Preparing content for translation

Preparing content for translation starts with a clear source. Short sentences, consistent terminology and fewer idioms reduce errors across languages. Before sending text for translation, mark parts that must stay untranslated: product names, addresses, codes and legal notes. Confirm every field is filled in the source language. Gaps in one language often remain empty in the others. Give translators context: page type, tone of voice and examples of earlier translations to follow.

After translations return, compare lengths. Blocks that are much shorter or longer often signal missing sentences or overly literal wording. Check links, dates and local number formats. These are frequently overlooked in multilingual publishes. A target-language editor should read the page as a user, not only as a terminology checker.

Finally, archive terminology decisions so the next translation stays consistent without restarting alignment from scratch. Avoid unexplained abbreviations; they often become opaque in translation. Check table values and units separately because they are frequently mis-localized. After translation, re-check CTA buttons: short labels are the ones that most often break layout. After translation, re-check CTA buttons: short labels most often break layout.