Dictation vs Typing: A Professional Translator's Perspective

In today's digital age, the choice between typing and dictation using voice recognition has become a significant topic of discussion. Coupled with my experience as a professional translator, I often find myself weighing the pros and cons of each method for different scenarios.

Typing: A Well-Practiced Art

After decades of practice, I find typing to be a more reliable method for me. Typing requires a certain level of muscle memory and speed which, for many, often exceeds the convenience and accuracy of voice recognition software. Typing at rates over 100 words per minute (wpm) is feasible, and when corrections are considered, typing is often faster than voice dictation.

When to Use Each

The choice between typing and dictation depends on the nature of the task at hand and the environment in which it is performed. For example, when taking notes, pen and paper are usually the best option. For more detailed records such as minutes, a combination of voice recording and transcription software may be more efficient. However, for initial prose entry, I often opt for dictation software, and for reviewing, editing, and finalizing documents, a keyboard and mouse are generally more accurate and efficient.

Accuracy and Reliability of Voice Recognition

While technology continues to advance, voice recognition software has not yet reached a level of reliability that allows me to use it for finished work. Getting accuracy above 90% can be quicker using voice recognition, but for polished work, I still need to review and correct the document using a keyboard. Therefore, the key is finding the balance between speed and accuracy.

My Experience with Dragon

When Dragon software was available and installed, dictating long documents became easier and more efficient. However, even with advanced software, I am no slower at typing compared to using voice recognition. I can type at over 100 wpm, and considering the time required for corrections, voice recognition is often not faster than typing.

Transcription Work and Voice Recognition

From my days as a professional translator, I have experienced the value of speech recognition software. Initially, to combat repetitive stress injury, I started using Windows Speech Recognition (WSR), which is bundled with Windows and requires no additional investment. WSR not only halted the progression of RSI but also increased my productivity due to my average typing skills. As my productivity improved, it translated into more income.

I eventually upgraded to Dragon Professional, which allowed me to create macros that I could activate with voice commands. This further boosted my efficiency and productivity, ensuring that I could manage more projects and earn more money. My journey with voice recognition software highlights its immense potential in enhancing productivity and reducing strain on the body.

Ultimately, the decision between typing and dictation depends on the task at hand, the software available, and personal preferences. For tasks that require accuracy and a high volume of work, typing remains the superior method. However, for tasks where quick entry and flexibility are valued, voice recognition can be a valuable tool.