One very crucial step involved in completing a translation project is the editing process. After a translator completes a translation, the document may be sent to a separate individual for editing. Editing is especially used for documents that need to be ‘print-ready’ at the completion of the project so every step must be taken to ensure a near perfect translation. Editing is normally charged per hour whereas translations are generally charged per word.
The main function of an editor is to fix errors such as spelling, grammar, punctuation, missing text, formatting, and they revise any awkward-sounding translations. The editor does this by checking for accuracy of the translation by comparing source document to target document.
Just as the translator must be a native speaker in the language they are translating into, the editor also must be a native speaker to ensure grammatical or contextual errors are virtually non-existent. In other words, the editor needs to be a native speaker for the same reason the translator does. A good editor must have a keen understanding of grammar, context, writing conventions, cultural diversity, and style of the language he/she is working with.
It is also key for the editor to be an expert in their field. Not only does the editor need to understand the language conventions thoroughly, but he/she also needs to be well-versed and experienced in the subject matter in question. If the editor is editing a medical document, it is absolutely vital that the editor also have a background in the medical field.
Many editors find it helpful to use the Track Changes function in Microsoft Word to assist them in the editing process. Many other software types are used to assist editors in their task, but Track Changes is usually the most widely used among the community because of the simplistic nature of this feature. It allows the editor to make the changes he/she wants by inserting, deleting, or moving text or graphics. You can also change formatting using this feature.
Editing is yet another option the client has at their disposal while submitting a translation request. Review the specifications and requirements of your project and decide if editing is the right option for you.
