If you want to become a transcriptionist, the first step is to get the right training. You don’t need a degree to pursue transcription because there are numerous free transcription training for beginners to help you acquire the right skills and knowledge.
This article looks at the four best free transcription training to enhance your understanding of transcription, techniques, and how to correct your transcript.
What is Transcription?
Transcription is the process of converting audio or voice recordings into text format according to the guidelines. As a transcriptionist, your role is to listen to the recordings and transcribe them into a Word document, ensuring accuracy and format as per the style guide.
Transcriptionist plays a key role in helping clients convert audio into written content. Some clients may use the format to record blog posts and books and get help typing them out to speed up the book writing process. Another example is when medical transcriptionists transcribe files to help healthcare facilities have clear documentation.
What to Consider Before Enrolling in Free Transcription Training
Online courses offer the flexibility to learn from anywhere in the world and allow you to fit the coursework into your schedule.
Before we look at some of the best free transcription training, there are some things to consider so that you can choose the best course for you.
- First, you need to consider your goals. For example, if you want to be a medical transcriptionist because you have a background in medical courses, then taking a beginner medical transcriptionist course is better than a generalist one.
- You may also want to consider your skill levels; the beginner courses are ideal if you are a total beginner. However, if you have some knowledge of transcription, then you can take an intermediate or an advanced course.
- You should also consider your available time because different courses have different timelines. Ensure that you have the necessary tools and equipment for the course. Check the particular course to see if they have specified any special equipment, such as a headset before you get started.
4 Best Free Transcription Training To Consider
Before applying for jobs, you need to get the proper training. There are numerous free resources online to help you get started, even without experience. Let’s look at the best transcription courses for beginners.
1. Free transcription workshop by Transcribe Anywhere
This transcription training is tailored for beginners. It teaches the basics of transcription, how to know if transcription is for you, and will share how to get started, a list of equipment you need, and how to get clients and grow your business. You will need to sign up using your name and email before accessing the free transcription training.
2. How to Transcribe and Excel In General Transcription by Coursesity
The basic free transcription training aims to teach you how to transcribe audio or video files with one or multiple speakers and learn basic techniques such as checking for grammar, punctuation, and sentence structure errors.
The one-hour self-paced course has about 45,000 enrolled students with a rating of 4.5/5. You can access the course on their website. The link redirects you to YouTube or Udemy for free.
3. Work at Home as a Medical Transcriptionist by the Medical Transcription Service
Learn the basics of medical transcription with a free webinar. The free transcription training gives you a step-by-step guide on how to become a medical transcriber, the earning potential, the equipment you need, how to find work, and success tips. It is a self-paced course with lifetime access.
4. Learn How to Transcribe from Skillshare
This transcription training is beginner-friendly because it goes over the basics of transcription and also shares how to improve your accuracy, how to format the transcripts, spelling, labeling speakers, tools you will need and also where to find transcription jobs.
To access the course, you need an account with SkillShare, which has monthly and annual subscription rates. You can access the course for free using the one-month free trial.
Bonus: Paid transcription training with a certificate
How to Become a Transcriptionist by Udemy
This paid transcription course goes the extra mile for people who want to get a completion certificate they can add to their CV.
Aside from the basic information available, you will get an introduction to transcription and how to transcribe audio and videos. It also helps you to create and update your cover letters and resume and gives you tips on how to find the best companies to apply to and how to grow into a business.
The course is self-paced and has over 7,000 enrolled students with a rating of 4.5/5. The price is $49.99, but there are often offers to get the course at $9.99, so you can always look out for that.
FAQs
- Where can I learn transcription for free?
You can learn transcription for free on YouTube, Coursesity, Skillshare, and Udemy. Once you get the training, practice with several audio files to create your samples, build your portfolio, and then apply for jobs.
- How do I train myself to be a transcriptionist?
It is possible to train yourself to be a transcriptionist at home with hundreds of free online courses and resources. Improve your typing skills, update your resume, and apply for transcription jobs.
- Is there a free transcription app?
Yes, several free transcription software can transcribe audio and video files automatically. One example is called Notta, which has an accuracy of 98.86%.
- How do I become a transcriptionist with no experience?
You can start as a transcriptionist without experience by getting the skills, doing enough practice, and then applying for general transcription jobs without formal education or previous work experience.
Final Thoughts
Becoming a transcriptionist is an excellent career choice for people with a keen eye for detail, an interest in the field, and an understanding and command of English. These free transcription courses are a good starting point to kickstart your career and help you learn what you need to improve your skills. Take advantage of the free training to increase your chances of getting hired. Ensure you do your best in every job to get long-term clients and referrals.
Happy earning!
Great advice, I am impressed and encouraged. At least I now know where to start my transcription journey. Thank you.
Great article, gives the perfect guidelines
Thank you for this, atleast I’m motivated with my transcription skills