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Do you ever translate using paper and pen, without a computer?Does this "antiquated" method have any Pros/Cons in terms of workflow and productivity?

In the workforce, many translators with10+ years experience did not learn translation with software. They used good old paper and pens. However, translators my age most likely studied translation in conjunction with specialized software as I did. These CAT Tools (Computer Aided Translation) have become an big part of my personal translation process and using them is almost a reflex.

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Question added by Deleted user
Date Posted: 2013/12/16
Lena Saad
by Lena Saad , copywriter , mednet

I can do both and I usually start on the computer then move to a paper after2-3 hours.

Paper and pen is slower but it is more effective and easier to concentrate on and it is healthier for your eyes.

 

مها شرف
by مها شرف , معلمة لغة عربية , وزارة التربية السورية

Yes, it is effective and works absolutely fine. .....

Honestly, I ask you all: how can you translate without CAT software nowadays? I cannot do it any other way. CAT software helps you maintain uniformity, consistency, not to mention speed. Of course, my specialty is technical translation, which means a lot of repetitions, a translation memory to follow, glossaries to build, and also working with other professionals.

Yes, it is very effective and works absolutely fine. You actually see things differently (different understandings of text etc) when you see it on the paper than on the computer. For some, it works fine both ways.

hanan alhajjar
by hanan alhajjar , translator , AlBayan Model School

I think the only difference is that through using the computer in translation you well do it faster and easier. But, if you want to concentrate more and to enjoy your work then use the pen and paper method.

As for myself, I will keep using this oldschool, but certainly NOT old-fashioned, method for as long as I can translate. One reason is that it's the base from which other methods came to life; another is that it stimulates your brain, enabling you to brainstrom and produce better translation in the process.

 

On the other hand, I can't seem to find any cons as long as the last version is being finalized using a pc-based word processor.

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