For student researchers and interview transcription.
Before you begin: Ensure your pre-recorded interview files are in a supported format (MP3, WAV, M4A, or MP4) and under the 5 GB file size limit. This step-by-step workflow will help you turn those files into accurate, formatted transcripts.
- Sign in to your Business Workspace
Log into Otter.ai using your provided university or student Business credentials. Using the web browser version on a desktop or laptop computer is highly recommended for faster uploading and easier editing compared to the mobile app.
- Import your interview files
Keep your computer awake during large uploads
Click the Import button in the top right corner of the Otter homepage. You can drag and drop your interview files directly into the window. Because you are on a Business plan, you also have the option to import files directly from a connected Dropbox account. You can drag multiple files at once; they will upload and process simultaneously.
- Tag your speakers
Crucial for Interview Transcripts
Once the file finishes processing, open the transcript. Otter attempts to separate voices automatically, labeling them as "Speaker 1," "Speaker 2," etc. Click on a speaker's placeholder name to rename them (e.g., "Interviewer" and "Participant A"). Once you tag a speaker, Otter will automatically update that speaker's name throughout the rest of the document.
- Review and edit the transcript
Play back the audio by clicking on any word in the transcript. The text will highlight as the audio plays. If you spot a transcription error, simply click into the text box, hit the Edit button (pencil icon), and type your correction. - Export your data
When your transcript is clean, click the More Options (three dots) icon at the top right of the screen. Select Export. Because you are on the Business tier, you can export your text as a DOCX, PDF, or SRT (caption) file, or export the audio directly if you need to store it alongside your research notes.