Certified Translator - How to Become Very Good at Translating

Certified Translator - How to Become Very Good at Translating

Being a certified translator means one has gone through training to become certified, however these skills can fade over time. Becoming very good at translating and maintaining the ability to translate is something that takes practice, dedication, and time since a second language is not always easy to maintain. Good study and practice techniques start from the time one starts their training but must continue even as a translator is employed to ensure word or grammar lessons are not forgotten.

When training to become a certified translator, once must study vocabulary as much as possible to become good at translating. Making flashcards, typing or handwriting out vocabulary words, and using vocabulary in sentences are all great methods for studying and maintaining vocabulary in another language. Also recording yourself speaking and then listening to the recordings can be beneficial, since it gives you the chance to listen to and say the word. Studying or brushing up on vocabulary only needs to be done a few minutes each day to maintain a strong word base in a second language.

Another way to become very good at translating is to continually practice the language. While you may only use your translator certification for your work or other purposes, you can always practice on friends or family who may also speak the language. If possible, find native speakers of the language to talk to, and talk about the same topics you would in your primary language. This will help to make you more familiar with the language and use in the same way you will once becoming a certified translator. Even when you're not working as a translator, incorporating a second language into everyday life will make it much easier to remember all of its elements.

To become very good at translating, practice is the key. In addition to studying vocabulary and practicing as much as possible, reading your text is always the place to start for a quick brush up. Even after you have finished training, it won't hurt to break out the book for a grammar lesson or vocabulary reminder. Also, researching the language on the internet to find out any new or slang words is important to make sure you are up to date on the language you will be translating. This is especially important if you want to translate for children or young adults, since new slang terms are added to various languages constantly in these generations. Studying vocabulary, practicing speaking, and reviewing your text are all great tips for certified translators.

-By Adriana Tassini

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