This is the final part in our 6-part series on the basics of homeschool transcripts. Read part 1, part 2, part 3, part 4, and part 5.
By now we’ve reached the end of our whirlwind tour through building a homeschool transcript. Congratulations! The next big question: Where do you go from here?
Well, this is the part where you put your knowledge into practice by actually building a transcript. The first step is to collect the courses, activities, exams, and demographic information you’ll need.
But I’m guessing you have a big question floating around in your head at this point: what do I actually use to build this thing?
Use a spreadsheet
Some people opt to build their transcript using spreadsheet software like Microsoft Excel or Google Sheets. This can be a good approach since it gives you fine grained control over the final product. But entering the data is tedious, and setting up formulas to calculate weighted and unweighted GPAs can be an exercise in frustration.
On top of that, you’ll need some artistic flair to make the thing look reasonably good. If you’re anything like me, that could take a huge chunk of time. So while spreadsheets are an option, you have to be ready to devote a fair amount of time and mental energy to the process.
Buy a template
Another option is to purchase an electronic or pre-printed transcript template. There are templates for Microsoft Word or Apple Pages that can be purchased and completed on your computer. They tend to be expensive and the final result is limited by the template itself. Making style adjustments to these templates can be challenging, if not outright impossible.
Some companies still sell templates printed on physical paper. You can photocopy these templates and complete them with a typewriter, or you can scan them and complete them on your computer. The simplicity of this approach is nice, but this can be just as tedious and time consuming as building a transcript with a spreadsheet. These templates also tend to be out-of-date with the latest college and university requirements.
Surely there’s a better way?
The best option: Transcript Maker
Transcript Maker was born out of my brother Matt’s frustration with the limitations of the options described above. It offers an easy, inexpensive way to create an attractive high school transcript and is perfectly tailored to the needs of the homeschool and private school communities.
If you want a fast, straightforward way to create a high school transcript, sign up for a 14-day free trial today. No credit card required.
Try Transcript Maker for Free
Need help with something?
One of our favorite things is helping homeschool families build great transcripts. Got a question or want to share some feedback? We’re here for you. Call 844-487-2747 , email support@transcriptmaker.com, or connect on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
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