OK, so I apologize for going a little crazy there with my alliteration, but I simply couldn’t help myself.  However, the fact remains: I do feel that an interpreter should think about the pens used during their consecutive notetaking.  Some may argue that it’s the paper or the type of notebook used, but I disagree; I can make almost any type of paper or notepad work for me.  In fact, in extreme emergencies, I’ve “stolen” paper from the printer! (OK, so I ask the clerk for said paper, but my point still stands!)

Let me tell y’all a quick little story.  One time I was in the middle of direct testimony when all of a sudden, my brand-new gel pen stopped working.  No worries, I always set at least three pens out on my desk just for this very reason. There was another pen that I had recently purchased to check out how they write, and they do write beautifully…however, the gel ink started getting spotty and jumping on the paper of the steno pad that I was using.  I tried flipping between the two pens, and it was just a mess because not a single one would work for an extended amount of time.  I had to rely on my memory more than ever, while also trying to keep the segments short by periodically raising my hand.  Eventually, we came to a good point to take a recess, and I was able to breathe a sigh of relief.

When the judge came back, I kindly and with the utmost respect, asked if I could borrow one of his pens as the ones I had on my desk had ceased to work.  Now, I understand that is not the most professional thing to do, which is why I want everyone to learn from my mistakes.  Thankfully, this particular judge was extremely kind and not only gave me two pens from the cup at his desk full of pens, but he also told me this funny story:

His interview to become a judge was conducted over teleconferencing video at a location with a proctor.  He prepared for this interview by taking a whole box of brand-new pens.  When the time came, he took one pen out of the box, which didn’t write, so he put it aside and took out another pen…which also didn’t write.  He then took out another, and then another, and another, and another.  Eventually, he realized that all the pens in that box were dry!  He said his proctor was smirking and finally reached over and handed him a pen to use, one that was not dry. 

While I was lucky that I got a judge who had experienced something similar, that might not always be the case.  And even if most judges (or clerks) might not mind letting you borrow a pen, there really is no reason to go through that type of stress.  I learned something important that day: something as small as a pen can make a huge difference!

I know people have their pen preference, gel, ballpoint, felt, etc.  Each person can decide which works best for them.  With that said, there are five simple things one should consider when choosing a pen for you consecutive interpreting notes:

1. INK – Nice and smooth ink that does not skip and in a color you can easily see.
2. GRIP – You should be able to write for long periods, so make sure it’s comfortable.
3. RUNNING LOW – If you have a clear barrel where you can see how much ink is left, even better! Trust me; this gives you great peace of mind.
4. USE IT FIRST– before you use it in an interpreting setting, try journal, writing a letter, or simply doodle with the pen to make sure it is not dry, but also that you are comfortable with it.
5. MULTIPLE – There should be least two of said pens on your desk at all times. Even if you can see there is plenty of ink left, you should still have another pen ready just in case something happens. (And many things can happen, better to just not have that stress)

You have to make sure that the pen not only works but that it works for you!

As for my personal preference, well, as a pen fanatic (my collection of pens does not lie!), I’ve tried several different pens out for my notetaking.  My favorite has been the Pentel RSVP pens in Medium.  The ink is smooth, does not skip, and lasts a long time.  It is also very comfortable to write with for extended periods.  Compared to some other pens out there, it is relatively affordable.

I prefer to write in purple/violet ink, which I can buy 6 for about $8, and they can last me an entire year when used extremely frequently and daily.  They come in many other colors, including your traditional black and blue, and in both a medium and fine tip.   

Several of my colleagues prefer gel ink, and I understand why, as I usually like to write in gel ink myself in my planner, journal, or other notes (specifically MUJI gel pens and InkJoy Gel pens are my favorite).  However, for consecutive interpreting notes, I have found ballpoint pens work best for me.

Soon after this ordeal, I purchased an iPad to prevent disasters like these from happening.  Still, I always bring at least two violet RSVP pens with me and my notepad in case there is an issue with my iPad (we can’t always rely on technology), or if I have to go to a detention center where electronics are not allowed.  I will write about how I use my iPad and also the type of notebooks I prefer to use and why at a later time.  For now, I will leave you with these words of wisdom about what pens to use when consecutive interpreting!