Think-Aloud Protocols

Abstract

In this article think-aloud protocols (TAPs) in translation studies are described and critically evaluated. Think aloud (TA) is a method of eliciting data on the psycholinguistic processes that go on in the translator's mind during a translation assignment. Empirical research projects with TA data are illustrated, and their results are reviewed. The constraints and limitations of TAPs are discussed, and alternative and supplementary methods are introduced. It is concluded that, especially in combination with other methods of data elicitation, such as keyboard logging and retrospective interviews, TAPs will serve the purpose of allowing a revealing glimpse into the translator's mind. © 2006 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.