When using the "Auto-Translation" feature in Teachme Biz, there's a possibility that translations may not be accurate depending on the expressions or notations in the original manual.
Even if you've created a well-organized manual, if the information isn't conveyed correctly, it could lead to defective products, complaints, or in the worst case, accidents.
In this article, we'll introduce key points to remember when creating manuals in Teachme Biz to ensure your original manual is translated correctly.
Who This Guide Is For
- Original manual language is Japanese
- When translation into multiple languages is anticipated
Key Points for Manual Creation
Notation: Use Japanese Correctly and Appropriately
Point #1: Use Kanji Appropriately
When using hiragana, there may be multiple interpretations during translation, or kanji may be mistranslated. Therefore, use kanji appropriately.
- Examples:
- kiru
- 切る (to cut)
- 着る (to wear)
- kiku
- 聞く (to listen)
- 効く (to be effective)
- 菊 (chrysanthemum)
- 行って貰う
- (Go somewhere and) receive (something)
- Have (someone) go (somewhere)
- Have (someone) perform (an action)
- kiru
Point #2: Clearly State Subject and Predicate
Make sure to clearly communicate who does what and how.
- Example:
- For a "confirm" task
- The operator confirms that the green lamp is lit
- Ask the inspector to check if the green lamp lights up
- For a "confirm" task
Point #3: Avoid Katakana Words That May Be Interpreted Differently in Target Languages
Katakana words may have different meanings or interpretations in different countries, so choose words that will be understood with the same meaning.
- Examples:
- "Image"
- Japanese: Often means what you're thinking about or can imagine
- English: Often refers to visual depictions like pictures or videos
- "Mosaic"
- Japanese: Strongly implies hiding or blurring something
- English: Strongly implies a collection of small things forming one large aggregate
- "Image"
Expression: Keep Language and Sentences as Simple and Clear as Possible
Point #1: Use Bullet Points for Explanations and Keep Sentences Short and Simple
Long sentences can make it difficult to identify breaks, which may result in unintended translations.
- Example
- ✕
- Replace the freshly made salad to the back and move the one that was already in the refrigerator to the front
- ◯
- 1. Place the freshly made salad in the back
- 2. Move the salad that was in the refrigerator to the front
- ✕
Point #2: Don't Use Honorifics
Respectful language, humble language, and polite language may not be translated properly.
- Example
- ✕
- The materials have been uploaded to Google Drive, so you may freely view them (using honorifics)
- ◯
- You can freely view the materials uploaded to Google Drive
- ✕
Point #3: Unify the Language Used
Since the source language is automatically detected, using multiple languages together may result in improper translation.
- Example
- ✕
- Press the button to Start
- ◯
- Press the button to launch
- ✕
Point #4: Enclose Industry Terms, Product Names, and Proper Nouns in "" (Double Quotes)
Enclosing terms in double quotes helps them be recognized as words, resulting in more accurate translations.
- Example
- ✕
- How to make karaage
- ◯
- How to make "karaage"
- ✕
※Also use the "Translation Dictionary" feature to specify how terms should be translated during auto-translation
Related: Register and edit translation dictionary (Web Browser)
https://teachme.jp/8/manuals/23251956
Point #5: Don't Make Japanese Manual Titles Consist Only of Kanji
If a Japanese manual title consists only of kanji, it may be recognized as a Chinese manual.
- Example
- ✕
- 焼成作業手順
- ◯
- 焼成の作業手順
- 焼成作業の流れ
- ✕
Marking: Avoid Excessive Editing and Make Content Understandable Through Visuals Alone
Point #1: Use a Common Language for Text Markings in Images and Videos
Text markings are not included in translation targets, so it's preferable not to use Japanese.
- Tips
- Use squares and arrows to clearly indicate
- Use colors to indicate importance
- Indicate important areas in "red", etc.
- Use numbers like "①, ②..." to indicate sequence
- When using text, use commonly understood words like "Check", "Point", "Click", etc.
- Example
Finally
- Before publishing a manual, check the translated state in the preview
- It's a good idea to have staff who are fluent in various languages or foreign staff review the content
How to Use the "Auto-Translation" Feature
The specific operation method of the "Auto-Translation" feature is explained in detail in the following online manual.
Related: Translate the manual (Web browser)
https://teachme.jp/8/manuals/20942327
Summary
How was it? Even if the "Auto-Translation" feature reduces the workload for creators in terms of creation and updates, if the content isn't correctly conveyed, the manual loses its purpose.
Keep in mind the points we've covered to create manuals that can be utilized globally!