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Version: 1.x

Internationalization

Getting Started with Crowdin as a Translator

Joining a Project​

  • Invitation by Project Owner: Typically, you will receive an email invitation from the project owner. Click the link in the email to join the project.
  • Public Projects: For open-source or public projects, you can join through the Crowdin website by searching for the project and clicking on the "Join" button.

Setting Up Your Account​

  • After accepting the invitation or joining a project, create an account on Crowdin if you don't already have one, or log in to your existing account.
  • Configure your profile settings, including language preferences and expertise.

Navigating the Crowdin Interface

Dashboard​

  • Once logged in, you’ll see your dashboard. Here, you can access all projects you’re part of. Click on a project to start working on it.

Project Page​

  • The project page contains all the files and languages available for translation. You’ll see a list of files or folders, depending on the project's structure.

Language Selection​

  • Select the language you will be translating into from the language menu to view only the tasks relevant to you.

Translating on Crowdin

Choosing Files​

  • Click on a file from the list to start translating. Files may be segmented into strings or sentences, depending on how the project owner has set it up.

Translation Interface​

  • The interface is split into three main areas:
    • Source Pane: Shows the original text.
    • Translation Pane: Where you input your translations.
    • Comments and Suggestions Pane: You can see comments from other translators or the project owner, as well as machine translation suggestions and translation memory matches.

Submitting Translations​

  • Enter your translation in the translation pane for each string. You can also vote on other translations if the project settings allow this.
  • Use the "Save" or "Submit" button to submit your translations. Some projects might have a validation step where another translator or a proofreader checks your submissions.

Using Tools​

  • Translation Memory (TM): Crowdin stores previous translations in the TM and suggests them when similar or identical strings appear.
  • Glossary: Use the project's glossary to ensure consistency in terminology.
  • Machine Translation: Often enabled, providing automatic translation suggestions that you can use as a starting point.

Collaboration and Communication

  • Comments: If unsure about a translation, you can leave comments for others or ask questions directly on the string.
  • Issues: Report or view issues related to specific translations or strings for project managers to address.

Best Practices for Translators

  • Consistency: Stick to the project’s glossary and style guide.
  • Engagement: Actively participate in discussions and respond to comments.
  • Quality: Double-check your translations for spelling, grammar, and contextual accuracy before submitting.

Conclusion

Crowdin offers a robust environment for translators, equipped with tools and features to make the translation process efficient and collaborative. By following the outlined steps and engaging actively with the project community, you can contribute effectively to translation projects on Crowdin.