What is the average translation speed?

Knowing your translation speed is essential. It enables you to manage your workload and to quote appropriate amounts to your clients. But how does your translation speed compare to others? What is the average translation speed?

The latest Tomedes survey sought to address this question and the results are now in. Respondents shared their translation speed, with the most common speed being…

1,500 to 3,000 words per day

36% of respondents can translate between 1,500 and 3,000 words on a really good day, making this the most frequently chosen translation speed. Interestingly though, more than a quarter of translators felt that they could translated more than this when at the top of their game making… 

3,000 to 5,000 words

…the second most chosen translation speed. Some 26% of translators are able to translate at this speed. 

Slower translations

But not everyone can reach the dizzying heights of up to 5,000 words per day. More than one in five (21%) rank their translation speed as fewer than 1,500 words, even on a really good day. 

Fast translations

At the other end of the scale there is a fairly substantial contingent of super speed translators, capable of translating more than 5,000 words on a good day. Some 17% of respondents were in this category. 

How to boost your translation speed

There are numerous strategies you can employ to increase your translation speed, from learning to touch type to using speech recognition software. If you’re currently translating fewer than 1,500 words per day but looking to speed up, experiment with different methods to see which work for you. Sometimes even small differences can make a big change and an increase in your translation speed generally means an increase in your income, which is always good news. 

FAQs

What factors influence translation speed?

Several factors can influence your translation speed, including the complexity of the text, familiarity with the subject matter, and the language pair you're working with. Technical or specialized texts often require more time due to the need for precise terminology. Your proficiency in the source and target languages also plays a crucial role, as well as the availability of reference materials.

How does the use of translation tools impact speed?

Translation tools, such as Computer-Assisted Translation (CAT) tools and machine translation, can significantly enhance your speed. CAT tools help by segmenting texts, suggesting translations from previously translated segments, and ensuring consistency. Machine translation can provide a rough draft that you can then refine, speeding up the initial translation phase. However, these tools are most effective when used by skilled translators who can review and edit the output for accuracy.

How do beginner, experienced, and professional translators' speeds compare?

As a beginner, you might translate at a slower pace, around 180 words per hour, due to the learning curve and need for more thorough reviews. As you gain experience, your speed typically increases to about 240 words per hour. Professional translators, with their expertise and efficient workflows, can achieve speeds of up to 375 words per hour or more, depending on the text's complexity and familiarity.

What are the typical review processes for translations?

The review process is essential to ensure high-quality translations. Typically, it involves several steps:

1. Self-Review: After completing the translation, you should review your work for accuracy, consistency, and fluency.

2. Peer Review: Another translator or editor reviews the translation to catch errors and suggest improvements.

3. Final Proofreading: The final step involves proofreading to correct any remaining typos or minor issues. This thorough review process ensures the translation meets the required standards before delivery.

Final thoughts

Are you surprised by the translation speed survey results? Do translators generally work faster or slower than you had imagined? Share your thoughts via the comments.