What essential skill is needed for consecutive interpreting?

Consecutive interpreting relies heavily on the interpreter's ability to effectively listen and retain information while the speaker is conveying their message. This is where note-taking becomes an essential skill. During the interpreting process, interpreters typically listen to a portion of speech and then relay that information in the target language once the speaker has paused.

Good note-taking allows interpreters to capture key concepts, terminology, and essential details without losing track of the flow of the conversation. It helps interpreters remember and organize information accurately, thus improving the clarity and coherence of their interpretation. By employing effective note-taking strategies, interpreters can effectively bridge communication gaps, ensuring that the audience fully understands the message being conveyed.

In contrast, simultaneous listening is more relevant to simultaneous interpreting, while public speaking and document summarization are not central to the consecutive interpreting process. The priority in consecutive interpreting is on accurately processing and conveying spoken language through effective recall, supported by strong note-taking skills.