Frequently Asked Questions

Q: I have a document to translate, where do I start?
If you have a document to translate or edit, the best idea is to send me an email, preferably together with the document. Just let me know:
•    What text you want translated?
•    How long is it?
•    When do you need it
•    Is there anything else you desire or require?
I’ll get back to you with some questions or a quote and proposed deadline. That’s it. You can leave the rest to me.

Q: What’s the best way to get in touch?
The best way to contact me is to send me an email. No need to worry about the time difference between you and me. I am usually quick to reply.

Q: What is your availability?
Being an independent freelancer, I am available any time, as long as I do not have any prior engagement with other clients. Please check with me whenever there is any requirement.

Q: What is your daily capacity?
Due to quality reasons, I can, on average, translate approximately 2,000 English words a day. The actual turnaround time may vary, depending on the complexity of the text and my availability. For other kinds of work, it will be determined on a case-by-case basis.

Q: Which target language should I choose, Simplified Chinese or Traditional Chinese?

Simplified Chinese and Traditional Chinese are two standard character sets of the Chinese written language. Simplified Chinese is the official written language used in Mainland China and Singapore, while Traditional Chinese characters are currently used in Hong Kong, Macau and Taiwan. The biggest difference between Simplified Chinese and Traditional Chinese lies in the number of strokes in each character, with the former having fewer strokes in most cases. Although Simplified Chinese shares many words with Traditional Chinese, there are differences in terms of grammar, vocabulary and style. 
 

Q: What file formats do you work with?
I work with a dozen of file formats, e.g. .docx, .xlsx, .pptx, .xliff，.html, .idml, just name a few. If your file format is not listed, simply email me and I’ll let you know whether I can do it or not. And rest assured, the document that you receive back will look exactly like the one you sent me.

Q: Which software or programs can you work with?
Other than standard Microsoft Office programs, I can work with the following programs (the list is non-exhaustive): MemoQ; SDL Trados; Memosource.

Q: Why does the site not include fixed rates? 
A fixed translation rate per word makes it easy for a client to estimate the price of their project, but it also has its drawbacks. Translation is not just a question of replacing one word by another. Translation may require many hours of research, and transcreation and editing require a completely different approach. No two projects are the same! I prefer to charge a fair amount for each and every project. Therefore, I do not apply a fixed rate per word. Once I receive the required files and information, I draw up a quote for the project, specifying the costs. This keeps things clear and fair for all parties.

Q: Can you provide samples of your work?
Samples may be compiled on request, subject to my availability.Some websites I translated have been published.

Q: What if I have questions once my project has been completed?
Send them to me. I am devoted to ensuring client satisfaction with quality work. If you have questions, doubts or comments, just let me know.