How to convert lecture recordings to text?

To convert lecture recordings to text, start by making sure you are allowed to record and transcribe the lecture.

Then use the cleanest available audio file, such as MP3, M4A, WAV, MP4, or WebM. If the recording is noisy, try to use the original file rather than a compressed screen recording.

Upload the file to an audio-to-text tool, choose the correct language, and enable timestamps or speaker labels if you need them. After transcription finishes, review the text for names, technical terms, formulas, citations, and unclear sections.

Lecture audio often contains room echo, audience questions, slide references, and specialized vocabulary, so raw AI output should not be treated as perfect. Export the transcript as TXT, DOCX, PDF, SRT, or VTT depending on your goal.

If you want study notes, paste the transcript into an AI assistant and ask for headings, key concepts, definitions, examples, and review questions. For long lectures, split the transcript by section before summarizing.