MLMN

A practical guide by MLMN

Writing a brief for translation and copywriting

Writing a brief for translation and copywriting

A good language-service brief explains the reader and purpose before discussing word count. Use these questions to prepare work that can be quoted and reviewed clearly.

Work through the checklist

  1. Identify the target language, audience, publication channel and desired action. Supply a glossary and approved factual information, marking anything still uncertain.

  2. Clarify whether the job is translation, editing or original writing. Agree the treatment of names, terminology, tone and any local adaptation.

  3. Set deadlines, review responsibilities, revision limits and confidentiality terms. Assign a qualified reviewer for regulated or specialist claims.

A useful question

Can one text simply be reused for every audience?

Not always. Language, context and legal requirements may differ. Ask which adaptations are needed and who approves them before publication.