In our previous article, we shared a few tips to set aspiring translators on the path of success.

Now that you have recurring projects from a good number of clients, how do you make sure that you deliver your best work every time?

Here is a quick checklist that covers the best practices during the translation process, from beginning to end. If you make sure to follow it, it is guaranteed that you will not forget any aspect that might affect the quality of your translation.

1. Before starting a project

• First, do not start without receiving a PO or written confirmation from your client! Sudden cancelations are not unheard of.

• Do not wait until the last minute to start!

• Read the entire document before starting.

• Check if there is any existing reference document.

• Read all the reference documents.

• Identify the terms to research.

• Communicate any question to the client (BEFORE beginning the project).

• Secure specialized dictionaries and glossaries.

2. During the translation

• Make use of all the reference material and instructions provided.

• Translate non-literally.

• Choose appropriate vocabulary.

• Make sure that the style of the target content flows naturally.

• Verify all names and numbers in the target content.

• Save the translated content (back up!).

3. After completing the translation

• Run a spellcheck for spelling and grammar errors.

• Verify all numbers (and their proper localization to the target language).

• Verify all names.

• Verify punctuation.

• Check that there are no typos.

• Check letter cases.

• Check the numbering throughout the document.

• Check all titles and headings.

• Check that the headings are coherent with the text body.

• Check that no content was omitted.

• Review the translation once just after finishing.

• Review the translation one more time (later would be ideal).

• Do a quick visual check to ensure that the layout is the same as the original file.
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Do you think we are missing something? Feel free to share it with your colleagues and others in the industry.

Happy translating!