Training Data Annotators

12 min read

Effective training gets data annotators productive faster and reduces costly labeling errors in your training data.

Annotator Training Program Structure

  1. Orientation - Project context, ML model goals, and annotation tool overview
  2. Guidelines Review - Detailed walkthrough of all labeling documentation
  3. Tool Training - Hands-on practice with annotation interface and shortcuts
  4. Practice Set - Label gold standard data with immediate feedback
  5. Certification Test - Pass quality threshold before starting real work

Ongoing Annotator Training

Training isn't one-time. Schedule regular calibration sessions to maintain consistent annotation quality:

  • Weekly edge case review sessions
  • Monthly guideline updates based on lessons learned
  • Quarterly refresher training on core concepts