What Are CAT Tools and Which Ones Are the Most Commonly Used in the Translation Market?

In the professional translation market, CAT tools (Computer-Assisted Translation Tools) are essential for ensuring productivity, consistency, and quality. Unlike machine translation tools like Google Translate, CAT tools are designed to assist human translators by organizing their work more efficiently.

In this article, we explain how these tools work, their main benefits, and which ones are the most commonly used in the market.

How Do CAT Tools Work?

CAT tools streamline the translator's work through various features. Here are the main ones:

1. Translation Memories (TM)

One of the key features of CAT tools is the ability to store translated segments in a database. Whenever the translator encounters similar or identical text, the tool suggests the previously recorded translation. This is particularly useful for technical or ongoing projects.

2. Text Segmentation

CAT tools divide the text into segments (usually sentences or paragraphs), making it easier to track progress and reducing the risk of omissions.

3. Glossaries and Termbases

They allow the creation of custom glossaries, ensuring that technical terms are translated consistently.

4. Integration with Machine Translation (MT)

Although not machine translation tools themselves, many CAT tools integrate with machine translation engines like DeepL and Google Translate, allowing translators to review and refine the suggested texts.

5. Quality Assurance (QA)

These tools detect common errors, such as inconsistencies or untranslated segments, helping translators maintain the final quality of their work.

6. Compatibility with Various Formats

CAT tools support formats such as Word, Excel, XML, and HTML, preserving the original document formatting.

Which CAT Tools Are the Most Widely Used?

Here are the top tools on the market, widely used by freelancers, translation companies, and agencies:

• SDL Trados Studio

  One of the most popular tools, offering advanced features and robust translation memories.

  
  

• MemoQ

  Features a user-friendly interface and support for collaborative projects. Ideal for freelance translators and agencies.

  
  

• Wordfast

  A lighter, more affordable solution available in desktop and online versions.e.

  
  

• Smartcat

  Combines CAT tool functionality with a collaborative platform. Excellent for teams and beginners.

  
  

• OmegaT

  Free and open-source, it’s a good option for beginner translators or smaller projects.

  
  

• MateCat

  Web-based and free, it’s ideal for quick translations and team projects.

  
  

• CafeTran Espresso

  Compatible with other tools, it’s designed for freelancers looking for a more economical solution.

Benefits of CAT Tools

Using these tools offers significant advantages, such as:

• Increased Efficiency: Speeds up the translation of long and repetitive texts.

• Consistency: Ensures terminological uniformity, which is crucial for technical fields.

• Cost Reduction: Many translators offer discounts for repeated segments.

• Simplified Collaboration: Enables the sharing of glossaries and memories among team members.

Conclusion

CAT tools are indispensable allies for professional translators, simplifying their work and ensuring high-quality results. Choosing the right tool depends on your needs, budget, and level of experience. Tools like SDL Trados, MemoQ, and Smartcat are among the most recommended, but free options like OmegaT are also excellent starting points.

If you want to optimize your translation processes, invest in a CAT tool that meets your demands!

• Get the ebook O Poder da Tradução - Ferramentas, Técnicas e Dicas Essenciais

• Visit the YouTube channel @viverdetraducao