Consecutive note-taking

Dick Fleming leverages his extensive background from the European Commission to illuminate the process of consecutive interpretation. The technique involves an interpreter engaging directly with the speaker, listening intently, and capturing critical details using a notepad during the speech. Once the speaker finishes, the interpreter relies on these precise notes to deliver an accurate translation, underscoring the essential role of both active listening and effective note-taking.

Decades of experience illustrate the pivotal role of interpretation devices in varied contexts. In early technical meetings, reliance on consecutive interpretation laid the foundation for effective communication. Later, remote assignments outside Brussels, including working on an ostrich farm in northern Greece, necessitated converting local languages to English without access to simultaneous facilities. Regularly carrying the device underscored the importance of preparedness in overcoming language barriers.

An interpreter relies on the indispensable tools of a pad and pen to ensure accuracy and efficiency. In urgent situations, substitute surfaces like a menu can suffice, though they offer a less reliable alternative. Interpreting without a notepad is likened to a trapeze artist performing without a safety net, underscoring the inherent risks. The effectiveness of the task hinges on having the proper tools readily available.

In consecutive interpretation courses, meticulously constructed speeches sharpen students' listening, comprehension, and analytical skills. A functional notepad is highlighted as an essential tool for handling extended and rambling discourse, in contrast to unprofessional, showy alternatives. This approach prepares learners to master core interpretative abilities before they transition to routine note-taking.

Distractions divert attention from the fundamental skills of listening, understanding, and analysis that are crucial for consecutive interpreting. Successful interpreting relies on emphasizing these core abilities rather than wasting focus on peripheral details. A stark warning is illustrated through a notepad metaphor, suggesting that neglecting clear instructions can damage interpreting skills. The message reinforces the necessity of a disciplined, focused approach to maintain clarity and accuracy in interpretation.

Listening, understanding, and critical analysis must come first. Writing notes before fully processing ideas often leads to incomplete and confusing records. Recording too early prevents comprehensive comprehension and results in rigid, verbatim text that is hard to rephrase naturally.

Poorly written notes risk obscuring key ideas, potentially leading to ambiguous recollections later. Focusing on capturing main ideas and the links between them is more effective than transcribing every word. Recording the structural essence of the speaker’s argument creates a meaningful analysis process and serves as a valuable memory aid.

Writing down key points creates a safety net that allows complete focus on the speaker's message. It is comparable to a trapeze artist performing with the reassurance of a backup net, ensuring no loss of critical information even if memory falters. Note taking is a supportive method intended to boost comprehension rather than being the ultimate goal of the communication process.

Effective interpretation relies on a personalized note-taking system that aligns with individual cognitive styles. Basic strategies shared by experienced interpreters offer useful insights, yet every interpreter must decide on a method that best suits their unique mental processes. This individualized approach to note-taking significantly influences what information is captured and remembered.

Notetaking adapts to personal preference, balancing words and symbols. Words capture core ideas and exact quotes, while symbols offer rapid, compelling cues. Choosing the note-taking language—whether the source, target, or a mix—depends on which facilitates clear reformulation, with some finding concise languages like English especially useful. Consistent use of tailored methods transforms notes into indispensable learning tools.