On Pre-task Preparation

The report examines problems of the author’s interpreting for a lecture in the program of “The Joint China-US Training Class for Afghan Diplomats” and explores the causes behind those problems,namely,insufficient pre-task preparation.On that basis,the report discusses about on-spot solutions to those problems and how to make pre-task preparation.The purposes of this report are: 1)to find out the author’s problems during interpreting and how insufficient preparation leads to those problems;2)to explore on-spot solutions for those problems;3)to discuss about what steps should be entailed in preparation.By comparing the author’s interpretation with the source speech,the report identifies some major problems such as misinterpretation,omission,redundancy and incoherence.Later,the report points out that the common cause behind the above-mentioned problems is insufficient pre-task preparation,which,to be more specifically,refers to lack of background knowledge,poor coordination between the interpreter and the speaker,etc.Then the report discusses about targeted solutions for those problems including making reasonable anticipations,employing translation strategies and having an on-spot discussion with the speaker during the interpretation process,so as to minimize the adverse effect caused by insufficient preparation.Finally,the report explores necessary steps of pre-task preparation,such as expanding extra-linguistic knowledge and having regular interpreting practice on the topic of the task.