In the world of consecutive interpreting, few skills are as essential—and as misunderstood—as note-taking. It is the quiet backbone of accuracy, confidence, and flow. Whether you’re interpreting a two-minute intervention or a ten-minute ministerial speech, your notes become your anchor.
But what does good note-taking look like? And how can modern electronic tools like the reMarkable tablet support interpreters without getting in the way?
Consecutive interpreting is not about memorising speeches. It’s about capturing meaning, structure, and links so that you can faithfully reproduce the message.
Let’s break it down.
Effective note-taking helps you:
Organise ideas instead of capturing every word
Manage long segments confidently
Reproduce logic and transitions between ideas
Reduce cognitive load so you can focus on delivery
Maintain accuracy even when a speaker is fast or information-dense
“Good notes complement short-term memory—they don’t replace it.”
When you register on our Note-taking for Consecutive Interpreting course, we take you through practical exercises to help you build your note-taking skills.
Interpreting notes are symbolic, minimal, and structural. They are not stenography.
Here are the key principles:
Note ideas, not sentences
You write logical units:
subject
verb/action
object
connectors (→, ↑, ≠, +, →→)
Use symbols and abbreviations
Symbols reduce writing time and improve clarity. Examples:
↑ increase
↓ decrease
≠ contrast
$ money/finance
∴ therefore
Δ change
Place ideas diagonally
Diagonal layout mirrors how ideas build on each other. It helps you see at a glance how points relate.
Highlight structure
Use spacing, arrows, bullets, brackets, or columns to show the logic of the speech.
Use memory + notes together
Notes should trigger what you heard, not replace active listening.
Can Interpreters Use Electronic Devices for Note-Taking?
Absolutely—if it is silent, discreet, and paper-like.
Many professional interpreters now blend traditional paper with modern digital tools, especially for online meetings, hybrid settings, and environments where sustainability and organisation matter.
reMarkable for Note-Taking
Below are the most effective digital tools for professional interpreters today.
reMarkable 2 – The Interpreter’s Favourite Paperless Notebook
The reMarkable 2 is one of the most loved devices among interpreters for three reasons:
✔ It feels like paper
The screen has friction, so your handwriting is natural and fast—crucial during fast-paced speeches.
✔ Zero distractions
There are no apps, notifications, or colours to pull your attention away. It’s a pure writing device.
✔ Silent and thin
No clicking sounds, bright lights, or bulky screens. It remains discreet in meeting rooms and booths.
✔ Excellent organisation
You can create notebooks for assignments, symbols, glossaries, and practice speeches.
Best for: interpreters who want paper-like writing and high professionalism without digital distractions.
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