Embarking on a Transcription Career: Unveiling the Essential Tools You Can’t Do Without!

Let’s Earn Money Through Transcription!

Transcription is a flexible, practical method to increase your income right from your home. Yes! That’s right. If you carry decent typing skills, here’s an opportunity you’d like to explore further.

To become a transcriptionist, some basic equipment is necessary. In this article, we will discuss those essentials and also a few optional ones to accelerate your transcription journey. You might even own some of these items already.

1. Personal Computer or Laptop: The basic necessity as a transcriptionist is a computer. Do not stress about needing an incredibly sophisticated machine – a typical, reliable personal computer or laptop is sufficient. The key is to use popular transcription software – many are designed for PCs, so using a PC is a better choice than a Mac for this profession. But if you are a Mac user, there are available workarounds.

2. Microsoft Word: Having access to Microsoft word allows you to create and save files which are globally accessible.

3. Headset: Investing in a comfortable, good quality headset is crucial. You may choose over-the-ear, on-the-ear, in-ear headphones, earbuds, or even wireless headphones. Comfortability and preference are the key aspects here.

4. Transcription Software: The next important item in the list is transcription software. While there are free versions available, they might limit your abilities. Express Scribe, The FTW Transcriber, and Inqscribe are great options that can help you get started with the job.

5. Foot Pedal: A foot pedal is recommended to enhance your working speed. It’s used to pause the audio, fast-forward, and rewind it, leaving your hands free to type.

6. Ergonomic Desk Chair: It’s important to sit comfortably when you’re transcribing for hours. Your back and neck will thank you for the investment in a comfy, ergonomic chair.

7. Text Expander (Optional): A text expander is a powerful tool to speed up your typing by autocompleting the phrases for you. It might not be essential to start, but it can up your game when you become a regular transcriber.

8. Specialized Dictionary (Optional): If specialized in transcribing medical or legal materials, a specific dictionary may come handy to authenticate terminologies and meanings.

Remember, every profession requires some initial investment, and becoming a transcriptionist is no different. But the good news is, most of the items needed might already be sitting on your desk. The rest, we hope, this article helps you find your way.

Kick start your transcription journey now with Janet Shaughnessy’s ‘Transcription Foundations: Free 7-Lesson Mini-Course’! Get a taste of earning money right from the couch.