My Scoping Standards
I understand the trust reporters place in a scopist and the value of accurate, polished transcripts. Scoping is more than proofreading to audio. It involves reading for context, formatting, editing, and catching misstrokes or mistakes that can happen when reporters are capturing every word in fast-paced, stressful situations. I approach every job with care, fully utilizing my software, respecting your notes, and following your preferences for consistency and clarity. I welcome feedback, communicate openly, and treat every transcript as if my name were on the final draft alongside yours. Above all, my goal is simple: to make your job easier and your workflow smoother, and I take pride in making that happen.
What I Will Do
Scope to full audio using professional-grade headphones for context, clarity, and accuracy
Closely follow your preference form and ask for further clarification when needed
Read and respect your steno notes
Edit for sense and readability, not just technical correctness
Research spellings, terminology, and exhibits rather than making assumptions
Maintain consistency in spelling, punctuation, formatting, and speaker IDs
Leverage CaseCAT to its fullest potential, using built-in tools for speaker IDs, by-lines, formatting, and overall transcript organization
Flag uncertain areas with comments or hidden notes
Communicate clearly and early about questions, expectations, issues, and timing
Return transcripts on the agreed-upon turnaround, ready for a quick final review by the reporter
Listen to feedback and apply it thoughtfully, using reporter input to improve future transcripts and maintain consistency
What I Won’t Do
Skip over audio or become complacent in terms of listening to every word in every transcript
Ignore preferences, formatting instructions, or reuse a different reporter’s style
Change clear steno, speaker IDs, or dictionary entries without notation or confirmation
Guess on spellings, terminology, or phrasing
Over-punctuate at the expense of readability
Make silent edits that create extra cleanup for you
Accept work I can’t complete within the agreed-upon turnaround
Leave unclear sections unmarked or assume “close enough” is sufficient
Deliver work that requires a full rescope on your end
Disappear or delay communication if questions or timing issues arise
Take constructive feedback personally or ignore it