Transcriptions

Transcriptions are processes of converting information from one form to another, or creating written or symbolic representations of spoken language, music, genetic information, or other data. In biology, transcription is the first stage of gene expression, where RNA polymerase reads a DNA template to synthesize RNA. Initiation requires promoter sequences and transcription factors; elongation adds nucleotides; termination ends the process. In eukaryotes transcription is regulated by chromatin structure and a suite of regulatory proteins, while in prokaryotes it is more streamlined.

In linguistics, transcription refers to representing spoken language with symbols. Phonetic transcription uses the International Phonetic Alphabet to capture precise speech sounds, often in narrow transcription with diacritics; phonemic transcription uses a broader set to represent contrastive sounds. Transcription may also be orthographic, preserving conventional spelling. Transcripts can be timestamped and labeled by speaker for dialogues and fieldwork; accuracy varies with method and purpose.

In music, transcription is the process of rewriting a composition for different instruments or styles, preserving core melodies and harmonies while adapting texture and range. It differs from arrangement, which may alter structural elements more extensively.

In media and data processing, transcription refers to converting audio or video content into text, a service used for accessibility, searchability, and archival purposes. Automated speech recognition and human transcription coexist with varying accuracy and turnaround times.

Transcriptions play a key role across disciplines by enabling storage, analysis, and dissemination of information in a form suitable for further use.