Memory and Note-Taking as Key Elements in Consecutive Interpretation

Abstract

While the world is striding into a new age of not only technological advancement, but also international interaction, the increased necessity and demand for interpretation and professional interpreters make it a challanging specialty. Unlike in written translation, during oral interpretation the received information is not “material”. The quality of the oral translation largely and mainly depends on the characteristic features of the speech and the translator’s competence, as well as his personal and mental (psychological) aspects. It goes without saying that besides good knowledge of both source and target languages, good and trained memory and note-taking are the most crucial elements in interpretation, as they can be effective and practical for the interpreter’s multifaceted work.