Study workflow
Convert a lecture recording into study text
Make an editable, searchable first-pass transcript from a class, presentation or lecture recording. Processing stays in the browser and can produce plain text or timestamped output.
Quick answer
Whisper Online downloads a whisper.cpp model, processes the selected media locally, lets you correct individual timed words, and exports the result without uploading the media file.
Step by step
The practical workflow
- 1
Confirm recording permission
Follow the institution's rules and obtain permission where required.
- 2
Choose the lecture file
Select a browser-readable audio or video recording.
- 3
Transcribe and review
Correct terminology, names, formulas read aloud and unclear passages.
- 4
Export study material
Download TXT for notes or a timestamped format when returning to the source matters.
Searchable notes with a link back to time
A lecture transcript can make spoken material easier to search and reorganize. Timed tokens help retain a reference to when a topic appeared in the original recording.
The transcript is a supplement rather than a replacement for the lecture, slides, assigned reading or instructor guidance.
Expect subject-specific corrections
Speech models can struggle with names, acronyms, equations, code, citations and specialist terminology. Review the text while listening to the source and use the detailed editor when timing also needs correction.
- Break very long recordings into manageable sections on limited devices.
- Use an English-only model for English lectures when appropriate.
- Keep timestamps in TXT when building time-linked notes.
- Respect copyright, privacy and classroom recording policies.
Accessible formats for different study tasks
Plain TXT is easy to search and annotate. SRT or VTT can accompany recorded course video. JSON is appropriate for custom study software that needs individual word timing.
Why use local transcription?
FAQ
Common questions
Can I transcribe a full lecture?
Possibly, but practical duration depends on browser memory and device performance. Smaller sections are more reliable on constrained hardware.
Will it understand technical terminology?
It can produce a useful draft, but specialist terms, formulas and names often need manual correction.
Can I include timestamps in the notes?
Yes. TXT can include timestamps, while JSON preserves timing for every token.
Does local processing make every recording permitted?
No. Local processing does not replace consent, copyright rules or institutional recording policies.
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