Interpreting Asia Interpreting Europe- Unit 4: Note taking

Summary

This video explores the critical role of note-taking in liaison interpreting, focusing on its importance for memory retention and effective translation. It highlights common mistakes such as disorganized notes and incorrect figures, and provides tips for improving note-taking, like using symbols, abbreviations, and a structured layout. The script emphasizes that notes should supplement short-term memory, not replace it, and encourages interpreters to develop their own personalized systems through practice. The goal is to help interpreters maintain consistent quality while efficiently managing information during negotiations and business interactions.

Takeaways

• 😀 Note-taking is essential for liaison interpreting as it aids memory and helps record specific details like numbers, names, and lists.
• 😀 Effective note-taking should not aim to capture everything word-for-word but focus on key ideas and concepts.
• 😀 Interpreters should rely on short-term memory, using notes to supplement, not replace, their memory.
• 😀 Proper preparation is crucial for interpreters to avoid working from incomplete or messy notes.
• 😀 Different interpreters may develop their own unique note-taking systems, based on symbols, abbreviations, and layouts that work best for them.
• 😀 Notes should be structured in a way that aids recall, such as writing vertically or using key reminders like keywords.
• 😀 It is important to use symbols and abbreviations for specific details (like numbers) that are harder to remember.
• 😀 Interpreters should not try to write everything down; instead, focus on retaining ideas in their memory while using notes for specific data.
• 😀 Notes for interpreting should supplement memory effectively, helping interpreters recall important details when interpreting.
• 😀 Interpreters should practice and refine their note-taking systems regularly to find what works best for them in various situations.

Q & A

What is the primary focus of the program described in the script?

The program primarily focuses on the practice of note-taking in liaison interpreting, emphasizing its role in supplementing short-term memory and aiding effective communication during interpretation.

Why is note-taking important for liaison interpreters?

Note-taking is essential for liaison interpreters because it helps them retain specific details such as numbers, names, and lists, which are critical for accurate interpretation. It serves as a memory aid and allows interpreters to manage complex information.

What mistake did the interpreter make during the meeting in the transcript?

The interpreter made several mistakes, including poor preparation, writing too much information, trying to record everything word-for-word, and getting figures wrong. These errors could have led to serious miscommunication and damaged the interpreter’s reputation.

What is the recommended approach to note-taking for interpreters?

Interpreters should focus on retaining key ideas rather than writing everything down. They should take notes based on memory and comprehension, using symbols, abbreviations, and a proper layout to effectively support their interpretation.

How does the script suggest notes should be structured?

The script suggests that notes should have a clear layout with key ideas, reminders, and specific details like figures. Using abbreviations and symbols helps streamline the process, allowing interpreters to recall critical information quickly.

What role does short-term memory play in note-taking for interpreters?

Short-term memory plays a crucial role in interpreting because it helps the interpreter process and retain information for a short period. Notes are intended to supplement this memory, not replace it, and help interpreters recall essential details during the interpretation.

Why is it not advisable for interpreters to write down everything they hear?

Writing down everything verbatim is impractical and would overload the interpreter’s memory. Instead, they should focus on the key points, as interpreting is about conveying the message’s essence, not repeating every word.

What are some tools and techniques that interpreters use for effective note-taking?

Interpreters use various tools, such as spiral-bound pads, pens, and symbols, to take notes vertically. They also create personalized systems of abbreviations and symbols to enhance speed and efficiency while minimizing distractions during interpretation.

What advice does the script provide regarding developing a note-taking system?

The script advises that there is no universal note-taking system. Interpreters should experiment with different techniques, such as abbreviations, symbols, and personal tricks, to develop a system that works best for them through practical experience.

How do interpreters ensure they maintain the quality of their interpretation over long periods?

Interpreters maintain quality by relying on a combination of short-term memory, effective note-taking, and constant practice. They also ensure their notes are organized and concise, which helps them stay focused and deliver accurate interpretations even after long working hours.