Codex Editor
Getting Started

Importing Source Texts

Learn how to import files, download Bibles, and add source content to your translation project

Adding source texts to your project is essential for translation work. Codex Editor supports multiple methods for importing content, from local files to online Bible downloads. This guide covers all available import options.

Import Methods Overview

Codex Editor offers three main ways to add source content:

  1. Import a File: Upload documents from your computer
  2. Download a Bible: Access online biblical texts
  3. Import a Spreadsheet: Use structured data from spreadsheets

Method 1: Import a File

Supported File Formats

  • Text Files: .txt, .rtf
  • Document Formats: .docx, .odt
  • Biblical Formats: .usfm, .usx
  • Other Formats: .csv, .tsv

File Import Process

  1. Access Import Option: Click "Import File" in your project
  2. Select File: Browse and choose your source document
  3. Configure Import Settings:
    • Text encoding (UTF-8 recommended)
    • Chapter and verse detection
    • Formatting preservation options
  4. Review Preview: Check how the text will be imported
  5. Confirm Import: Complete the import process

File Preparation Tips

  • Ensure files are properly formatted
  • Use consistent chapter and verse numbering
  • Remove unnecessary formatting that might interfere
  • Save files in UTF-8 encoding for international characters

Method 2: Download a Bible

Accessing Bible Downloads

  1. Select Download Option: Choose "Download a Bible" from import options
  2. Browse Available Versions: View the extensive library of biblical texts
  3. Filter by Language: Find versions in your source language
  4. Preview Content: Review sample text before downloading
  • English: ESV, NIV, NASB, Bible in Basic English
  • Greek: Nestle-Aland, Textus Receptus
  • Hebrew: Masoretic Text, Dead Sea Scrolls variants
  • Other Languages: Hundreds of translations available

Bible Download Process

  1. Select Version: Choose your desired Bible version (e.g., Bible in Basic English)
  2. Review Details: Check translation information and copyright
  3. Confirm Download: Click to download the selected version
  4. Wait for Completion: Download progress will be displayed
  5. Verify Import: Ensure all books and chapters imported correctly

Method 3: Import a Spreadsheet

Spreadsheet Format Requirements

  • Columns: Reference, Source Text, Target Text (optional)
  • References: Book, Chapter, Verse format
  • Encoding: UTF-8 for international characters
  • Structure: Consistent formatting throughout

Spreadsheet Import Steps

  1. Prepare Spreadsheet: Format according to requirements
  2. Select Import Option: Choose "Import Spreadsheet"
  3. Map Columns: Assign spreadsheet columns to project fields
  4. Configure Settings: Set reference format and text handling
  5. Review and Import: Check preview and complete import

Import Configuration

Text Processing Options

  • Verse Detection: Automatic verse boundary recognition
  • Chapter Breaks: Proper chapter organization
  • Formatting: Preserve or strip source formatting
  • Character Encoding: Handle international characters correctly

Reference Systems

  • Standard Numbering: Traditional chapter and verse numbers
  • Alternative Systems: Support for different versification schemes
  • Custom References: Define your own reference system

Quality Control

Post-Import Verification

  1. Check Completeness: Ensure all content imported successfully
  2. Verify References: Confirm chapter and verse numbering
  3. Review Formatting: Check text display and structure
  4. Test Navigation: Ensure proper book and chapter organization

Common Import Issues

  • Missing Content: Incomplete file imports
  • Encoding Problems: Character display issues
  • Reference Errors: Incorrect verse numbering
  • Formatting Issues: Unwanted formatting artifacts

Managing Multiple Sources (Coming soon)

Multiple Bible Versions

  • Import several versions for comparison
  • Switch between source texts during translation
  • Use parallel viewing for reference checking

Supplementary Materials

  • Add commentaries and study notes
  • Import lexicons and dictionaries
  • Include cultural and historical references

Best Practices

File Organization

  • Use descriptive filenames
  • Maintain consistent formatting
  • Keep backup copies of source files
  • Document import settings for team consistency

Quality Assurance

  • Always preview before final import
  • Test with small sections first
  • Verify critical passages after import
  • Maintain version control of source materials

Troubleshooting Import Issues

File Won't Import

  • Check file format compatibility
  • Verify file isn't corrupted
  • Ensure sufficient storage space
  • Try converting to a supported format

Encoding Problems

  • Save files in UTF-8 encoding
  • Check for special characters
  • Use appropriate fonts for display
  • Test with sample text first

Reference Errors

  • Verify reference format consistency
  • Check for missing or duplicate verses
  • Ensure proper chapter boundaries
  • Review versification scheme settings

Next Steps

After importing your source texts:

  1. Download Additional Bibles: Add more reference materials
  2. Configure Project Settings: Fine-tune your project
  3. Start Translation Work: Begin translating your content

Need Help?

If you encounter issues with importing:

  • Check our file format documentation
  • Review import troubleshooting guides
  • Contact support for technical assistance
  • Join community discussions about import best practices