Grammar, Punctuation, and Transcript Formatting Flashcards

In a court transcript, how should a verbatim interjection such as 'uh-huh' be rendered?

Answer: Exactly as spoken: 'Uh-huh.'

Court reporters must transcribe verbatim affirmative sounds exactly as spoken unless instructed otherwise.

When should a reporter use a colon versus a semicolon in a transcript?

Answer: A colon introduces a list or elaboration; a semicolon joins related independent clauses

A colon introduces explanatory or listed material, while a semicolon connects related complete thoughts.

How should a proper noun that is a compound title — such as 'Assistant District Attorney' — be capitalized in a transcript?

Answer: Capitalize all principal words when used as a formal title before a name

Formal titles are capitalized when they precede a person's name as part of the title.

In transcript formatting, what is the standard way to indicate a question was not completed?

Answer: Use a dash to show an interruption: 'Did you ever see the —'

An em dash indicates an abrupt interruption or incomplete utterance in transcript formatting.

Which sentence is punctuated correctly for a court transcript?

Answer: Q. Did you see the defendant? A. Yes, I did.

Standard transcript format uses 'Q.' and 'A.' followed by a space, with a comma after 'Yes' in the answer.

When a witness spells out a word during testimony, how should it appear in a transcript?

Answer: Exactly as spelled, with hyphens between each letter: T-H-O-M-A-S

When a witness spells aloud, each letter is transcribed separated by hyphens to reflect exactly what was said.