Transcripts for MAXQDA, with timestamps and speakers
Many researchers analyse in MAXQDA but would rather not type there. Themera creates the transcript and exports it in a form MAXQDA recognises, so you can jump from the text into the recording.
Transcribe 30 minutes free. No card needed.
Which timestamps MAXQDA recognises
According to the MAXQDA manual, MAXQDA reads timestamps automatically on import and then asks for the matching audio or video file. It recommends timestamps at least at the end of every paragraph. Supported formats include #hh:mm:ss-x#, as used by f4 and f5, and variants such as [hh:mm:ss]. MAXQDA also imports VTT and SRT subtitle files.
Exporting from Themera
Alternatively, download a VTT file, which keeps the short passages with start and end times.
- Check the speakers in the editor and give them consistent labels, for example I and P1.
- Under Download, choose Word (.docx).
- Set timestamps to "MAXQDA / f4 at the end of each paragraph".
- Download the file. Each speaker turn is one paragraph, with the label at the start and the timestamp at the end.
Importing into MAXQDA
In MAXQDA, open the Import tab, choose the Transcripts function and select "Transcript with Timestamps" if Themera is not listed. MAXQDA then asks for the media file. Pick the original recording and every timestamp becomes a clickable point in the audio. You can also import the transcript as text only.
Menu names vary between MAXQDA versions; the manual for your version is the reference.
Pseudonymised text, identifiable voice
Linking the recording in MAXQDA puts participants’ voices into your project even when the text is pseudonymised. Check that your consent covers this and where the MAXQDA project is stored. See GDPR and transcription.
Frequently asked questions
Does the audio have to be linked in MAXQDA?
No. If you cancel the media file dialog, MAXQDA asks whether to import the transcript without media.
Why is the timestamp at the end of the paragraph?
That is how f4 and f5 work: the timestamp marks the end of a turn. MAXQDA recommends timestamps at least at paragraph ends.
Do SRT or VTT work instead?
Yes. MAXQDA imports both, and Themera exports them with a speaker and times for every passage.
Related
Further reading
Transcribe 30 minutes free
No card needed. Upload a recording, check the transcript, download it as Word, text or for MAXQDA.