What is scoping?
Scoping is editing transcripts for court reporters. The court reporter types the transcript on a steno machine and uses CAT (computer-aided transcription) software to translate it into English. Not to be confused with proofreading — which happens after the transcript has been edited — a scopist reads that transcript (on a computer screen) and edits the text for accuracy.
Major tasks include filling in missing words, researching spellings, and adding or correcting punctuation. It’s an important job because you need to make sure the transcript is word-for-word exactly what was said during the proceeding. A scopist also needs to know how to read steno notes (machine shorthand); how to put a transcript together; how to use CAT software, how to format a transcript; proper ethics; ergonomics; medical and legal terminology – and much more.