Transcript Editing Guide for Automated Drafts

Edit the transcript in passes

An automated transcript is most reliable when reviewed systematically. Begin with the recording available so uncertain passages can be checked rather than inferred.

Pass 1: consequential details

Correct names, organizations, dates, numbers, links, acronyms, and direct quotations. These errors create the greatest risk when text is published or used for decisions.

Pass 2: speakers and structure

Check every speaker change, then break long sections into readable paragraphs. Keep the wording verbatim when the transcript is an evidence record; for a cleaned interview, remove filler only under a clear editorial policy.

Pass 3: output-specific checks

For TXT, confirm headings and paragraph order. For SRT, preview timing, reading pace, and caption breaks against the final video. Do not use timestamps generated from an earlier edit.

Finish with a second review for sensitive, legal, financial, medical, academic, or high-visibility material. Read transcription accuracy and TXT vs SRT for related checks.