FAQ
Q: How can I get started with transcription?
A: Your transcription journey begins with the valuable help resources found in the Tutorials and Field Guide, easily accessible within each workflow. For any queries or to join the conversation, the Talk Boards are at your service.
Q: What languages can I transcribe from the archive?
A: You're free to transcribe in any language you're comfortable with, but we recommend starting with your native language due to the calligraphy's added challenge in word recognition.
Q: Which languages are available for transcription?
A: Immerse yourself in the languages of Portuguese, Spanish, English, Catalan, Hungarian, Latin, French, Italian, and German.
Q: What types of documents are up for transcription?
A: You'll mainly explore letters and postcards, each holding its own unique story.
Q: What if I encounter something unreadable?
A: Handwritten text can be quite a puzzle to transcribe. The project team understands the challenge – even they sometimes struggle with handwriting. Remember that all transcriptions will undergo expert review. Please try to transcribe as much as possible on each page and use tags like "illegible," "uncertain," or "doubtable" to indicate uncertainty. For further assistance, consult the Tutorial, Field Guide, and the "NEED SOME HELP WITH THIS TASK?" link in the Classify section, and don't hesitate to seek guidance using the Talk feature if you're unsure about anything.
Q: I made a mistake in my transcription, but it's already submitted. Can I make corrections?
A: Unfortunately, once a transcription is submitted, it's set in digital stone and cannot be altered. But there's no need to worry! Transcription can be tricky, and perfection isn't expected. Every page will be transcribed by multiple volunteers, ensuring collective accuracy.
Q: What happens to the data and text after transcription?
A: Once the journey of transcription is complete, the images and transcriptions will be shared with the world online. For more details, take a look at the RESULTS tab.
Q: Can I participate using a mobile device or tablet?
A: While adventure knows no bounds, transcribing on a mobile phone is not recommended. Transcription is best experienced on a standard desktop or laptop computer with a mouse or trackpad, rather than a touchscreen device. If possible, a larger screen is suggested for easier document viewing.
Q: Why are there multiple pages in one transcription task?
A: Each transcription task corresponds to one image per letter page. Pages within a single letter are usually grouped together. Longer letters require more pages to fully capture their content.
Q: How can I save my work?
A: In this digital adventure, there's no saving feature. You're encouraged to click "Submit" to share your transcriptions, even if you haven't completed all the pages in the image set. Once a transcription is submitted – even if the entire page isn't transcribed – that page is marked as complete, and you won't encounter it again. If by any chance you do, it will be marked "Already Transcribed!"
Q: How can I reach out to the project team?
A: The best way to connect is through the project talk pages, which are regularly monitored, and a project team member will get back to you promptly. If you have a question and can't find the answer there, please reach out to citizenscience@mhnc.up.pt.
Q: Can I utilize data from this project for my own endeavours?
A: The data from the "Dear Monsieur Sampaio..." project will be made available to the scientific community and the general public when justified. Just reach out to the team members via email at citizenscience@mhnc.up.pt.
Q: What does PO Herbarium stand for?
A: PO Herbarium stands for the Herbarium of the University of Porto, an acronym that is a part of the Index Herbariorum.
Q: How can I explore more about the Herbarium and its archives?
A: Begin your exploration by visiting our home page (https://mhnc.up.pt) and follow us on Facebook and Instagram. If you wish to delve even deeper into the Herbarium and its Archives at the Core Pole of the MHNC-UP, feel free to contact us at visitas@mhnc.up.pt for information on how to visit us.
Q: How will the remarkable work of Zooniverse volunteers be acknowledged?
A: We are incredibly thankful for our dedicated volunteers! The usernames of these valued contributors will be celebrated and published in the coming months, acknowledging their important contributions to this enriching journey.