CONSECUTIVE
INTERPRETING
Principles of Consecutive Interpreting:
Understanding
Dealing with different kinds of texts
Identification of main ideas
Analysis of links
Memory
Re-expression
1. Understanding
= understanding of ideas/ concepts, not words
interpreters are not encyclopedic dictionaries
take advantage of the direct contact with the
delegate
attention + concentration power training
clear mind + sound psychological condition
2. Different kinds of texts (discourses)
presenting logical arguments (2 points of view +
conclusion)
sequence of logical deduction (conclusion based on
speakers p.o.v.)
descriptive (event, scene, situation, etc.)
polemical speeches (purpose: to convince the audience)
rhetorical speeches (aim: to pay tribute to someone
through elegant style; no focus on the content)
elusive speeches (aim: hiding or not communicating
something)
3. Identification of main ideas
= interpretation behind mere words
ability to make a summary without omitting
significant points
(assimilation + discrimination)
4. Analysis of links
identification of the way ideas get connected
(logical consequence, cause, effect,
opposition, contradiction, contrast, etc.) connectors
5. Memory
STM vs. LTM
training: mnemonic technique
the most important parts to be remembered and
interpreted accurately: beginning and end of
speech
6. Re-expression
not expected to provide an academically perfect
interpretation
main concern: render the meaning clearly and
correctly
Interpreters are public speakers:
- speaking clearly
- articulating precisely
- eye-contact
- pleasant appearance
- look at notes only from time to time
- tone of the voice
Interpreters = communicators
Forming a professional interpreter: 3-4 years
NOTE-TAKING IN
INTERPRETING
WHY?
it helps at relieving the memory
NOTE-TAKING
WHAT?
main ideas; structure
links
verbs: tenses, modals, conditionals
numbers, dates, proper names
NOTE-TAKING
ON WHAT?
no loose sheets
a 15 cm X 20 cm note-pad with sheets clipped at
the top
only on one side of each sheet
NOTE-TAKING
HOW?
quickly but clearly
accurate
concise, non-literary manner
large characters
easily readable
unequivocal, unambiguous (abbreviations,
symbols)
NOTE-TAKING
reflecting the structure of the speech: separate the
elements from left to right and from top to bottom:
Links (left-hand margin)
lists: vertically
subject(s)
verb(s)
object(s)
NOTE-TAKING
developing your own style (symbols,
acronyms, Greek alphabet, mathematical and
geometric symbols, international car codes,
arrows, short-hand, invented signs, etc.)