This guide covers the basics and should help you get the most from your recording and keep the transcription time to a minimum.

 

 

Recording Dictation

 

· Choose a quiet recording environment.

· Do not use a voice activated recorder as it can result in the start of each sentence being cut off.

· Hold the microphone about a hand’s length from your mouth.

· Avoid moving around too much.

· Speak clearly and not too fast.

· Spell out names and terms that may be unfamiliar to a lay person.

· Clearly indicate the start and end of the dictation.

 

 

Recording an Interview

 

· Choose a quiet recording environment.

· Ensure the equipment is working correctly.

· If there is only one microphone, ensure this is placed nearest to the interviewee.

· Avoid interrupting the interviewee and use visual cues like nodding your head instead of saying ‘uh huh’.

· Ensure the interviewee speaks clearly and ask them to repeat anything that you do not catch.

· Clearly indicate the start and end of the interview.

 

 

Recording a Group Discussion

 

· Choose a quiet recording environment.

· Ensure the equipment is working correctly.

· If possible, place external microphones close to each participant.

· Ask participants to introduce themselves prior to the discussion as this establishes identifiable voice patterns.

· Ask softly spoken participants to speak up or move closer to the microphone.

· Ask participants to avoid talking over one another.

· If possible, avoid refreshments during the discussion as the resulting noise can obscure speech.

· Clearly indicate the start and end of the group discussion.

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