Best Practices for Optimal Results
Follow these guidelines to achieve the highest quality transcriptions and make the most of Notely's AI-powered features
Environment Setup
• Choose a quiet, controlled environment
• Minimize background noise and echoes
• Use soft surfaces to reduce sound reflection
• Close windows and doors to block external noise
• Turn off fans, air conditioning, and other devices
Microphone Techniques
• Position microphone 6-12 inches from your mouth
• Speak directly into the microphone
• Maintain consistent distance throughout recording
• Use a pop filter to reduce plosive sounds
• Test recording levels before starting
Pro Tip
Record a short test clip first to check audio quality and adjust settings as needed before recording your main content.
Format Recommendations
• MP3: 128-320 kbps, good balance of quality and size
• WAV: 44.1 kHz, 16-bit, highest quality
• M4A: 256 kbps, excellent for Apple devices
• AAC: 256 kbps, high quality with small file size
Quality Standards
• Sample rate: 44.1 kHz or higher
• Bit depth: 16-bit minimum, 24-bit preferred
• Bitrate: 128 kbps minimum for MP3
• Avoid heavily compressed formats
• Ensure clear, undistorted audio
Important Note
Higher quality audio files will result in better transcription accuracy, but will also take longer to process and use more of your monthly minutes.
Speech Clarity
• Speak clearly and at a moderate pace
• Enunciate words properly
• Use natural pauses between sentences
• Avoid mumbling or speaking too quickly
• Maintain consistent volume levels
Content Organization
• Structure your content logically
• Use clear transitions between topics
• Spell out acronyms and technical terms
• Provide context for complex concepts
• Use examples to illustrate points
Best Practice
Practice your content beforehand to ensure smooth delivery and reduce the need for extensive editing later.
File Organization
• Use descriptive file names
• Include date and topic in filename
• Organize files into logical folders
• Tag content for easy searching
• Keep related files together
Processing Efficiency
• Upload files during off-peak hours
• Process multiple files in batches
• Use appropriate file sizes for your plan
• Monitor your monthly usage
• Plan uploads around your schedule
Efficiency Tip
Consider splitting very long recordings into smaller segments for easier processing and better organization of your content.
Before Generating Summaries
• Review and edit transcriptions first
• Ensure accuracy of key terms
• Fix any obvious transcription errors
• Verify proper punctuation
• Check for missing words or phrases
Summary Customization
• Choose appropriate summary length
• Focus on key concepts and themes
• Include important examples and details
• Use summaries for study materials
• Export in your preferred format
AI Enhancement
The better the quality of your transcription, the more accurate and useful your AI-generated summary will be.
Daily Workflow
• Set aside dedicated time for processing
• Review transcriptions while fresh
• Generate summaries promptly
• Organize content immediately
• Track your progress and usage
Long-term Strategy
• Build a searchable knowledge base
• Create study materials and notes
• Share valuable content with others
• Use insights for future planning
• Continuously improve your process
Success Strategy
Consistency is key. Regular use of Notely will help you develop an efficient workflow and maximize the value of your content.
Recording Issues
• Recording in noisy environments
• Speaking too close to or far from mic
• Using poor quality equipment
• Recording at very low volumes
• Ignoring audio quality settings
Processing Mistakes
• Uploading files without reviewing
• Not editing transcriptions before summaries
• Ignoring file organization
• Waiting too long to process content
• Not backing up important files
Avoid These Issues
Taking shortcuts in audio quality or processing can lead to poor results and wasted time. Invest in good practices from the start.