The translation process usually involves a combination of the following:
reading through original material and rewriting it in the target language, ensuring that the meaning of the source text is retained;
using Translation Memory software, such as Wordfast, memoQ, across, SDL Trados and Transit NXT, to ensure consistency of translation within documents and help efficiency;
using specialist dictionaries, thesauruses and reference books to find the closest equivalents for terminology and words used;
using appropriate software for presentation and delivery;
researching legal, technical and scientific phraseology to find the correct translation;
liaising with clients to discuss any unclear points;
proofreading and editing final translated versions;
providing clients with a grammatically correct, well-expressed final version of the translated text, usually as a word-processed document;
using the internet and email as research tools throughout the translation process;
prioritising work to meet deadlines;
providing quotations for translation services offered;
consulting with experts in specialist areas;
supplying subtitles for foreign films and television programmes;
retaining and developing knowledge on specialist areas of translation;
following various translation-quality standards to ensure legal and ethical obligations to the customer;
networking and making contacts