Doc3 is a free, intuitive Computer-Assisted Translation (CAT) tool with an affordable Pro version, tailored for professional translators and small to medium-sized Language Service Providers (LSPs). It supports a wide range of standard translation file formats, including SDLXLIFF, MQXLIFF, and TRANSIT TPF, facilitating smooth integration with various client requirements. Doc3’s user-friendly interface focuses on essential features, eliminating unnecessary complexities to provide a straightforward translation environment. Let’s dive into the basic guide to Doc3’s Translation tool.

Doc3 CAT tool – translation editor preview

1. Setting up a new project

Starting a translation project in Doc3 involves several key steps:

• Project creation: After logging into your Doc3 account, navigate to the Project Management section and select “New Project.” Here, you can input project details such as the project name, source and target languages, and any specific instructions or deadlines. For a detailed walkthrough, refer to Doc3’s project management guide.
• File upload: Doc3 supports a wide range of file formats, including DOCX, XLSX, SDLXLIFF, and MQXLIFF. Upload the source files for translation, along with relevant translation memories (TMs) and glossaries. These resources ensure consistency and enable you to reuse previous translations effectively.
• Pre-translation processing: After uploading the files, Doc3 performs an integrity check for compatibility. The tool segments the text and pre-translates it using the provided TMs and glossaries. For untranslated segments, you can integrate machine translation (MT) services directly within Doc3, as outlined in Doc3’s feature guide.

2. Navigating the translation tool interface

Doc3’s translation interface is built for efficiency and simplicity, featuring:

• Editor: The main workspace displays source and target segments side by side, enabling efficient translation and editing. Real-time QA checks identify potential issues, allowing you to resolve them as you work. Learn more about the editor layout here.
• Segments panel: This panel provides a comprehensive view of segment statuses (e.g., untranslated, translated, reviewed), along with filtering options to simplify project management. Details here.
• Glossary and TM matches: Suggestions for terminology and TM matches are displayed contextually, allowing you to maintain consistency across the project.

3. Using translation memories and glossaries effectively

TMs and glossaries are central to Doc3’s functionality, ensuring consistency and efficiency.

• Cloud TM management: Doc3™ Pro offers robust cloud-based TM features, including “My General TM,” created automatically for users. This resource allows you to manage and access TMs seamlessly online. Learn more about TMs and their benefits here.
• Glossary management: Doc3’s glossary management tools help standardize terminology for specific clients or industries. You can customize and organize glossaries as needed, enhancing consistency across translations. Explore how glossary management works in the Doc3 guide.

4. Machine translation integration

Doc3 integrates with leading MT services to enhance your productivity:

• DeepL API connector: The tool offers a free DeepL API connector, which provides high-quality machine translation suggestions for segments not covered by your TMs.
• Other MT services: Doc3’s flexibility extends to compatibility with multiple MT engines, allowing users to select the best option for their projects. This feature supports a range of workflows, as outlined in the Doc3 guide.

5. Ensuring translation quality with real-time QA

Quality assurance tools in Doc3 help ensure translations meet professional standards:

• Real-time QA checks: Doc3 flags potential issues, such as terminology mismatches or formatting inconsistencies, while you work. This functionality minimizes post-translation edits and improves efficiency. Explore more about QA features here.
• Customizable style guides: Subscribers can use style guides to enforce client-specific rules or industry standards, ensuring polished and consistent translations. Learn about implementing style guides in the project management guide.
• Extended QA and seal of quality with CrossCheck®: As part of Doc3 Pro, CrossCheck® is offered as a real-time Translation QA checker and subscription service to all language professionals. It even offers a CrossCheck® Seal allowing you and others to quickly view and verify the checks performed. Freelance translators can also create their own CrossCheck® Seal, which can be displayed in their translator CVs or portfolios to showcase their commitment to quality.

6. Tracking progress and managing segments

Doc3 simplifies project tracking with user-friendly progress indicators and status markers:

• Progress indicators: The tool displays visual indicators showing the percentage of segments completed, allowing you to track your progress at a glance.
• Segment statuses: Each segment is clearly labeled (e.g., untranslated, translated, reviewed), making it easy to identify areas that need attention. See segment status management here.

7. Finalizing and exporting the project

After completing the translation, the final steps involve:

• Review and QA: Conduct a thorough review using Doc3’s QA tools to resolve any outstanding issues. This ensures your translation is error-free and meets quality expectations.
• Exporting files from the translation tool: Once reviewed, export the translated files in your preferred format. Doc3 ensures that formatting and original file integrity are maintained.

Translate smarter with an affordable translation tool

Translating projects in the Doc3 CAT tool is an efficient process that includes powerful features like cloud TM management, integrated MT services, and real-time QA checks. These tools work together to help professional translators deliver high-quality results while maintaining consistency and efficiency.

For further insights, explore articles on cloud TM management   translation project management. These resources provide in-depth guidance on making the most of Doc3’s robust capabilities.

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