What do you put when are transcribing and unsure of spelling proper name is it sic?

You're on the right track! "Sic" is used to indicate that a word or phrase is reproduced exactly as it appears in the original source, even if it contains errors.

Here's how you can use it in transcription:

1. Brackets and "Sic"

* Example: "The speaker said, 'I'm going to the store to buy some grocieres [sic].'"

2. Explanation in Parentheses

* Example: "The speaker said, 'I'm going to the store to buy some grocieres (spelling as heard)'."

3. "As Heard"

* Example: "The speaker said, 'I'm going to the store to buy some grocieres (as heard)'."

Best Practices:

* Use it sparingly: Only use "sic" when absolutely necessary to indicate an error in the original source.

* Provide context: If the error is significant, provide a brief explanation in parentheses.

* Be consistent: Choose one method and stick with it throughout your transcription.

Alternatives to "Sic":

* [sp?]: Indicates a possible misspelling, but the transcriber is uncertain.

* [phonetic transcription]: Use phonetic symbols to indicate how the word was pronounced.

Ultimately, the best approach depends on your specific needs and the context of the transcription.