Retrieving files

In principle, you must use the same program in which a translation has to be delivered to a client.

4.2 QC (“Screening”)

Check to see if the translator has encountered one or more translation problems (these are mostly highlighted with a hash mark [#] but we have seen double question marks or even double slashes [//] being used as well) and try to solve the problem, possibly in consultation with the project manager in charge.

While screening the text, pay attention to the following:

 Save the text regularly (i.e. every two minutes or so) during screening.

 Scrutinize the text sentence by sentence for interpretation errors, spelling errors, punctuation, missing parts and stylistic problems. Each text must be formulated in a clear and logical manner. Therefore, you must ensure that the translation makes sense and that the target group will be able to understand the text. If in doubt, consult with the project manager in charge.

 Correct evident errors when you are certain that you can solve the problem yourself (for example, spelling or grammar). If you are in doubt about any issues regarding style (if the target language is not your mother tongue), place a hash mark (#) at the relevant passage or term. Place any possible suggestions after the hash mark, in square brackets. Accumulate these queries and contact the appropriate project manager about them.

 Ensure that the text looks carefully edited. Follow the instructions given below for plain texts. If the original format must be saved, then the instructions in Section 3.4.1 have precedence.

- No titles at the bottom of a page with the associated text on the following page.

- Consistency in punctuation of lists.

- Consistent use of bold and italic letters.

- No double spaces.

- Maintain the standard typeface and the default font size of the source text. If the client supplied the source text only as a hard copy and has not provided specific requirements, then select Times New Roman 12 for MS Word.

- Check that the table of contents is correct, i.e. whether these agree with the titles of chapters and/or sections.

- Check numbers in tables and in the text.

 Check for term consistency (for example, do not use “end point” and “terminal point” interchangeably in one text). If you have reservations about the consistency of a certain term, use the search function to examine the entire document.

 Ensure that you have made use of any reference materials supplied (e.g. terminology lists).

 If you are uncertain about a term, check the relevant reference books and programs:

- Dictionaries (general translation and specialist dictionaries).

- Databases, e.g. IATE (https://iate.europa.eu).

- If necessary, use search engines on the Internet.

After you have worked through the entire text, contact the project manager for assistance in solving any queries and uncertainties. If you have many questions, these can best be sent to the project manager by e-mail or fax. He/she will then contact our client and/or the translator.

Next, remove all superfluous #, [], @, and, where necessary, the document characteristics from the text.

Finally, perform a spelling check.

Send the text to the project manager in charge.