With the widespread use of tablets in our daily lives, it's becoming increasingly common to use them for work-related tasks, including translation. However, translating texts on a tablet can pose some challenges, especially if you're used to working on a computer with a full-sized keyboard and a larger screen. In this article, we'll explore some tips and tools to help you translate texts on a tablet effectively.
Is it possible to use CAT tools on a tablet?
Yes, it is possible to use CAT (computer-assisted translation) tools on a tablet, although it may not be as convenient or efficient as using them on a computer. Most CAT tools are designed for use on desktop or laptop computers, and they may not be optimized for use on smaller screens or touch interfaces.
However, some CAT tools have developed mobile apps or web-based interfaces that allow you to access the tool from your tablet. Additionally, there are several translation apps available for tablets that can help you translate texts quickly and easily.
Tips for translating texts on a tablet
Here are some tips to help you translate texts on a tablet effectively:
Use a keyboard: While tablets come with a built-in touch keyboard, it's much easier and faster to type using an external keyboard. You can connect a Bluetooth keyboard to your tablet or use a keyboard case that attaches to your tablet. A physical keyboard will make typing faster and more accurate, which is especially important when translating texts.
Use a stylus: If you prefer to write by hand, you can use a stylus to write on your tablet's screen. Many tablets come with a stylus, or you can purchase one separately. This can be a useful tool for making notes, highlighting text, or circling words that need to be translated.
Use a translation app: There are several translation apps available for tablets that can help you translate texts quickly and easily. Some popular translation apps include Google Translate, Microsoft Translator, and iTranslate. These apps can translate text in real-time, which is helpful when you need to translate a conversation or a message quickly.
Use cloud-based storage: When working on a tablet, it's important to have access to your files and documents from anywhere. Cloud-based storage services like Dropbox, Google Drive, and OneDrive can help you store and access your files from anywhere. This is especially useful if you need to share files with clients or colleagues.
Use a text-to-speech app: If you need to listen to the text being translated, a text-to-speech app can be helpful. These apps can read text out loud, which is helpful when you need to verify the accuracy of your translation. Some popular text-to-speech apps include Voice Dream Reader and NaturalReader.
Recommended CAT tools for tablets
While most CAT tools are designed for use on desktop or laptop computers, some have developed mobile apps or web-based interfaces that allow you to access the tool from your tablet. Here are some CAT tools that are compatible with tablets:
SDL Trados Studio: SDL Trados Studio is one of the most popular CAT tools on the market, and it has a mobile app called SDL Trados Live that can be used on a tablet. SDL Trados Live allows you to access your translation memories and terminology from anywhere, and it includes real-time collaboration features.
Memsource: Memsource is another popular CAT tool that has a web-based interface that can be accessed from a tablet. Memsource includes translation memory, terminology management, and project management features, and it's designed for use by freelancers and translation agencies.
Wordfast: Wordfast is a CAT tool that has a mobile app called Wordfast Anywhere that can be used on a tablet. Wordfast Anywhere is a cloud-based tool that includes translation memory, terminology