Guide · ~7 min read
SRT to text for translation workflows
Localization teams rarely want raw SubRip with arrows and milliseconds in the first pass. This guide covers when to strip timecodes, how to export dialogue safely, and how to merge translated text back into timed captions.
When to export SRT as plain text
- First-pass translation in Word, Google Docs, or a TMS
- Client review of dialogue only (no burn-in timing)
- Glossary building from existing finished subs
- Script comparison against original language SRT
Recommended handoff format
Export one line per cue, no index numbers, no timing arrows. Use our SRT to text tool to paste or open a file locally. After translation, re-time in your NLE or regenerate SRT from your TMS—do not assume line count stays identical if target language expands.
Quality checklist before you send
- Remove HTML tags or ASS-style overrides if present in source SRT.
- Merge duplicate consecutive lines from auto-captions.
- Note max reading speed (chars/sec) for the target platform.
- Share video reference or timecoded review link separately.
After translation returns
Import timed SRT from your CAT tool, or shift timing with SRT time shift if the new dub track differs. Check caption line length before publishing vertical cuts.
Privacy for client scripts
Unreleased series and legal review scripts should not go to random «upload your SRT» converters. Browser-local conversion keeps content on the freelancer’s device—document that in your SOW.
How to use
- Paste SRT or open a .srt file in the browser tool.
- Choose plain text with or without timecodes.
- Copy or download for your translator or TMS.
Frequently asked questions
- Why convert SRT to plain text for translation?
- Translators often work in CAT tools or Word without timing codes. Plain text avoids accidental edits to timestamps and reduces file format confusion.
- Should I include timestamps in the export?
- For translation-only handoff, strip timestamps. Keep timestamps if the reviewer must match lines to video timecodes.
- Is SRT to text the same as transcription?
- No. You already have subtitles; you are extracting dialogue. Transcription creates text from audio.
- Does the converter upload my file?
- Subtitle Kit runs in the browser. Your SRT is not sent to our servers for conversion.
- What about speaker labels?
- Standard SRT rarely includes speakers. If your file has custom formatting, clean it in the editor before export.