Audio transcription work | Transcription WFH

Infinity USB foot pedal setup for transcriptionist working from home

Audio Transcription | How to Become an Audio Typist

Audio transcription work involves converting spoken content into written text, making it accessible for various purposes such as documentation, content creation, and accessibility. This role requires strong listening and typing skills, attention to detail, and familiarity with transcription software. Transcriptionists can work in diverse fields, including legal, medical, media, and general business sectors. With the rise of remote work, transcription offers flexible opportunities to work from home or anywhere with an internet connection.

Table of Contents

Looking to work from home as a transcriptionist? Want to know how to become an audio typist, what equipment you’ll need, and how to price your services? You’re in the right place!

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the essentials of starting a transcription career from home – including foot pedals, software, transcription styles, and how to get paid.

What Is an Audio Typist?

An audio typist is someone who listens to audio recordings and types them into written documents. These documents can include:

  • Letters and reports
  • Interviews and seminars
  • Manuscripts and theses
  • Legal or medical records

With the rise of remote work, transcription jobs from home are now more accessible than ever.

Skills You’ll Need to Succeed

To become a successful audio typist, you should have:

  • Typing speed of 60–70+ words per minute
  • Touch-typing ability for faster transcription
  • Excellent accuracy and attention to detail
  • Strong grammar and language comprehension
  • High concentration for long audio sessions

Many of these are also core virtual assistant skills if you plan to offer transcription as part of a wider VA business.

💡 Tip: Try free online typing tests to boost your speed and accuracy.

Equipment You Need for Audio Transcription Work

The great news? You don’t need a full studio setup! Just a few key tools:

  • PC or laptop
  • Foot pedal (USB) for controlling playback hands-free
  • Headphones or headset (noise-canceling preferred)
  • Transcription software (e.g., Express Scribe)

🎁 Look for free or trial versions of transcription software to get started without upfront costs.

How to Set Up a Transcription Foot Pedal

Most modern pedals are plug-and-play:

  1. Plug in the USB foot pedal (e.g., Infinity USB Foot Pedal)
  2. Wait for automatic installation
  3. Link it to your transcription software (e.g., Express Scribe)
  4. Customize settings (play, rewind, fast forward) as needed

Popular foot pedals for transcription:

👉 See our full guide on the best transcription foot pedals

Styles of Audio Transcription

Always confirm the transcription style required by your client before starting. Here are the three main formats:

1. Verbatim Transcription

Captures everything – including:

  • False starts and repetitions
  • Pauses, emotions, background noise
  • Interruptions, stuttering, filler words

Used for legal proceedings, police interviews, and research transcripts.

2. Edited Transcription

Cleans up the audio to improve readability by removing:

  • Filler words (“uh”, “you know”)
  • False starts and background distractions

Used for speeches, webinars, and readable meeting minutes.

3. Intelligent Verbatim

Summarizes and paraphrases while keeping meaning intact. Excludes:

  • Coughs, laughter, background noise
  • Repetitions and filler phrases

Perfect for publications, interviews, and conferences.

How to Price Your Transcription Services

There are two main pricing models:

🔸 Per Audio Minute (Preferred by Clients)

You charge based on length of the audio recording (e.g., £1 per minute of audio). It’s easy to quote and keeps billing transparent.

You charge based on how long it takes you to transcribe. This is harder for clients to budget and may lead to inefficiencies. For broader guidance always research the rates offered by a selection of transcriptionists.

🧠 Remember: A 15-minute audio recording typically takes 60 minutes to transcribe (the 4x rule).

Things to Consider Before You Quote

Before accepting a transcription job, consider:

  • What style of transcription is required?
  • What is the expected turnaround time?
  • Is the audio quality clear?
  • Are there multiple speakers or strong accents?
  • Is the content technical?

🎧 Listen to a short audio sample to assess complexity and estimate time accurately.

Ready to Start Audio Transcription Work from Home?

With just a laptop, headset, and foot pedal, you can begin your journey as a freelance transcriptionist. Whether you’re looking for a side hustle or full-time remote career, transcription is a flexible and rewarding path.

Still sure – why not have a read through our 7 Things You Didn’t Know about Audio Transcription Work to find out more.

Conclusion

Audio transcription work from home is a growing opportunity for freelancers and remote workers. It’s affordable to start, in high demand, and perfect for detail-oriented individuals looking to expand into virtual assistant services.

Take the first step, invest in your tools, and begin offering transcription services today.