What is the preferred way to handle the term "because" in official transcripts?

The preferred way to handle the term "because" in official transcripts is to spell it out fully as "because." This approach maintains clarity and professionalism, which is essential in transcription work where precise language is crucial. Official transcripts need to represent spoken or written language accurately, avoiding slang and informal vocabulary.

Using the full word "because" eliminates any ambiguity that could arise from contractions like "cuz" or abbreviations such as "bc," which may not be universally understood or accepted in formal contexts. Additionally, replacing it with "as" could alter the intended meaning of the original statement, potentially leading to misinterpretation. Hence, maintaining fidelity to the original speech by fully spelling out the word supports the integrity of the transcript and ensures it meets the standards expected in official documentation.