How to Edit a Live Meeting Recording

Audio-file editors are as easy to use as word processing and spreadsheet programs.

Editing an audio recording of a meeting is an easy task since most recording and editing software functions very much like any word processor or spreadsheet program. Whether you are editing the recording to a specified duration, to remove long stretches of silence or crowd noise, or to make the audio clearer for the intended listener, most audio-editing software allows for much functionality and flexibility. Most audio-editing programs can be mastered in a short while when you realize that they function very much like other programs with which you are probably familiar.

Things You'll Need

• Computer
• Audio-editing software
• Headphones

Instructions

Preview the Audio File

1. Preview the audio file with headphones.

2. Keep a written running commentary, noting the key points in the recording, names of speakers, and any changes in the direction of the discussion.

3. Be aware that any cutting, pasting or moving of sections of your recording is going to affect your audio file's time-line index, and be mindful of this fact each time you make some change to the file.

Removing a Section of the Recording

1. Go to the beginning of the section in the recording that you want to edit.

2. Place your cursor at the beginning of the passage and then click the "Play" control.

3. Note both the start and end points and write down the time-stamp index in your notes, then stop the playback.

4. Place your cursor at the start point, then highlight the section by clicking and dragging the cursor to the end point. When you release the button, the section should be highlighted.

5. Right-click and choose "Delete."

Moving (Cutting-and-Pasting) a Section of Audio

1. Place the cursor at the beginning of the section you want to move.

2. Click and drag the cursor to highlight the desired section of the recording.

3. Right-click and choose "Cut."

4. Move your cursor to where you want to paste this section and click.

5. Preview the audio so that you are certain of the exact point where you want to paste your copied passage.

6. Relocate the cursor where it needs to be and click.

7. Right-click and select "Paste" if you are certain of the location.

8. Review the change and choose "Undo" from the file editing menu if the results are not exactly what you wanted.

9. Repeat the previous steps until you are satisfied with the change.

Tips & Warnings

• The audio effects available will vary depending upon the software. There are many programs available that will yield excellent results, so it may not be necessary to invest in a professional-grade program if your needs won't justify the expense.

• Make sure that you create a backup of your original audio file and place it somewhere else in your hard-drive in the event of too much manipulation of your new version of the file.

References

• Audacity Tutorial: How to Record and Edit Audio with Audacity

Resources

• From Boardrooms to Courtrooms -- Digital Conference Recording