Thread Module

Discussion

TranscriptionBrat

When should non-verbal sounds like laughter or sighs be included in a transcript?

Feb 15, 2026 - Posted by TranscriptionBrat in Transcription

1 Responses | 23 Views


In situations where a speaker pauses, laughs, or expresses emotion through sounds, how do you determine if those non-verbal elements are important to include in transcription?



Meghan on 02-18-2026

Non-verbal sounds like pauses, laughter, or sighs should be included only when they add meaning or help explain the speaker’s tone, emotion, or intent. If the sound changes how the words are understood or provides important context, include it in brackets (like [laughs] or [pause]). If it doesn’t affect the meaning and only reduces readability, it’s better to leave it out.

In order to comment or reply. You need to login. Please to login

Reply to this thread

Resources for Transcriptionists