Clients and potential clients often inquire about the differences between verbatim transcription vs non-verbatim transcription. They want to know what exactly those differences are and which kind of transcription they will need for their projects.
Potential clients often ask:
“Are verbatim transcriptions necessary for our needs?”
And
“What is the difference in cost between verbatim and non-verbatim transcriptions?”
Verbatim – definition
Corresponding word for word or letter for letter from the original source or text.
Below are some detailed examples that may help determine which method of transcription will meet your needs.
What is Verbatim Transcription?
Verbatim transcription captures every single word said. We will transcribe every syllable that we hear in an audio file.
When you need verbatim transcripts for your project tell us. We will have our transcriptionist type everything they hear on the recording. It will be a true reflection of exactly what was said. and a better reflection of how people actually speak.
For example, if someone stutters, has a false start to a sentence, uses filler words, or repeats words or phrases they would all be included in the transcript. Background noises, such as coughs or laughter can also be noted in your transcripts. Here’s an example of a statement made by a suspect in a criminal investigation using verbatim transcription:
Clients that require verbatim transcription are usually law firms, law enforcement agencies, and news outlets where the exact details are critical.
While verbatim transcription is exact, it can be difficult to read the final product.
What is Non-Verbatim Transcription?
Non-verbatim transcription – also known as “cleaned up” or a “clean copy” – excludes all unnecessary speech to make a transcript more readable without editing or changing the meaning or structure.
In a non-verbatim transcript, you’ll notice that all unnecessary speech will be removed. This will not change the meaning or structure of the conversation. Using the previous example, below is the same audio transcribed in a non-verbatim, cleaned-up format:
Was the suspect nervous or hesitant when they made this statement? Possibly. If so, notating how the suspect replied could be important in a future criminal or civil trial. Verbatim transcription also requires a considerable amount of time and effort to capture every single syllable and sound heard on the recording.
University and academic research, as well as general business audiences, are examples of industries that may not require precise details and often request cleaned-up verbatim transcripts.
How Verbatim Transcription Captures Emotion and Context
Capturing every single sound or utterance helps understand the speaker’s emotional condition at the time a statement is made. It will also be essential to show the context of how a word, phrase, or sentence is truly spoken.
In comparison, many clients opt to have a cleaned-up copy, or non-verbatim transcription. This method increases the overall readability of transcripts.
Exactly how a document is “cleaned up” varies by each specific client’s requests, which are often slightly different from each other.
In general, we would remove any “thinking noises” such as “um”, “uh”, “er,” “ah,” “like,” “okay,” “I mean,” and “you know.” These words or phrases often indicate an individual’s emotion when making an audio statement. These words usually are edited out of a cleaned-up or nonverbatim transcript.
We don’t speak like we write and don’t write like we speak.
It would be nice if all the audio files were perfect. Unfortunately, some files that require transcription were recorded when not everyone on the file speaks clearly, without an accent, or used unfamiliar words and phrases. That’s rarely the case, and why hiring a company that retains and uses qualified transcriptionists is essential.
At Ditto, our transcriptionists are highly trained for specific legal needs, such as for court transcription services. We believe that transcriptionists aren’t just typists. They are highly trained recorders of the spoken word. That’s why when a new client begins with our transcription service, we ask if they want verbatim or cleaned-up verbatim transcription.
Industry Use Cases for Verbatim and Non-Verbatim Transcription
Generally, below is a guide to industry-specific use cases of verbatim and non-verbatim transcriptions.
| Industry | Primary Use Case | Preferred Type |
| Legal / Law Firms | Depositions, court transcripts, interviews | Verbatim |
| Law Enforcement | Suspect interviews, interrogations, body cam audio | Verbatim |
| Medical / Healthcare | Doctor’s notes, patient records, compliance documentation | Non-verbatim (cleaned for clarity & compliance) |
| Academic Research | Interview analysis, focus groups, research transcription | Verbatim or Non-verbatim (based on study goals) |
| Corporate / Business | Meeting notes, internal training, reports | Non-verbatim |
| Media & Podcasting | Episode transcripts, SEO content, accessibility | Non-verbatim (polished readability) |
| Entertainment / Film | Subtitling, script continuity, closed captions | Verbatim |
Verbatim and Non-verbatim Cost Differences
Our pricing structure is usually based on a per-minute basis. Verbatim transcription is typically an additional $.25 per minute. However, many variables impact transcription pricing. That’s why we recommend speaking directly with one of our professional staff members to determine the best and most affordable structure for your specific needs.
Beware of other transcription services that advertise below market rates. All of our pricing structures are fair and affordable. Rest assured that we won’t try to upsell or talk you into a pricing structure that isn’t right for you.
Is Verbatim or Non-Verbatim Transcription Best for You?
Should I request verbatim or non-verbatim transcription? Ask Us. Our knowledgeable and trained staff will take the time to discuss your request and recommend the method that fits your needs and budget. We offer an easy-to-use calculator that allows instant pricing estimates for your legal transcription needs.
However, a critical thing for all clients to remember is that a transcriptionist is not an audio or document editor. Our job is to transcribe exactly what is said. Leaving out words if it increases readability if requested. We cannot, however, add words or change sentences around to make it sound better.
Whether verbatim or non-verbatim, Ditto Transcripts is America’s most trusted transcription service. It is the gold standard for top law firms, police departments, and Fortune 500s.
Verbatim transcription vs nonverbatim transcription: Which one do you need?
Many industries rely on transcription services to convert audio files to text documents. Examples include medicolegal transcription services, as well as specialized legal transcription services tailored to legal terminology and specific fields, such as law firms conducting depositions and law enforcement agencies conducting interviews with suspects.
Ditto Transcripts is a transcription services company based in Denver, Colorado. We provide fast, accurate, verbatim transcription and nonverbatim transcription. You tell us what you need and we’ll do it. For individuals, government agencies, and companies of all sizes. Call (720) 287-3710 today for a free quote!