How can you balance accuracy and speed when interpreting?

1 Know your purpose

Before you start interpreting, you should know your purpose and role in the communication situation. Are you interpreting for a medical appointment, a legal proceeding, a business meeting, or a social event? Each context has different expectations and standards for accuracy and speed. For example, in a medical setting, you may need to prioritize accuracy over speed to avoid any misunderstandings or errors that could affect the health of the patient. In a social setting, you may need to prioritize speed over accuracy to maintain the naturalness and rapport of the interaction. Knowing your purpose will help you adjust your interpreting style and strategy accordingly.

2 Prepare in advance

One of the best ways to balance accuracy and speed when interpreting is to prepare in advance as much as possible. You should research the topic, terminology, culture, and background of the speakers before the interpreting assignment. You should also familiarize yourself with the format, agenda, and objectives of the communication event. By doing so, you will reduce the chances of encountering unfamiliar words, concepts, or expressions that could slow you down or confuse you. You will also be able to anticipate the content and structure of the speech and plan your interpreting accordingly.

3 Use memory techniques

Another way to balance accuracy and speed when interpreting is to use memory techniques to retain and recall the information you hear. Memory techniques are methods or strategies that help you improve your short-term and long-term memory. Some examples of memory techniques are chunking, association, visualization, repetition, and note-taking. By using memory techniques, you will be able to store and retrieve the information more efficiently and accurately, without losing or forgetting any details. You will also be able to cope with longer or complex sentences and avoid interrupting or lagging behind the speaker.

4 Monitor your performance

A third way to balance accuracy and speed when interpreting is to monitor your performance and adjust it as needed. You should be aware of your strengths and weaknesses as an interpreter and seek feedback from your clients, colleagues, or mentors. You should also evaluate your own performance after each interpreting assignment and identify areas for improvement. By monitoring your performance, you will be able to recognize and correct any errors or mistakes that could affect your accuracy or speed. You will also be able to learn from your experience and improve your skills and confidence.

5 Practice regularly

A final way to balance accuracy and speed when interpreting is to practice regularly and consistently. You should expose yourself to different types, modes, and levels of interpreting and challenge yourself to improve your skills. You should also practice with different sources, materials, and topics that are relevant to your field and interest. By practicing regularly, you will be able to enhance your vocabulary, grammar, pronunciation, and fluency in both languages. You will also be able to develop your listening, speaking, and cognitive skills and cope with different situations and demands.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?