Learning to be a translator



Once you have decided that translation is the field of work you are interested in, there are many things that should be considered in order to become the most effective translator possible.  The following tips are relevant regardless of whether you choose to focus on Russian translation, German translation, Spanish translation or others.  One of the most important areas you should pay particular attention to is building your academic background and personal experience with languages to set you up for success in your career.

First, it is absolutely vital that anyone looking to dive into the field of translation prepare themselves adequately with work experience where possible and a relevant educational background in the chosen languages, translation and the area of linguistics.   The translator will need to speak a minimum of two languages fluently, though knowing two or more foreign languages is ideal.  In addition, a translator’s native language must typically be the sharpest because it is more often than not going to be the destination language that they will translate text or speech into.  Thus, consider refining your skills in your mother tongue in order to become a more effective and precise translator.

Next, decide what it is you would like to translate and try to narrow it down somewhat specifically because this will affect your preparation.  For example, if you want to be a Spanish to English translator and work in legal translation, you will need to focus on your abilities in Spanish and English as well as on your knowledge of law and legal terminology in both languages.

Lastly, get out there and work or volunteer!  You will need experience to both give you credibility and practice before you jump into your career.  One great option for doing this is going abroad because there are numerous opportunities around the world in translation that are also incredible for immersion experiences.  Set yourself up for success with a strong academic background first and then gain work experience in order to become a well-rounded, well-educated and reliable translator.

2 comments on "Learning to be a translator"

  1. These are some awesome tips!! Thank You!! I think I am going to focus on French Translation.

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  2. A willingness to learn and perform research, including maintaining and updating glossaries is a key skill for a translator whatever his or her experience.

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