How to Use Google Translate (and not be stupid)

OK, Tinky. I confess that I used Google Translate ALL the time for French class. Spanish and Latin were just so much easier for me, but French made me think more than anything else. Verb conjugators are fabulous tools as well.

Let's say you're in French II, III, or even IV. Let me remind you that Google Translate is not able to translate 100% of your phrase/sentence/whatever. Things to keep in mind:

• Before feeding the translator, have a rough idea of what the outcome should look like structure-wise (especially French).
• Make sure that the verb tenses you use are WITHIN YOUR GRASP. This means that using the pluperfect subjunctive in French while you're in Level II is NOT ACCEPTABLE.
• Use words that you with which you are familiar over words that look ridiculous. I find that there are less synonyms in other languages, but perhaps the reason is that I'm such a newb to them.
• Looking at the result, double check to see if this is something that would actually come out of your own brain. If not, use your judgment and try to be wise.

The translation service should not be used for times when you have no idea how to translate. This would indicate that you're in the wrong level of language (common sense). However, it is a shortcut and a way to save time when you're not sure how to structure a sentence.

Once you're done with your paper, try running it through Google Translate for English and see if the English matches your intentions. If sometime seems weird, check that part again.