Translation can be wearisome task sometimes. A good translation requires a lot more than knowing the language. There are a couple of advices and tips that can make the entire process easier and the results more accurate as well.
Reading the original document
Obviously, this is the first logic step. Once you receive a translation project, you should start by reading the source text. Reading it once is definitely not enough. You need to make sure that you understand it, and this might require more than one reading. Good reading skills will prove to be really useful during this phase If there is any confusion related to the text, you need to contact the client and ask for clarification.
Research
An excellent translator team needs to make sure that it has all the information it needs when it comes to the translation process. For example, certain terminology is needed for some projects, and the translator must get familiar with it first. The translator might need to use other resources, including books, white papers, or specialty articles. Online resources are very important as well. There are plenty of websites and forums that can contain relevant information.
Using the right tools
A translator must use all he available tools. A good dictionary is essential for the translation process, and in some cases, there might be a need for more than one. There are also plenty of online tools. Online dictionaries and translators can come in handy as well.
CAT systems are designed to reduce the need for human work. They will help you save a lot of time. For example, there are software tools which will let you know which elements are different when it comes to segments that are almost identical.
Stay true to the text
The source text is very important and a translator should be faithful to it. A good translation must contain all the information from the original text. This means that you shouldn’t add unnecessary things or remove important parts. Staying true to the text also means choosing the correct register and using a tone that is appropriate.
Keep it natural
When you are using a dictionary you might be tempted to use the options that are more sophisticated. However, the language used for a translation should be natural so that the target audience can understand it with no problems. Use words that are commonly used in the target language.
If you are not a native speaker, it might be a good idea to ask for the help of a native. A speaker of the target language can let you know if you used awkward wording or unnatural phrasing.