Question Transcription Software - Virtual Assistant Forums

Beth0813 · #1 (**permalink**) 07-02-2009

Hello!

Is Express Scribe easy to use? If I secure a client that wants transcription work done would I be able to figure out how to use the software?

Thanks,
Beth

Business-Bytes · #2 (**permalink**) 07-02-2009

Hi Beth,

Oh yes, it is pretty easy to use and figure out.

If you have a foot pedal, you go to Settings > Pedal and Hot Keys and choose your foot pedal from a dropdown list (it might only have yours listed

), then choose how many pedals yours has. Then use the Foot Pedal Wizard button to setup what pedal does what (fast forward, rewind, play).

I kind of left all the other things under settings at the default - except for how far it rewinds on stopping.

If I can ever afford it, I'm going to get Stop/Start software. That would be the ultimate!

Have fun!

kathiemt · #3 (**permalink**) 07-02-2009

Don't wait till you have a client job Beth to work it out. Do it now. It's free to download so why not download some podcasts from online as well and use those to practice your skills. There are so many interesting broadcasts out there that you could use it as an educational exercise (by listening to the podcasts) while practicing your transcription skills with the Express Scribe software. That way, when you do get a job you'll be confident and able to complete the client's job in good time, rather than learning time.

Stewartwin · #4 (**permalink**) 07-02-2009

That's a good idea, Kathie. You never want to learn a new skill on a project because it shows in the outcome.

I haven't had a transcription project in quite a while so even I may take your suggestions to brush up.

mhoyte · #5 (**permalink**) 07-03-2009

I downloaded Expresscribe about two months ago and purchased a foot pedal. It was very easy to use and I found it to be user friendly as well.

Beth0813 · #6 (**permalink**) 07-04-2009

Thanks for the advice. I will download Express Scribe but will hold off on purchasing a foot pedal. If I'm not mistaken you can use hot keys instead of a foot pedal.

Business-Bytes · #7 (**permalink**) 07-04-2009

Quote:

Originally Posted by Beth0813

Thanks for the advice. I will download Express Scribe but will hold off on purchasing a foot pedal. If I'm not mistaken you can use hot keys instead of a foot pedal.

I really recommend getting a foot pedal because this will increase your production time by keeping your hands free for typing. Time is money, so by keeping your hands on the keyboard typing, you are being more productive.

Just my 2 cents...

AwesomeAssistant · #8 (**permalink**) 07-04-2009

I've used Express Scribe and if you're going to do lots of transcribing, a foot pedal is very handy. I usually only doing a small amount here and there and use the play with pausing feature. That speed is usually sufficient for me. Since I've used shorthand most of my adult life, I've also developed a 'shorthand' when transcribing. Then I go back after I'm done transcribing to do minor edits.

Do download the free software now and get familiar with it before starting a client project. Let us know how it goes.

VirtuallyYoursFromConnecticut · #9 (**permalink**) 09-17-2009

Great advice Kathie - thanks for the tip! Makes sense to practice when the pressure is NOT on!

Business-Bytes · #10 (**permalink**) 09-17-2009

Oh! And a good headset should be on the list, too. Just listening with computer speakers most likely isn't going to pick up all the little words that can be missed.