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Preparing Transcripts for the Ohio Memory
Online Scrapbook
Handwritten documents can be difficult to read, particularly in an online environment.
This can be due to such factors as poor condition of the original document,
fading ink, bleed-through, or illegible penmanship. A transcript enables the
user to view the document in a legible format. Thus, the Ohio Memory Project
encourages submissions of documents that are accompanied by transcripts.
A transcript is a "written, printed or typed copy" of a document, especially
a handwritten document. In preparing a transcript it is important to remember
that you are creating a readable copy, not editing the work. Also keep in mind
that:
- The text document should mimic the original handwritten work. Each line
of text (in the original and the transcript) should end at the same word.
- Each page of transcript should include all information in one page of the
original item.
- Occasionally transcriber comments may be required. For example, if a document
has numerous pencil scribbles, indicate that fact with a note enclosed in
square brackets [ ].
- If a word is illegible, write [illegible] in square brackets.
- If text is otherwise unusual, indicate how with such notes as [crossed out
words], [on back of letter], [written in pencil].
- If there is a misspelling in the original, the transcript should include
the same misspelling.
- You can use any text editing program such as WordPad, Edit Pad or Microsoft
Word.
- Save the transcription as a simple text file (ASCII). Examples of transcripts
can be seen in the African American Experience in Ohio, 1850-1920 at:
http://dbs.ohiohistory.org/africanam/det.cfm?ID=2958>
This document is also available as a downloadable Word or
PDF document.
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How to Participate
