Transcripts

Transcripts are written records that capture spoken language or, in scientific contexts, the RNA molecules produced during transcription. The term covers a range of documents created to preserve, study, or verify spoken or genetic information.

Linguistic and media transcripts record conversations, lectures, interviews, court proceedings, and broadcasts. They may be produced verbatim, preserving every utterance, or edited for clarity. Common features include speaker labels, timestamps, and indications of nonverbal cues such as pauses or laughter.

Legal transcripts are official records of court hearings, trials, and depositions. Court reporters, stenographers, or voice-writing professionals prepare them, often with certified status. Transcripts may be used as evidence, for appeals, or to inform decisions, and privacy or copyright rules may apply.

Academic transcripts, or records, list courses taken, grades, credits, and degree information issued by educational institutions. They are used for admission, employment, and verification of credentials, and may include grade point averages and honors.

In biology, a transcript is the RNA copy produced from a DNA template during transcription. RNA polymerase creates mRNA, rRNA, or tRNA sequences that guide protein synthesis. Transcripts are central to gene expression and can be studied by sequencing.

Across contexts, transcripts support accessibility for people who are deaf or hard of hearing, aid researchers in qualitative analysis, and serve archival functions. Accuracy, language conventions, and metadata such as speaker IDs and timestamps are important quality considerations.

See also transcription.