Our transcription tool has been designed to allow you to practise transcribing medieval manuscripts. The interface comprises two main parts: the manuscript image and the transcription boxes.

 

 

The MS digital image

The tool allows you to zoom in and out so that you are able to explore the manuscript in detail. You are also able to drag it within the image display window.

Those sections of the text which form part of the transcription exercise will be highlighted in orange. When you are ready to transcribe them, click on the first one (which will turn blue).

 

The transcription boxes

On the right-hand side of the screen you will find a number of boxes where you can enter the transcription of each of the extracts marked up on the page. Once you have clicked on your selected extract, the corresponding box will be highlighted and you will be able to enter your transcription. When you finish, click on the following box to continue.

After you have entered your transcription in the correct box and clicked on the following one, the background of the previous box will turn green (if correct) or red (if there are mistakes).

When you have entered all of the transcription simply click elsewhere on the page to find out whether the last extract is correct or not.

 

Tips and Special Characters

Underneath the transcription boxes you will sometimes find tips or notes giving you extra information about the extracts you are required to transcribe. These will only be visible when you select the relevant extract.

Finally, you are also provided with a limited number of special characters that you may have to use in your transcriptions. You simply need to copy and paste them into the relevant box.