5 things nobody tells you when starting with data annotation
Most people jump into data annotation expecting easy money. Here's what actually happens:
1. Quality over speed always wins
Platforms track your accuracy score religiously. One bad batch can restrict your account permanently. Slow and accurate beats fast and sloppy every time.
2. Instructions change constantly
What was correct last week may be wrong today. Always re-read guidelines before starting a new batch even if the task looks familiar.
3. Your first week will be slow
Learning the platform, understanding edge cases and building speed takes time. Don't measure your earnings in week one.
4. Specialization pays more
General text annotation pays $2-5/hour. Medical, legal or technical annotation pays $15-30/hour. Pick a niche early.
5. Never rely on one platform
Projects dry up without warning. Always have 2-3 platforms active simultaneously.
What else do you wish someone told you earlier?