Time Coding
Comprehensive guide to time coding and timestamp formatting in transcripts.
Time Coding
At times we will be asked to timecode a transcript. This can range from every 15 seconds to every few minutes.
#
Placement Rules
- Timecodes should be placed in the left hand (speaker) column from about 50 seconds upwards
- Timecodes in the speaker ID column should have no brackets around them
- Make sure to leave a line between the timecode and the previous speaker
#
Frequency Guidelines
- More frequent timecodes should be embedded within the body of speech – for example, 30 second timecodes
- Speaker change timecodes or every question timecodes should also be placed in the left-hand speaker ID column (above the speaker ID)
- Again, should have no brackets around them
#
Natural Break Rule
In the case of a time code every minute / two minutes etc. don't break up sentences in order to place a time code. Wait until there is a natural break in speech where you can feasibly start a new paragraph and then place the current time code there. Time codes don't have to be dead on the minute, but at the nearest natural point in time.
#
Special Cases
There may be occasions where we are asked to omit the interviewer's speech and replace this with a timecode. This should be formatted as follows:
Interviewer: [Timecode]
Respondent: Yes, we did this because it made it easier for...
Ensure that if the interviewer's question lasts for 15 seconds or more that you use a start and end timestamp.