assumptions about the author’s intent.
3. Document your findings: Keep a record of any errors you identify and the corrections you suggest. This can be helpful in case of disputes or revisions.
4. Not Reading the Target Text in Isolation
Once you’ve completed a translation, it’s essential to read the target text in isolation to ensure it flows naturally and is easy to understand. This step can help you identify any awkward phrasing, inconsistencies, or cultural references that may not be appropriate for the target audience.
Pro Tips
1. Read aloud: Reading your translation aloud can help you identify any awkward phrasing or stumbling blocks.
2. Consider the target audience: Think about the cultural background and language proficiency of the target audience. Ensure your translation is appropriate and understandable for them.
3. Seek feedback: If possible, ask a native speaker of the target language to review your translation and provide feedback
5. Not Proofreading for Typos and Punctuation
Never feel too confident that you cannot make mistakes. Typos, errors, mistakes can occur. A thorough proofreading can ensure your translation is accurate and free of errors. Running a final proofreading also demonstrates your commitment to quality and professionalism.
Pro Tips:
1. Use proofreading tools: Consider using proofreading software or tools to help you identify typos and grammatical errors.
2. Read your translation backwards: Reading your translation backward can help you focus on individual words and characters, making it easier to spot typos.
3. Take a break: After completing your translation, take a short break before proofreading. This can help you see your work with fresh eyes.
6. Not Allocating Enough Time
Tight deadlines can have a significant effect on the quality of your work. Before taking on rush work, do consider and calculate the risks. Working under tight deadlines can increase the risk of errors. It’s important to set realistic expectations and communicate with clients if deadlines seem unattainable.
Pro Tips:
1. Estimate your time: Before starting a project, estimate how long it will take to complete. Be realistic and factor in research, translation, and proofreading time.
2. Set realistic deadlines: If the client’s deadline is unrealistic, communicate with them and negotiate a more reasonable timeframe.
3. Prioritize your workload: If you have multiple projects, rank them based on deadlines and importance.
7. Not Asking for Feedback
Seeking feedback from clients, colleagues, or native speakers of the target language can help you improve your translation skills and identify areas for improvement. Failing to ask for feedback can limit your growth as a translator.
Pro Tips:
1. Value feedback: Embrace feedback as an opportunity to learn and grow.
2. Seek feedback from multiple sources: Get feedback from clients, colleagues, and native speakers of the target language to get a well-rounded perspective.
3. Be open to criticism: Be receptive to constructive criticism and use it to improve your work.
4. Incorporate feedback: Implement the feedback you receive to improve your future translations.
