speech to text to write a book

Table of Contents

Why Use Speech Recognition Software?

• Dictation vs. Transcription

Why Use Dictation?

Why use transcription.

• Do You Need Special Recording Equipment?

The Best Transcription Services

The 5 best dictation software options, the best dictation software for writers (to use in 2024).

A lot of Authors give up on their books before they even start writing .

I see it all the time. Authors sit down to write and end up staring at a blank page. They might get a few words down, but they hate what they’ve written, harshly judge themselves, and quit.

Or they get intimidated by the prospect of writing more and give up. They may come back, but if so, it’s with less and less enthusiasm, until they eventually just stop.

In order to break the pattern, you have to get out of your own head. And the best way to do that is to talk it out.

I’m serious. Who ever said that you have to write your book? Why not speak it?

Authors don’t need to be professional writers. You’re publishing a book because you have knowledge to share with the world.

If you’re more comfortable speaking than writing, there’s no shame in dictating your book.

Sure, at some point, you’ll have to put the words on a page and make them readable, of course.

But for your first draft, you can stop focusing on being a perfect writer and instead focus on getting your ideas out in the world.

In this post, I’ll cover why dictation software is such a great tool, the difference between dictation and transcription, and the best options in each category.

When Authors experience writer’s block , it’s not usually because they have bad ideas or because they’re unorganized. The number 1 cause of writer’s block is fear.

So, how do you get rid of that fear?

The easiest solution is to stop staring at the screen and talk instead.

Many Authors can talk clearly and comfortably about their ideas when they aren’t put on the spot. Just think of how easy it is to sit down with colleagues over coffee or how excited you get explaining your work to a friend.

There’s a lot less pressure in those situations. It’s much easier than thinking, “I’m writing something that thousands of people are going to read and judge.”

When that thought is in your head, of course you’re going to freeze.

Your best bet is to ignore all those thoughts and really focus on your reader . Imagine you’re speaking to a specific person—maybe your ideal client or a close friend. What do they want to know? What can you help them with? What tone do you use when you talk to them?

When you keep your attention on the reader you’re trying to serve, it helps quiet your fear and anxiety. And when you speak, rather than write, it can help you keep a relaxed, confident, and personable tone.

Readers relate to Authors’ authentic voices far more than overly-crafted, hyper-intellectual writing styles.

Speaking will also help you finish your first draft faster because it helps you resist the desire to edit as you go.

We always tell Scribe Authors that their first draft should be a “vomit draft.”

You should spew words onto a page without worrying whether they’re good, how they can be better, or whether you’ve said the right thing.

Your vomit draft can be—and possibly will be—absolute garbage.

But that’s okay. As the Author of 4 New York Times bestsellers, I can tell you: first drafts are often garbage. In the end, they still go on to become highly successful books.

It’s a lot easier to edit words that are already on the page than to agonize over every single thing you’re writing.

That’s why speech recognition software is the perfect workaround. When you talk, you don’t have time to agonize. Your ideas can flow without your brain working overtime on grammar, clarity, and all those other things we expect from the written word.

Of course, your spoken words won’t be the same as a book. You’ll have to edit out all the “uh”s and the places you went on tangents. You might even have to overhaul the organization of the sections.

But remember, the goal of a first draft is never perfection. The goal is to have a text you can work with.

What’s the Difference between Dictation & Transcription?

If you know you want to talk out your first draft, you have 2 options:

• Use dictation software
• Use a transcription service

1. Dictation Software

With dictation software, you speak, and the software transcribes your words in real-time.

For example, when you give Siri a voice command on your iPhone, the words pop up across the top of the screen. That’s how dictation software works.

Although, I should point out that we aren’t really talking about Apple’s Siri, Amazon’s Alexa, or Microsoft’s Cortana here. Those are AI virtual assistants that use voice recognition software, but they aren’t true dictation apps. In other words, they’re good at transcribing a shopping list, but they won’t help you write a book.

Some dictation software comes as a standalone app you use exclusively for converting speech to text. Other dictation software comes embedded in a word processor, like Apple’s built-in dictation in Pages or Google Docs’ built-in voice tool.

If you’re a fast speaker, most live dictation software won’t be able to keep up with you. You have to speak slowly and clearly for it to work.

For many people, trying to use dictation software slows them down, which can interrupt their train of thought.

2. Transcription Services

In contrast, transcription services convert your words to text after-the-fact. You record yourself talking and send the completed audio files to the service for transcription.

Some transcription services use human transcription, which is exactly what it sounds like: a human listens to your audio and transcribes the content. This kind of transcription is typically slower and more expensive, but it’s also more accurate.

Other transcription services rely on computer transcription. Using artificial intelligence and advanced voice recognition technology, these services can turn around a full transcript in a matter of minutes. You’ll find some mistakes, but unless you have a strong accent or there’s a lot of background noise in the recording, they’re fairly accurate.

Dictation is the way to go if you want to sit in front of your computer and type—but maybe just type a little faster. It’s especially useful for people who want to switch between talking and typing.

It’s probably not your best option if you want to speak your entire first draft. Voice recognition software still requires you to speak slowly and clearly. You might lose your train of thought if you’re constantly stopping to let the software catch up.

With dictation software, you may also be tempted to stop and read what the software is typing. That’s an easy way to get sucked into editing, which you should never do when you’re writing your first draft.

I recommend using dictation as a way to shake up your writing process, not to replace typing entirely.

If you want to get your vomit draft out by speaking at your own natural pace, we recommend making actual recordings and sending them to a transcription service.

Transcription is also preferable if you’re being interviewed or if you have a co-author because it can recognize multiple voices. It’s also a lot more flexible in terms of location. People can interview you over Zoom or in any other conferencing system, and as long as you can record the conversation, it will work.

Transcription is also relatively cheap and works for you while you do other things. You can record your content at your own pace and choose when you want a computer (or person) to transcribe it. You could record your whole book before you send the audio files for transcription, or you could do a chapter at a time.

Transcription may not work well for you if you are a visual person who needs to see text in order to stay on track. Without a clear outline in front of you, sometimes the temptation to verbally wander or jump around can be too great, and you’ll waste a lot of time sorting through the transcripts later.

Do You Need Any Special Recording Equipment?

No. Most people don’t need anything special.

Whether you’re using transcription or dictation, don’t waste your money on fancy audio equipment. The microphone that comes with your computer or smartphone is more than adequate.

Some people find headsets useful because they can move around while they’re speaking. But you don’t want to multitask too much. If you’re trying to dictate your book while you’re cooking, you’ll be distracted, and the ambient noise could mess up the recording.

Scribe recommends 2 transcription services:

Temi works well for automated transcription (i.e., transcribed by a computer, not a human).

They charge $.25 per audio minute, and their turnaround only takes a few minutes.

Their transcripts are easy to read with clear timestamps and labels for different speakers. They also provide an online editing tool that allows you to easily clean up your transcripts. For example, you can easily search for all the “um”s and remove them with the touch of a button.

You can also listen to your audio alongside the transcript, and you can adjust the playback speed. This is very useful if you’re a fast talker.

If you prefer to work on the go, Temi also offers a mobile app.

Rev offers many of the same features as Temi for automated transcripts. They call this option “Rough Draft” transcription, and it also costs $.25 per audio minute. The average turnaround time for a transcript is 5 minutes.

What sets Rev apart is that they also offer human transcription. This service costs $1.25 per minute, and Rev guarantees 99% accuracy. The average turnaround time is 12 hours.

Human transcription is a great option if your audio file has a lot of background noise. It’s also great if you have a strong accent that automatic transcription software has trouble recognizing.

1. Google Docs Voice Typing

This is currently the best voice typing software, by far. It’s driven by Google’s AI software, which applies Google’s deep learning algorithms to accurately recognize speech. It also supports 125 different languages.

One of the best aspects of Voice Typing is that you don’t need to use a specific operating system or install any extra software to use it. You just need the Chrome web browser and a Google account.

It’s also easy to use. Just log into your account and open a Google Doc. Go to “Tools” and select “Voice Typing.”

A microphone icon will pop up on your screen.

Click it, and it will turn red. That’s when you can start dictating.

Click the microphone again to stop the dictation.

Voice Typing is highly accurate, with the typical caveats that you have to speak clearly and at a relatively slow pace.

It’s free, and because it’s embedded in the Docs software, it’s easy to integrate into your pre-existing workflow. The only potential downside is that you need a high-quality internet connection for Voice Typing, so you won’t be able to use it offline.

2. Apple Dictation

Apple Dictation is a voice dictation software that’s built into Apple’s OS/ iOS. It comes preloaded with every Mac, and it works great with Apple software.

If you’re on an iPhone or iPad, you can access Apple dictation by pressing the microphone icon on the keyboard. Many people use this feature to dictate texts, but it also works in Pages for iPhone. It can be a useful option for taking notes or dictating content while you’re away from your desktop.

If you’re on a laptop or desktop, you can enable dictation by going to System Preferences > Keyboard.

Apple Dictation typically requires an internet connection, but you can select a feature in Settings called “Enhanced Dictation” that allows you to continuously dictate text when you’re offline.

Apple Dictation is great because it’s free, it works well with Apple software across multiple devices, and it generates fairly accurate text.

It’s not quite as high-powered as some “professional” grade dictation programs, but it would work well for most Authors who already own Apple products.

3. Windows Speech Recognition

The current Windows operating system comes with a built-in voice dictation system. You can train the system to recognize your voice, which means that the more you use it, the more accurate it becomes.

Unfortunately, that training can take a long time, so you’ll have to live with some inaccuracies until the system is calibrated.

On Windows 10, you can access dictation by hitting the Windows logo key + H. You can turn the microphone off by typing Windows key + H again or by resuming typing.

Windows Speech Recognition is a good option if you don’t own a Mac or don’t use Google Docs, but overall, I’d still recommend one of the other options.

4. Otter.ai

Otter allows you to “live transcribe” or create real-time streaming transcripts with synced audio, text, and images. You can record conversations on your phone or web browser, or you can import audio files from other services. You can also integrate Otter with Zoom.

Otter is powered by Ambient Voice Intelligence, which means it’s always learning. You can train Otter to recognize specific voices or learn certain terminology. It’s fast, accurate, and user-friendly.

Otter is based on a subscription plan with basic, premium, and team options. I’ll only mention the basic and premium plans since most Authors won’t need the team features.

The free basic plan allows 600 minutes of transcription per month, which should be plenty—but the maximum length of each file is only 40 minutes. You also can’t import audio and video, and you can only export your transcripts as txt files, not pdf or docx files.

The premium plan is $8.33 per user per month, and it grants you access to a whopping 6,000 monthly minutes, with a max speech length of 4 hours. More importantly, you can import recordings from other apps and export your files in multiple formats (which will make your writing process much smoother).

Dragon is one of the most commonly recommended programs for standalone dictation software. It has high-quality voice recognition, but that high quality comes with a hefty price tag. The latest version, Dragon Home 15, costs $150, but it’s not compatible with Apple’s operating system. Mac users have to upgrade to the Professional version ($300).

With all the solid free options available—several of which are better than Dragon—I don’t recommend buying Dragon.

The Scribe Crew

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The Best Dictation and Speech-to-Text Apps for Writers (2024)

by Guest Blogger | 0 comments

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If you're more comfortable talking through your ideas than typing them out, you may want to try one of these speech to text apps for writers. Dictation and transcription provide quick solutions for everything from working through interviews to recording story ideas and chapters. Check out our guide by guest writer Jamie Biggs and see which one is the best fit for you! 

Welcome to one of our favorite community members and writers Jamie Biggs who loves to use dictation as she writes. You can read more about Jamie at the end of her article, and for a full run-down of the Best Book Writing Software, see our post here . 

What is dictation software?

Dictation software is a type of speech-to-text technology that allows you to create written documents without having to type or write them out. The voice recognition software converts your speech into text and then saves the document in an easily shareable format.

It’s perfect for writers, students, and professionals who need to get their ideas down quickly. With dictation software, you can save yourself time by speaking your thoughts rather than writing them out.

Why use dictation?

Want an edge in writing? I gave speech-to-text dictation a try, and find it’s a must-have for anyone who wants to up their creativity game and work smarter.

Whether you're writing fiction or nonfiction, prepping interview transcripts for ghostwriting, or just trying to get your ideas out of your head fast, dictation software can expedite the process.

Many people find it easier to express their thoughts and ideas aloud, and speaking is quicker than typing (in most cases). It's perfect for writers who want to record their story ideas, and it can also be a useful tool to overcome writer’s block. When you’re having trouble organizing your thoughts, speaking those ideas instead of facing a blank page can be helpful.

Dictation is also an effective way to decrease physical strain. Typing for long periods can lead to physical discomfort or repetitive strain injuries. If you're spending hours behind a keyboard, consider trying it out. Dictation software provides an alternative method of text input, helping to ease strain on the fingers, hands, and wrists.

And of course, the convenience of writing on the go. Dictation software on mobile devices allows you to capture ideas or notes while on the move without needing to stop and type. We can capture writing during a walk outside, commuting to and from work, or even while waiting in line at a gas station using an app on your phone. 

Features of a strong dictation app

There are a few features that I looked at when testing these apps out. Here are the features I found most important: 

Accuracy: The most critical factor in any dictation app is its ability to accurately convert spoken words to written text. A great app needs accurate voice recognition for diverse accents and speech styles.

Real-time Transcription: Real-time transcription can provide writers with instant feedback on their dictation, enabling them to identify areas where they need to improve their writing skills.

Punctuation and Formatting: An app’s punctuation and formatting controls can make it possible for you to speak naturally without naming each punctuation mark.

Customization: The ability to control saving, sharing, and navigating through voice commands is available on some dictation apps. Customization options, such as language models or personalized dictionaries, can also improve accuracy. Adding an unusual name or unfamiliar word to your personalized dictionary will save you editing time.

Let's take a look at the best dictation apps I tried for writers. Note: some of the links below are affiliate links. 

The best dictation apps for writers:

Dragon naturally speaking (dragon professional individual).

Dragon NaturallySpeaking (now called Dragon Professional Individual) has been a leading force in the speech-to-text software market for a long time. The tool provides high accuracy, advanced punctuation and formatting options, support for multiple languages, and can be easily integrated with writing tools.

Initially, there is a learning curve for using this software. You will need time to train it to recognize your voice and speech patterns accurately. Learning how to use voice commands effectively can also take time.

Nuance Communications, the makers of Dragon NaturallySpeaking no longer supports iOS. They offer it for Windows only. However, they have an Apple application called Dragon Anywhere Mobile that is available on both iOS and Android devices. It is a scaled-down version of the Windows application.

I don't have a Windows PC and have not used the Dragon Professional Individual version for Windows. However, I use the Dragon Anywhere Mobile App on my iPad Pro.

The menu is easy to navigate and aside from a couple of missed words, it does a good job transcribing my voice.

Dragon is a little pricey compared to the other apps, but its level of accuracy and customization options might make it an investment worth making as a writer.

Dragon NaturallySpeaking – single user license Price: $699.00

Dragon Anywhere Mobile App Price: $150 yearly subscription or $15 monthly subscription

Here are some of the main pros and cons for the Dragon Apps: 

Otter.ai transcribes speech in real-time, making note-taking easy during interviews, or brainstorming sessions. Writers can easily record and organize content with this feature and not forget important details.

Otter.ai integrates with writing apps, allowing easy transfer of transcribed text. Writers can keep their writing workflow while using speech-to-text technology for productivity and creativity.

You can access Otter.ai by visiting their website (otter.ai) using a web browser on your computer. It is also available for both iOS and Android devices.

I found Otter.ai to be user-friendly, and it accurately transcribed speech. It automatically added punctuation, and did not require me to give punctuation commands as I dictated. 

The app added a time stamp with every start and stop. It was designed for meeting transcription and can identify multiple speakers within the meeting.

Writer’s will need to copy and paste the transcribed text into an editing software application to edit and remove the time stamps. If you are on a budget, the Basic subscription is a great place to start.

Otter.ai is available as a monthly or annual subscription based on monthly transcription minutes. BASIC – 300 monthly transcription minutes; 30 minutes per conversation. Price: Free

PRO – 1200 monthly transcription minutes: 90 minutes per conversation. Price: $99.99 yearly subscription or $16.99 monthly subscription

Otter.ai is a strong place to start if you're new to speech-to-text apps, as you can try those free features before committing to the larger subscription. 

Speechnotes

Speechnotes offers a user-friendly interface for quick and effortless dictation. Real-time transcription provides instant feedback, improving productivity and usability.

This website application was easy to navigate allowing me to immediately jump in and begin. You have the option to speak punctuation as you go, or to go back and insert by clicking the needed punctuation from the side menu.

You can dictate offline with Speechnotes, but with limitations. Multiple languages are supported, catering to diverse backgrounds and accommodating native language dictation.

It also offers a few ways to move your newly transcribed document from the dictation screen to upload into a Google Doc, Word Doc, or txt file. It also gives you the option to email or print your work from the same screen.

I liked this app. If you get past the ads at the bottom of the screen, then the price is definitely right.  But if ads are bothersome for you, the Premium subscription is very affordable.

Speechnotes Plans Dictation – Online dictation notepad and voice typing Chrome extension Price: Free

Dictation Premium – Premium online dictation notepad and voice typing Chrome extension. Support from the development team. No Ads. Price: $1.90 per month

Transcription – Pay as you go – no subscription Audio & Video recordings. $0.10 per minute of audio

Google Docs Voice Typing

Google Docs Voice Typing is a built-in feature of Google Docs that offers real-time transcription, offline support, and extensive language options. It also integrates seamlessly with Google's productivity suite, making it a convenient choice for writers who use Google Workspace.

Google Docs Voice Typing is a built-in feature of Google Docs, available to all Google account users at no additional cost. It's easily accessible and user-friendly for Google Docs users.

The feature transcribes spoken words into text in real-time.

Text-to-Speech with Google Voice is easy to set up from the Google Docs file menu. Select “tools” from the menu bar, and select “voice typing” from the drop down.

It is simple to use. click the microphone to start and stop transcribing. Google Voice Typing accurately transcribed for me, but required me to give punctuation voice commands which slowed the process, but you can even dictate and apply text styles using voice commands.

If you regularly use Google Docs for writing, this is can be easily added to your work in progress.

Google Docs Voice Typing Price: Free with any Google account

The price is right for this one, but it doesn't have the additional features or accuracy and sensitivity as some of the other paid app services. 

Apple Pages Dictation

Apple Pages Dictation offers users a hands-free writing experience with real-time transcription. It supports multiple languages and dialects.

There is some set-up required in order to utilize speech to text on Apple Pages. You will need to access settings from your Apple menu, click keyboard settings and turn on Dictation. Once this is completed, voice transcription is activated by double tapping the control key on the keyboard.

It has basic punctuation command capabilities like adding a comma or period. But it was not able to add a new paragraph or new line on command. I had to stop and add the new line manually and then restart by double clicking the control key again.

If you are testing the waters with speech to text, this is an option worth experimenting with if you are an Apple user. Pages comes with every Apple system.

Apple Dictation Price: Included in all Apple Devices

What is transcription?

Transcription and dictation are two related yet distinct processes. While dictation involves directly speaking into a program that instantly converts your words into text on the page, transcription follows a slightly different path.

For transcription, you provide the app with an audio file, which it then meticulously transcribes, transforming spoken content into written form. 

Why use transcription?

Using a transcription service offers a straightforward and user-friendly alternative voice recognition software. Transcription services eliminate the need to memorize and execute specific voice commands for punctuation, formatting, and editing. Instead, you simply upload your audio files, and the service handles the transcription process, delivering accurate written content.

This approach is particularly advantageous for individuals who may not be comfortable with or have the time to master complex voice commands. Transcription services cater to a wide range of users, including those without technical expertise. The process is as simple as submitting an audio file and receiving a transcribed text in return.

In contrast, mastering speech-to-text commands requires familiarization with a set of commands, which might vary across different platforms or software. It involves a learning curve that might not align with everyone's preferences or requirements.

Ultimately, utilizing a transcription service streamlines the process, making it accessible to users of varying technical skill levels. It allows individuals to focus on content creation, without the need to navigate intricate command structures, resulting in a smoother and more efficient transcription experience.

Do you need any special recording equipment?

In most cases, special recording equipment isn't necessary for using voice dictation and transcription. Modern voice dictation software is designed to work with the built-in microphones of devices like smartphones, laptops, and tablets. These microphones are generally sufficient for capturing your spoken words accurately. However, if you're in an environment with significant background noise, using an external microphone or a noise-canceling headset can improve the accuracy of the transcription.

For professionals who require high-quality recordings, such as podcasters or journalists conducting interviews, investing in a good-quality external microphone might be beneficial to ensure clear and crisp audio. Additionally, using a quiet environment without excessive ambient noise can enhance the accuracy of voice dictation.

Ultimately, while specialized recording equipment can enhance the quality of your recordings, it's not a strict requirement. 

The best transcription services for writers

Writers are increasingly turning to transcription services as invaluable tools to streamline their work processes and enhance productivity. Here are four online transcription services, features and benefits to consider.

Rev is a popular transcription service that provides accurate and quick transcription for audio and video files. They offer human-generated transcriptions and have options for different turnaround times.

Rev's interface is user-friendly and easy to navigate. select the type of order you would like to place and then upload your file.

Rev Services Pricing:

TranscribeMe

TranscribeMe offers both automated and human-powered transcription services. They specialize in providing accurate transcriptions for various industries.

Uploading an audio file was simple and straightforward, drag and drop.

TranscribeMe Services Pricing:

Happy Scribe

Happy Scribe offers both automated and human-assisted transcription services. They also provide options for translating transcripts into different languages.

The website is easy to navigate and upload your audio file. They offer the first 5 minutes of your audio file transcribed for free, giving you an opportunity to test drive their service.

Happy Scribe Pricing:

Scribie is another transcription service that offers human-generated transcriptions. They focus on providing accurate transcriptions and offer a variety of turnaround options.

 I have used Scribie for my own transcription needs and found the service quick and accurate. The have recently changed their pricing to a flat rate for human verified transcripts, no longer offering the AI transcribed files option. 

Scribie pricing:

Useful tips for dictation or transcription

By following these tips, you can make your dictation and transcription processes more efficient and accurate, ensuring that your spoken content is accurately transformed into written text.

Dictation tips

• Speak Clearly and Calmly : Enunciate your words clearly and speak at a moderate pace. Avoid speaking too fast or mumbling to ensure accurate transcription.
• Punctuation and Formatting Commands : Learn and use voice commands for punctuation (“period,” “comma,” “new line”) and formatting (“bold,” “italics”) to maintain proper structure in your text.
• Practice Makes Perfect : Familiarize yourself with the voice recognition system's response time and accuracy by practicing dictation with shorter passages before tackling longer content.
• Break Down Complex Sentences : For complex sentences, break them into smaller, manageable phrases to enhance accuracy.
• Proofread and Edit : After dictating, proofread and edit the transcribed text for any errors or discrepancies that might have occurred during dictation.
• Minimize Background Noise : Choose a quiet environment to reduce background noise that could interfere with accurate transcription.

Transcription tips

• Use Quality Audio : Provide clear and high-quality audio file recordings for accurate transcription. Minimize background noise and ensure the speakers' voices are distinct.
• Speaker Identification : If multiple speakers are involved, indicate speaker changes or use timestamps to differentiate speakers during transcription.
• Provide Context : Give transcribers context by sharing any relevant information about the subject, speakers, or terminology used in the recording.
• Accent and Jargon Awareness : If you have an accent or are using industry-specific jargon, consider using a transcription service or software that's familiar with these nuances.
• Review and Edit : After receiving the transcription, review and edit it for any errors or inconsistencies. Sometimes, context-based errors can occur.
• Time Management : Transcribing can be time-consuming. Consider using transcription services or software to expedite the process, especially for longer recordings.
• Backup and Security : Keep your audio recordings secure and backed up to prevent loss of valuable content.
• Regular Breaks : If you're transcribing for extended periods, take regular breaks to avoid fatigue and maintain accuracy.

Speech to text apps for writers can be incredibly useful tools, allowing them to quickly transcribe their spoken words into written form. By following these simple tips, you can make sure that your dictation and transcription processes are more efficient and accurate.

Pick a favorite paragraph or scene from your work in progress and convert it using a speech-to-text software or a transcription service.

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How to Dictate a Book in 2022

Authors… step away from the keyboards. It’s time to meet your newest writing companion: the microphone.

Sure, the pen used to be mightier than the sword. But we all know that’s been (predominantly) replaced by the keyboard in recent decades. Now, there’s an even newer tool in town. The rise of next-generation technology as a 2022 publishing industry trend has caused dictation to emerge as the latest method for writing books.

What is book dictation?

Simply put, book dictation turns talk into text. By using tools like a microphone or computer application, authors can write more quickly and easily than ever before.

Whether you’re writing a book for the first time or are a seasoned indie author, learning how to dictate a book can save you time and energy. As we know, the indie publishing game is filled with enough challenges – so finding any way to make this process easier is a big win for writers.

What authors utilize book dictation?

If we haven’t convinced you of the power of dictation quite yet, just know that choosing this method puts you in good company. Dictation has been one of the best-kept secrets of popular authors for centuries. Some of the biggest names out there – Winston Churchill, John Milton, Agatha Christie, and even Voltaire – did it. 

Thankfully, technology has grown more sophisticated since the times of Voltaire. As we’ll cover in our section on the latest in dictation software , it’s easier than ever to choose this process for writing or brainstorming your next book.

How to Dictate a Book: The Pros and Cons

Are you now asking yourself how to dictate a book, and what it takes to get started? If so, you’ll want to familiarize yourself with the pros and cons before you do.

How to Dictate a Book: The Pros

It’s been proven that there are numerous benefits to writing a book by dictation. We’re about to break down the main points for you, but ultimately book dictation is worth considering if you are looking for some much-needed simplicity in the book writing process.

Save time in what is already a long, arduous process

Indie publishing isn’t just about writing. You also have to build email lists , create promo stacks , and embrace the very latest social media trends in the industry. If there’s a way to save time as an indie publisher, we’re totally on board with chasing it! While dictation requires some effort and initial learning, it can be well worth the effort.

Create room for some of your more spontaneous ideas

Is there anything a writer dreads more than the glaring emptiness of a blank Word document? This can be the antithesis of a motivational writing environment. One alternative method? Skip the screen and use dictation instead. While some authors use dictation to write their book once it’s been fully fleshed out, others use it as early as the brainstorming stage to let spontaneous ideas emerge. You can use a digital voice recorder to let those creative ideas begin to roll.

Kiss hunching over a keyboard goodbye — and save your back!

There’s a reason authors seek out at-desk exercises to keep their mind and body equally strong… Typing is physically grueling. If you frequently use a keyboard, you’re probably familiar with the back pain and even carpal tunnel that can come with it. Book dictation is less likely to create these ailments since it involves gentler physical activity. 

Dictate anywhere, at any time

Something we love about dictation is that it can be done anywhere. If you’re out on a walk, you can use a phone app to record yourself talking. The same is true for sitting at a desk, riding in the car, or even grocery shopping! Dictation helps make the writing process a bit more mobile than other mediums (like the keyboard). 

How to Dictate a Book: The Cons

Punctuation can get… messy.

Unfortunately, there’s no writing method that doesn’t come without setbacks. If you’re wondering how to dictate a book, you may be asking yourself how punctuation comes into play in the process. Luckily, dictation software has figured out a way around this. As you speak, you can utilize particular voice commands to denote punctuation. This won’t come naturally at first, though, since this is not how we speak in our day-to-day lives. Some people go back and punctuate after they’re done dictating a section of writing.

There’s a learning curve with varying slope

As is to be expected from any software, there’s a learning curve. Some people may adjust more easily and naturally than others to the various dictation tools out there. As we mentioned, though, we feel the effort that goes into learning these tools is well worth the ease that dictation can provide. There are also countless Youtube tutorials for helping you learn how to dictate a book.

Unusual character or location names? This can make dictation tricky

If George R. R. Martin had dictated Game of Thrones, some software may have struggled with knowing how to immediately spell names like Daenerys and Cersei. Of course, more expensive solutions on the market (like Dragon Professional Individual ) have ways to resolve this and can teach in-app AI how to spell these words going forward. This may not be a problem for everyone but is worth noting for some Sci Fi or Fantasy authors.

The Best Dictation Software for Authors

If you’re interested in getting started with how to dictate a book in 2022, you’re going to first need a fully equipped tool belt. We recommend stocking your tool belt with some of the highest-recommended dictation software programs. While some of these tools come with a hefty price tag, others are completely free – and likely already on your computer.

Keep in mind that there are two methods for how to dictate a book: speaking in real-time, or recording and then transcribing at a later date. This list includes dictation software that does either/or.

With a bevy of productivity solutions, Nuance’s Dragon software makes AI speech recognition accessible for any person. For the self-published author, Dragon Anywhere Mobile helps you with how to dictate a book from your own phone. It comes with a one-week free trial, and can then be purchased for $15/month. Not only can you dictate within the app, but you can edit your documents using your voice. Since this option has a free trial period, you can try it out and see if the app works best for you.

Working with a more… flexible… budget? For $500, you can purchase Dragon Professional Individual for your computer. Dragon Professional Individual is commonly listed as the cream of the crop of dictation software.

Speechpad takes the dictation software model and makes it even easier. How does it work?

• Create an audio or video recording of your book.
• Submit it to the real people on Speechpad’s team.
• Get your full transcription back in as little as 24 hours for $1.00/minute. Or get it back in 12 hours for just $1.25 a minute!

Speechpad takes a majority of the dictation work out of your hands. All you have to do is record yourself reading your book. The cost associated with Speechpad means it’s likely worth doing with the final version of your book.

Google Docs

Proving that dictation can be both easy and free, Google Docs includes this option for users working out of a Chrome browser. If you have Chrome set up already, open a Google Doc and go to “Tools” in the top toolbar. From there, find the “Voice typing” option and select it. There’s also the “command+shift+S“ keyboard shortcut to do this. This was so easy, our team typed this entire section using Google Doc’s typing tool.

Speechtexter

If you’re looking for a free dictation option that’s not strictly for Google Docs/Chrome users, Speechtexter might be for you. You speak directly into the doc and then watch as your words appear on the screen. Speechtexter even has a helpful guide to punctuation commands on the right-hand side of the page. We personally tested this tool out and found it to be just as helpful as the dictation offering within Google Docs. 

Going with a paid option, like Dragon or Speechpad, may be more efficient if your book is written and in its final draft. Google Docs and Speechtexter, though, are more than sufficient if you’re brainstorming or in the early days of writing.

Apple Dictation

Turn on keyboard dictation from your Mac to dictate anywhere on your computer. You can even set up a custom shortcut to begin dictating with the click of a few buttons. This is built into your Mac and is an easy, free option for trying dictation out yourself.

Windows Speech Recognition

Similar to Apple Dictation, Windows Speech Recognition is the answer for Windows computers and is available on Windows 10 and 11. Looking at reviews online, this is a free and easily accessible tool attractive to anyone who doesn’t want to break the bank with their dictation.

What You Need to Dictate a Book

Once you’ve selected the dictation software that’s best for you, you’ll still need to get a few other ducks in a row. Before you begin dictating your book, make sure that you have:

Completed notes, or the transcript of your book, if you are transcribing a fully finished product.

A fully charged computer or phone – it’d be a shame to have these die on you mid-dictation , a microphone, if one is necessary or even helpful for the software you’re using., a recording device. these are great if you’ll be transcribing your recording yourself, or if you’re using a tool like speechpad., how to dictate a book: final steps.

After you’re finished with dictating, you’ll then need to edit. When you’re learning how to dictate a book, remember that this method isn’t foolproof. There will likely be typos or mistakes on the page. More sophisticated dictation software will learn as you continue to use it, though, and AI will get better and better. This will eventually make your job as an editor easier.

If you’re interested in making your writing process easier and faster in 2022, learning to dictate may be a worthwhile effort. It’s never been easier – or cheaper – to do just that. Getting started with some of the free tools listed in this article can help you get your feet wet with dictation. 

Have you dictated a book, or used dictation at any stage of your writing process? If so, let us know in the comments below!

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17 comments on “ how to dictate a book in 2022 ”.

I have been using Rev, and Temi for years with great success.

Dictanote is almost as good as Dragon. Highly recommend it as it’s free. With all voice dictation software, you’re gonna have to use a monotone way of speaking for improved accuracy.

Thanks for your insight Matthew. So many great tips in the comments here.

Many indie books today are dictated or read that way. Messy, disjointed, repetitive, no context. When you can’t see what you’ve written, go back to check or search you easily lose you place because you don’t know where you’v been and therefore won’t know where you’re going. Dictating is a mess and to be avoided I believe for fiction writers.

I experienced this problem firsthand when I started using dictation software back in 2015. The solution comes with practice and a willingness to self-edit your work. It took me several hundred articles (I am a copywriter) to get myself to the point where I can dictate in as natural a manner as when I type, but it was worth it. My speed has increased three-fold, the error rate is down considerably, and my carpal tunnel hasn’t flared up even once. The trick is to know what you are writing before you write it. Outline, prepare sources and quotes, and stick to it!

I recently discovered on my new google pixel phone a thing called Google Recorder. This is an mp3 recorder with a difference. As you speak, it records. It also transcribes into text, *very* accurately. It then uploads the audio and transcript to your Google account at recorder.google.com from where you can download both. No more Dragon or any of the others needed.

Great tip David!

I’m planning on writing my book but as an a descriptive artist I can’t type fast enough and loose my “flow” of my narrative so I’m looking for a way to record my stories and then be able to read and edit later

This takes me back to the early days of newspaper reporting where we’d make a few quick notes while on a story, find a public phone box, ask the operator for ‘Copy’ and then read the story over. The copy takers were usually men, they could spell, (certainly better than me) and we had basic instructions. eg Stop, par, single quote, double quote, close quote …. I have recently found this works perfectly dictating onto my MacBook and more recently onto the iPhone 13. Again, both of these can spell!😂

So your brain is already trained for this. I find it so hard to get into that mode! I’ve found the built-in Apple dictation is better than Dragon, but I’m just not wired to write out loud like that, on the fly. Any tips?

Either way, thanks for the cool story. You’ve definitely seen a lot of changes in how we write!

I was forced to use dictation when I developed RSI in my fingers. Along with my writing, I ghost write averaging about 90k words per month. I’d been resistant to dictation because it felt awkward, but at that point I had no choice. Starting from day one, I produced twice as many words in the same amount of time and since then have averaged 3500 to 4000 words per hour.

I use Dragon to digitally record, usually when I’m on a walk, and have the software transcribe the audio. I don’t like talking into my computer, but when I do, I use Dragon with Notepad to avoid issues between Dragon and Word, or us MS’s built in voice recognition with the new version of Word, which is pretty good.

Dictation is definitely different from typing, but once you figure it out, it’s fast, and once you edit what you’ve dictated, it comes out about the same as if it was initially typed. The trick is knowing what you want to “write”, overcoming the awkwardness, and enunciation.

All this is Greek right now, but think you have the right of it.

Hi Jenna, could you clarify a point? If using an Apple iPhone, what is the program I speak into, and will it transcribe into a format a publisher can use- like word or scrivener? I’m new to this. Many thanks! Janet

It would certainly help to exercise my voice! Lockdown has been dreadful for my vocal chords, even though I’ve got through a lot of typing. Next time… dictate!

I haven’t found anything good on my phone. I think and speak in discrete chunks and then the software stops listening.

I am dictating this on my iPhone in my notes app.

There’s been some discussion as to which dictation program is best for a fiction writer. I am a fiction writer and I use my phone and my laptop with an external screen. I’m running windows 10. I didn’t buy any extra apps or programs to do the dictation.

“I am a indie writer and I do all of my books on dictation through dictation.” As you can see I left the error that I made. That way I don’t have to stop in the middle of my dictation and edit my manuscript. I made the air and then I immediately said the correct words. When I read this back I’ll know exactly what I need to do. I will go back and delete the extra word and type in the word ‘error’ to correct that.

“I can simply say the words for the punctuation marks I need ie: ?,!,:,;,,,. and the app will put in the punctuation that I desire.

When I want to do dialogue it’s as simple as saying the words ‘begin quote’ “ and quotation mark appears. It’s like magic. At the end of the dialogue I simply say ‘end quote’ “ and there it is.

If I want to go to the next paragraph I simply say ‘next paragraph’ and pop we’re on the next line. It’s quite fun actually.

So far I haven’t been able to figure out how to do a section break so I do those manually. But I taught myself how to do all of this.

One caveat here… (I just said dot dot dot – and ellipses appeared) and the app puts it in. When I leave voicemails for my loved ones these days, at times I accidentally verbally punctuate them and then I say Love Lyn at the end. Oh well my families always thought I was nuts and now I’m just proving them right. LOL

I don’t know where I’d be without the ability to dictate everything that I write. I’m a writer who has arthritis and a lot of pain from Lupus and various other crap. Lots of back issues. Dictating, as has been said in the article, can help alleviate some of that and be done anywhere—when I’m making supper, when I’m resting in bed, when I’m watching TV, when I’m painting, when I’m grocery shopping, you get the picture I’m sure.

I use Grammarly to help me with editing.

Hope this helps.

Warmly, Lyn

I’m just starting out. Thank y’all for all of this information.

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10 Best Dictation Apps For Writers (In 2024)

The journey to discovering my go-to app began with an unexpected challenge. Years of typing had finally caught up to me, manifesting as a repetitive strain injury. Writing, my once-beloved craft, became a painful chore. As part of my mission to combat this, I revamped my setup with a vertical mouse and created an ergonomic workspace . But the real magic? Discovering dictation software. This game-changer allowed me to rediscover the joy in writing without the pain. Beyond comfort, I noticed my writing productivity soaring. Think about it: we can speak almost three times faster than we type! By embracing voice typing, my word count per hour nearly doubled. A heads up, though: dictation might require a bit more editing than traditional typing. But as we writers know, editing can be the fun part. Ready to dive in?

Here are the best dictation apps for writers:

The 10 best dictation apps for writers (in-depth review):, 1. nuance dragon.

This speech recognition software is my chief recommendation , as there’s nothing better (on Windows) that can recognize spoken words. It’s not free and you would need to pay $200 for the lifetime license for the Home Version. But it’s worth every penny. Once you shift from a free voice to text app to Dragon, you’ll notice a big boost in productivity. With Dragon, you get 99% voice recognition out-of-the-box, and it even improves over time because of fancy algorithms. Indeed, this is more than dictation software. It allows you to do many tasks on your computer by using your voice through voice control. What kinds of tasks? Mostly surfing the web, opening programs, text editing, and OS navigation. But the biggest game-changer is that with Dragon, you can write in any text field you choose (chats, apps, emails, social media, etc.) The app is 100% compatible with Microsoft Word, and it has over 60 different voice commands . It has a few drawbacks, but it’s still one of the top speech-to-text programs. I even wrote a complete review of Nuance Dragon , so check it out to learn more.

Bottom line:

It’s the top app used by many respected writers and authors. It allows you to work in a hands-free mode while enhancing your productivity at the same time. Minor drawbacks aside, it is a fantastic writing tool for everyday use.

2. Google Docs Voice Typing

It’s the best option for beginners who want to dictate in any language. Just speak naturally, and it will be accurate 99% of the time. While this solution is not perfect, and it only works on the Chrome browser, it’s still pretty amazing. The best thing about it is that it’s free and you don’t even have to sign up for anything. You only need to create a Google Doc, go to “Tools” in the upper menu, and choose “Voice Typing.” This will open up the dictation tool and a menu from which you can choose your preferred language and press record. The number of languages is truly remarkable, making it a perfect app for note-taking without having to pay a hefty price tag. In the past, the record button would be available just for a couple of seconds before switching off. But now you can use dictation continually, which is much better for maintaining productive flow.

If you’ve never used dictation software before, this should be your primary choice. It will allow you to get your feet wet and gain dictation skills without investing a dime. Check it out right now.

3. Apple Dictation

The standard version of this dictation app requires the internet to work and has a time limit of about 30 seconds for each piece of speech, however, once you enable Enhanced Dictation available for OS X v10.9 or later or iPhone 6s or newer, you can dictate without limits and don’t need to be online. One thing great about it is that you can turn it on and off by using a keyboard shortcut (my favorite option is double hitting the command key) Apple dictation gives you broader capabilities than the free tool from Google Docs because you can write in any text field. What I like about Apple Dictation is that it has many extra commands and robust features you can use to format your text. For example, it allows you to open parentheses, and quotes, or add new lines or paragraphs. This makes it convenient if you want to avoid touching the keyboard altogether.

4. Braina Pro

Here’s an app that recognizes many languages and serves as your assistant. It’s the biggest competitor of Dragon Naturally Speaking , and it lets you dictate in languages other than English. It has a speech-to-text feature in 120 languages. It also recognizes local dialects, so you don’t have to worry that it will misspell words if you have an unusual accent. Just like Dragon, it comes with 99% speech recognition capability out-of-the-box. You don’t even need to “train” the app by dictating loads of text so it gets used to your pronunciation. You can set it up in a matter of minutes and start enjoying increased productivity in hands-free mode. You can even take advantage of added voice commands such as “new line” or “delete that”. Braina will help you write in any text field. This includes your email client, social media platforms, Microsoft Word, Google Docs, or any other text editor. You can use it even in noisy environments, provided you have a decent microphone . The app also has a virtual assistant function. It’s better than Siri or Cortana, as it’s designed to maximize  productivity , especially for writers. For example, you could say “synonyms of joy,” and it will generate an answer. There are dozens of commands like that, and you can check them here . Finally, the Braina mobile app lets you control your PC through your mobile device. You only need to be connected to a home Wi-Fi network.

5. Windows Speech Recognition

A useful free dictation app for Windows users. If you’re reading this on a Windows PC, you can try out this free tool right now. Open “Control Panel” and click on “Ease of access” and then “speech recognition.” Then click on “Start speech recognition”. Afterward, you’ll need to go through a couple more steps (like setting up your microphone, etc.) before you’re ready. But the whole setup should take only five minutes. Now you’ll be able to use Windows 10 Speech Recognition for writing and use voice commands to control your computer hands-free. Once the app is in listening mode, you can start using commands like “comma”, or “open quote”, and even do basic web searches. Finally, the app lacks advanced voice recognition software capabilities and commands you can find in Dragon or other apps.

It’s not a perfect solution, especially if you plan to write daily. This is not designed for prolific writers, but it can be helpful if you’re looking to experiment with voice recognition software.

6. Speechnotes

7. dragon anywhere.

The best mobile app for power users, with advanced built-in features. This is the top choice if you’re a writer who loves to crunch out words onto your mobile screen as it offers fully formed dictation capabilities powered via the cloud. Whether you’re sitting in a local cafe, shopping, or even walking in the park – it’s always there with you. It’s nice, especially if you already use Dragon Naturally Speaking on your desktop computer. It shares a lot of similar features. It lets you dictate with no word limits, and with a 99% accuracy rate if you’re a native English speaker. Also, it allows you to open the correction menu to rectify any spelling or grammar mistakes . You can also program it to understand industry-specific vocabulary , so you don’t have to hand-type it like with other apps. Like the regular Dragon, the app uses advanced deep-learning algorithms that adapt to your speech patterns. Many professional authors use this app to write complete book manuscripts , as it lets you dictate up to 5,000 words per hour.

8. Google mobile voice typing (Gboard)

The best free mobile solution for Android users (especially if you have a Google Pixel phone). If you’re already using Gboard on your Android device, then switching to voice typing is an easy decision. I use this feature all the time to take notes in Google Keep and compose articles in Google Docs. I also find it useful when writing emails or writing social media posts while out of the office. Of course, voice recognition quality depends on the type of microphone you’re using. Your built-in smartphone mic is usually enough. But if you’re seriously considering voice writing on your phone, invest in an inexpensive lapel mic ($15-$20) with a 3.5 mm jack that can be plugged into your phone. This will vastly improve your results and turn your phone into a professional writing machine . This app works in 120 languages, so it’s great if you’re multilingual and want to switch from one language to another fast. And the best part? You can even type while offline. That’s perfect if you’re exploring the wilderness or sitting on a long-haul flight.

It’s a viable alternative to a paid option like Dragon Anywhere. It’s always free and readily accessible on your Android mobile device.

9. Siri Dictation

This is your top solution for an iOS device. Siri works great where voice-to-text capability is required. Now you can write at a greater speed than ever before on your mobile device.

10. Microsoft Dictation App for Microsoft 365 and the Web

Free dictation app for all devices with a Microsoft 365 subscription and MS Word online. This dictation app works on Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android, provided you have a Microsoft 365 subscription or signed up on MS Office online. Microsoft Dictation App for MS Word allows you to type Word documents using your voice. Even during the session, you can use your keyboard to modify the document. You can even dictate punctuation marks such as period, comma, question mark, etc., and the system would understand. The auto-punctuation mode will automatically close your sentence if you use it. This app can also be used in 20 different languages. Besides English, you can dictate Spanish, Dutch, Finnish, French, German, Chinese, Japanese, and several other widely used languages. It even has a profanity filter that masks swear words with ****. It is so convenient to use even when you are on the road. As long as you have an internet connection on your mobile phone or PC, you can use this app. If you have a Microsoft 365 subscription, the microphone icon automatically appears near the right end of your Word toolbar. All you have to do is click it and once it says: “Start listening” you can begin dictating and the system will start typing the words you said.

To learn more about how you can use this feature on your device, just check out this easy-to-follow guide .

The Top 5 Benefits of Using Dictation Software For Writing:

1. it’s faster than typing.

I used to write around 900 words an hour on a keyboard. But with a high-quality dictation app, I increased my output to about 1700 words during the same period. That’s a considerable boost in productivity.

2. It’s more ergonomic

I so wish that someone told me about dictation software a couple of years ago. It would have saved me from a tremendous amount of pain and frustration. By using voice to write and edit, I’ve been keeping my valuable wrists, neck, and back pain-free .

3. It lets you “write as you speak”

4. it makes you a better verbal communicator, 5. it’s the future.

You’re probably already using voice to communicate through a variety of apps. Using your voice for writing is the logical next step . Plus, you can use voice control, and create custom voice commands to further enhance your experience.

Additional Dictation Tips For Writers

Bonus tip #1: use the right microphone to get the most out of the dictation software.

I learned that using a proper microphone is one of the best things you can do to improve the quality of dictation . Even if you get the best piece of software, you won’t get an optimum result if you’re speaking into a crappy microphone or if there’s a lot of background noise. You can choose between three different popular types, depending on your needs.

1. Bluetooth Headset

2. podcasting microphone.

The second option is a podcasting microphone. This is convenient for many users because it allows you to dictate while listening to music on your headphones. On the minus side, a mic like this takes up more space and has to be fixed to your desk. Here’s a recommended model you can use.

3. Gooseneck Microphone

Option number three is the best of both worlds. A gooseneck microphone gives you all the flexibility while picking up sounds perfectly. Yes, you still need to sit (or stand) at your desk to make it work. But at least it doesn’t take up a lot of space, and it can provide a desirable dictation quality. Here’s a recommended model you can use .

Bonus Tip #2: How to use dictation for maximum speech-to-text efficiency

Once you have the right software and hardware in place, the only thing you need to do is to learn how to dictate accurately. Here’s how:

If you want to learn and master the skill, you can read a book like “ Dictate Your Book: How To Write Your Book Faster, Better, and Smarter ” by Monica Leonelle. In 59 pages, you’ll get all the info you need along with exercise prompts.

Final Thoughts

Rafal reyzer.

Hey there, welcome to my blog! I'm a full-time entrepreneur building two companies, a digital marketer, and a content creator with 10+ years of experience. I started RafalReyzer.com to provide you with great tools and strategies you can use to become a proficient digital marketer and achieve freedom through online creativity. My site is a one-stop shop for digital marketers, and content enthusiasts who want to be independent, earn more money, and create beautiful things. Explore my journey here , and don't miss out on my AI Marketing Mastery online course.

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Home / Book Writing / How to Dictate a Book: A Comprehensive Guide for Authors

How to Dictate a Book: A Comprehensive Guide for Authors

It's easier than you think to dictate a book with the help of software like Dragon Professional Individual . If you are an author who has been struggling with how to write your next bestseller, this is for you!

By dictating your book, you can produce a more polished manuscript that will be ready for publication sooner.

This article will walk through how to prepare before beginning dictation and how each stage differs when compared to typing by hand or using another word processor. It'll also discuss how the editing process is different when dictating as opposed to writing.

And by the way, this article was written via dictation.

• What dictation is
• Why you should dictate a book
• Excuses for not dictating
• How to dictate your book
• How to edit your work after dictating

Table of contents

• What is Dictation?
• 1. Health Reasons
• 2. Writing Speed
• 3. Lowered Barrier of Entry
• 4. Decreased Critical Voice

Excuse #1: “I tried and it didn't work for me”

Excuse #2: “saying the punctuation is so awkward”, excuse #3: “i write fantasy with weird names, so dictation doesn't work”, excuse #4: “i write in public so dictation doesn't work well for me”, excuse #5: “dictation is too technical”.

• 1. Voice to Text Software
• 2. Record and Transcribe with Dragon
• 3. Record and Transcribe with a Transcriptionist
• Step 1: Select Your Software
• Step 2: Select a Recording Device and/or Microphone

Step 3: “Train” Dragon Dictation

• Step 4: Get Into a Habit and Don't Stop
• 1. Edit when Training Your Dragon
• 2. Measure the Time it Takes to Edit
• 3. Expect Extra Editing
• 4. Use ProWritingAid or Transcriptionist to Help
• The Bottom Line: Is Dictation Worth It?

Dictation is putting words on the page using your voice. It can be done with speech-to-text software like Dragon Professional Individual or other free tools that are not quite as accurate but still work well for blog posts, book chapters and other short text documents.

Dictation software makes writing easier because it frees you from your keyboard and allows you to focus on the story that's in your head.

Once you've written the first draft of your book or blog post using speech recognition, creating a more polished version is faster than ever before.

Why Choose to Dictate?

There are a number of reasons why you might choose to dictate instead of typing or writing by hand. I found that most authors begin using voice recognition for one of the following reasons:

If you suffer from carpal tunnel, arthritis, or any other physical ailment that makes typing difficult for your hands and wrists, dictating is the solution.

Dictation also helps with repetitive stress injuries (RSI) because it reduces how much time you spend using a keyboard. This will allow the muscles in your arms, shoulders and hands to heal.

I haven't had any of these health concerns, but I know people that do, and earlier in my writing career I really set out to avoid them. I got ergonomic keyboards and tried to get up and stretch my limbs every half hour.

These things will help, of course, but I might've saved myself some time and money by just getting a dictation software earlier, and really doubling down on that strategy.

Regardless, if you suffer from any of these health concerns, speech recognition can make your life easier. You don't have to stop writing just because you got carpal tunnel.

For some, writing speed is the most attractive aspect of dictating a book.

I think we all like the idea of churning out a book a month, a blog post a day, or any other ambitious writing goal. And when you truly try to research what is possible, dictation always comes up as a strong solution.

And guess what? Evidence does suggest that dictation does improve your speed. It does sometimes take some training, but so does anything else worth doing.

One of the most attractive aspects that I found when I began dictating was that it lowered my barrier of entry.

Often I would sit down at my desk to write, and it would just feel like this enormous task. This made it harder to get into writing, because I knew that in a couple of hours my wrists would be sore, I would be tired, and at most I would have a couple thousand words.

With dictation I can just start talking which is a lot easier than typing. I don't even need to look at my computer most of the time. I can just stare out the window and open my mouth, so it is much easier to get started.

I know for myself, when I type out a book, I'm constantly judging what I'm writing.

We all have that inner critic, the little voice that says we're no good, the source of our imposter syndrome.

While there is more to solving this problem than just dictating, I found that by dictating, that part of my mind goes dormant, and I’m largely able to get over writer's block. I spend less time looking at my words, and more time just thinking through the story, speaking my words out loud, and this prevents my brain from dwelling too long on the critical voice.

Formatting Has Never Been Easier

Write and format professional books with ease.  Never before has creating formatted books been easier.

Why People Don't Dictate

There are many excuses why people don't dictate their books. And let me first start off by saying that some of these may be legitimate for you. I can't tell you that dictation is the way to go for everyone, because that would simply not be true.

Nevertheless, I think many of these comments are true excuses, and if you pushed past them you would be surprised at the positive results. So let's take a look at a few of these:

My first reaction to this excuse is, “did you really give it a try?”

There's a difference between trying for an hour or two, or trying for weeks. If you haven't yet tried to write a full book, troubleshooting your problems with much of the free and paid online training out there, then I don't think you really gave it a try.

It may be that dictation is not right for you, but you will really know until you truly give it a run for its money.

Okay, so this is true. Saying punctuation out loud is awkward.

But you know what is also awkward. Typing. But we don't think too much about it because it's a skill that most of us learn in adolescence. By the time most of us get to adulthood, we're used to typing.

The same is true of speech recognition. I've actually found that it does not take long for the punctuation to come naturally as I speak.

This may be a legitimate obstacle, if you are using the wrong software. Thankfully software like Dragon Professional Individual is built to handle things like this. All you have to do is train it to recognize certain words, specifically how you speak them, and you should have little trouble in the future.

There's a good chance that if you are dictating in public, people will start to look at you weird. But these days, it's common to see someone talking on the phone using a Bluetooth device.

If I had to guess, I say most people just assume that you're talking to someone on the phone. It's certainly something that is less taboo than it used to be.

It's true, dictation is technical. But thankfully, most of that technicality is on the backend. Once you get set up and working, there is very little that you will need to do. All you need to do is speak, and the words will flow. Even advanced software like Dragon Professional Individual, only requires a minimal amount of technical knowledge.

As someone who loves dictation, I recommend that everyone at least give it a try. Give it a solid chance, and by that I mean write the equivalent of at least one book.

By the time you get to the end of that book, there is a good chance that you will be comfortable enough with dictation that you will not want to look back.

The Different Ways to Dictate

In this post, when I talk about dictation, I am usually talking about a voice to text program. But there are actually several ways of dictating a book. In this section we'll go over a few of those:

The most common form of dictation is using a voice to text software. There are free versions and paid versions, and I recommend my post going over the top dictation software here .

If you're willing to pay, for most people I recommend Dragon Professional Individual , because it offers the most enhanced dictation, the most accurate engine, multiple languages, and will save you the most time in the editing process .

But if you’re looking for a free voice recognition software, you can find them with basic Windows/Mac operating systems, Microsoft Word, and Google Docs.

If you're using Dragon Professional Individual (this is not an available feature with Dragon Home ), then you can record your voice typing separately as an audio file, then plug it into Dragon for transcription.

I recommend this method if you want to go out hiking, or want to dictate anywhere away from your computer.

The third method of dictation involves recording the audio file with a dedicated voice recorder, then sending it to someone who can transcribe it for you.

There are plenty of places where you can find a transcriptionist, but they will all cost money. My recommendation would be to find someone on Upwork or Fiverr, though I've heard good things about rev.com as an accurate transcription service.

The downside to any of these services is that it will cost money. The upside is that the accuracy is likely to be far higher, and you don't have to worry about saying punctuation out loud. If you have the money, this can be an attractive option. Authors like Kevin J. Anderson are among those who dictate in this way.

That said, prices can add up, and the price of Dragon Professional Individual would easily be cheaper than transcribing a couple of novels through a service.

How to Dictate a Book

Alright, now that I've got your attention, let's talk about how to actually dictate the book in four simple steps.

Your software is going to be your biggest friend. Choose the wrong software, and you will be editing for far longer than you should. Choose the right software, and not only will your transcription be cleaner, but it will get better over time as it learns from your voice.

As I mentioned above, I recommend Dragon Professional Individual for those who can afford it. But there are other options as well, and I recommend checking out my post on that.

Your microphone or recording device can be just as important as your software. A bad microphone will lead to poor quality audio, which means that your transcription will probably not be as clean.

There are a multitude of microphone options available, and I recommend looking at this post for some of the best.

Part of your decision should be based on where you plan to dictate. If you plan to dictate at your computer, the microphone you need will be slightly different than if you plan to walk around the neighborhood. Keep this in consideration.

Other tools do this as well, but I'm going to use Dragon as my specific example.

The AI in Dragon digital is an adaptive AI. It learns from you as you go.

When you are just starting out with dictation, it's a good idea to spend some time specifically training your software. This means watching what it dictates, and instead of manually fixing any mistakes you see, use the software to select those mistakes and correct them.

Doing so will let the software know what you really meant, and it's less likely to make that same mistake in the future.

You also have the option of adding new vocabulary to Dragon. This is useful if you have unusual names or words. All you do is spell out the word you want to train, then say it into your microphone. Dragon will take care of the rest.

The key to dictation is practice.

Just as typing was a little awkward when we first started learning how to do it, dictation also takes time to master.

But like typing or riding a bike, it soon becomes second nature, and the words just start to fly out of our mouths.

I started dictating not too long ago, and I can already see an improvement after having written approximately 20,000 words with the software. Not only have I improved in speed, but the software has improved in accuracy.

Just as you would cultivate any writing habit, schedule time for yourself to dictate, and make sure you meet that commitment.

Over time, you will be amazed with the results.

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The Editing Process

Lastly, let's talk about the editing process. Editing is often more essential after dictating, because a lot of grammatical mistakes and spelling errors usually make their way into your manuscript.

So what can you do to improve your editing process? Let's take a look at a few options:

While I don't recommend editing as you go for most cases, it can be useful when you're just starting out using Dragon. The reason for this is that it will learn as you edit your mistakes.

However, this isn’t necessary all of the time, and perhaps you can limit it to just a few minutes of dictation every session for just the first few sessions.

The rest of the time, I recommend waiting to edit until after you've finished your writing.

If you discover that dictation is causing too many errors, it might actually not be worth it for you (although you may also have a problem with your microphone or setup, so check that first).

A good way to measure this is to time yourself when editing. If the time that you save in writing is outweighed by the extra time you spend in editing, then you're still spending the same amount of time working on your novel.

With the right software program, this can be avoided, but it's good to check how long it takes to edit if you find yourself editing too much.

Don't let a little extra editing scare you. With dictation software, this is normal.

Don't give up, allow your software's AI to improve, and stick with it until you know for sure how much extra editing it gives you.

If you have a hard time catching all of your mistakes, a good resource is ProWritingAid , which can greatly help you catch all of the errors.

If you find yourself making too many errors, or the amount of editing you do is too high, consider hiring a proofreader who is willing to forgive many mistakes, or hire a transcriptionist to do the transcription for you.

Both options will result in cleaner manuscripts.

I started dictating because I knew I was going to write this article. By the time I wrote this article I had written over a dozen other articles using dictation software.

I then became so excited to share this article with you, because dictation has really improved my writing process. And my experience with the software is still relatively small.

However, I know enough to recommend it to anyone who wants to increase their speed, word count, or want to increase the time they have in the day.

If you found dictation to work for you, I recommend sharing this article with a friend.

Jason Hamilton

When I’m not sipping tea with princesses or lightsaber dueling with little Jedi, I’m a book marketing nut. Having consulted multiple publishing companies and NYT best-selling authors, I created Kindlepreneur to help authors sell more books. I’ve even been called “The Kindlepreneur” by Amazon publicly, and I’m here to help you with your author journey.

• Excuse #1: "I tried and it didn't work for me"
• Excuse #2: "Saying the punctuation is so awkward"
• Excuse #3: "I write fantasy with weird names, so dictation doesn't work"
• Excuse #4: "I write in public so dictation doesn't work well for me"
• Excuse #5: "Dictation is too technical"
• Step 3: "Train" Dragon Dictation

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Want to Dictate a Book Fast? Use These 12 Practical Tips

This article offers 12 practical tips that will help you dictate a book fast and more accurately.

Many prolific authors find that they are at high risk for typing-related injuries and  writer’s block . Often, staring at a blank screen can stop creativity in its tracks.  Dictation  can help break through these hurdles and keep the creative ideas for a book flowing.

Each author has a unique writing process, but dictation can help you write a book’s first draft faster. I’ve used many of the tips in this article to work dictation into my book writing workflow. With practice and the help of the right dictation software, you can too.

Dragon NaturallySpeaking Or Dragon Anywhere

• Google Docs Voice Dictation 
• Apple Dictation
• 5. Buy a Good Headset

6. Create an Outline

• 7. Learn Basic Voice Commands

8. Work Somewhere Quiet

• 9. Start Dictating

10. Work Chapter by Chapter

11. use placeholder words, 12. edit and format using keyboard and mouse, a final word on the best way to dictate a book fast, can you dictate a book, how can you dictate a book, voice dictation resources.

Dragon offers professional-grade speech to text with near 95% accuracy. It's available on iOS and Android.

1. Select The Right Dictation Software

Good  dictation software  ensures better accuracy. Authors can pick from many options, but not all help with  formatting  or assist with your  word processor  of choice. Here are several options to consider, for authors of all budgets.

Dragon Anywhere from Nuance is one of the most popular dictation software options. It works with Scrivener, Microsoft Word, and Pages, making it a popular speech-to-text option for many professional writers.

The  Dragon Anywhere  mobile app lets you take your book on the road. While some practice, it offers near 100% accuracy. It’s what I use most.

Google Docs   Voice Dictation  

Google Docs has a voice dictation program built into its platform. If you already use Google as part of your writing process, you can benefit from dictation without learning new software or paying for it.

To use it, select “tools” and “voice typing” within your Google Docs document. Although it’s free, don’t expect 100% accuracy.

Apple   Dictation

If you are a  Mac  user,  Apple  Dictate  is a great choice.  Siri  generates accurate text across  iOS  devices and is built into  Mac  OS and  iOS . 

You can dictate your book on your Mac, then transfer the program to your iPhone and use Siri to keep working on the road. Again, it’s free, but don’t expect 100% accuracy.

If using find using  voice-to-text  and  voice recognition software  is too difficult, consider a  transcription service .

Ottter.ai is a reasonably accurate AI-powered transcription tool aimed at business people. However, professional writers and authors can use it too. Simply, record a chapter of your book using your phone or a voice recorder. Then upload it to Otter.ai for transcription.

The result will require some clean-up and editing, but you won’t have to learn any software. It starts at $8.33 per month.

Temi  transcribes via automated AI, like Otter.ai. It charges $0.25 per audio minute and delivers easy-to-read typed transcripts. Again, record on your phone or with a voice recorder, upload, and edit the results. Bear in mind, background noise dramatically impacts accuracy.

Rev offers transcripts by a real person. The human transcripts have a 99% accuracy guarantee, which means fewer typos. They also turn the finished workaround in about 12 hours, so you don’t have to wait to get your draft. Rev costs $1.25 per minute.

A  transcription service  is more expensive than  dictation software . You need a good outline before submitting a draft for transcription, otherwise, it will cost you a lot. I also recommend working on and submitting each chapter separately rather than a single, large  audio file .

5. Buy a Good  Headset

You’ll spend  less time  editing a draft if you use a quality  headset . In other words, avoid using the ten-dollar  headset  that came with your phone. Choose a  headset  that picks up your speech while reducing  background noise . 

Apple  Airpods work surprisingly well. Alternatively, you can invest in a dedicated  voice recorder  and upload the  audio file  to a service like  Rev  or Temi.

Before you start  writing a book , create an outline. It says what you’re going to say as you dictate the chapters. Plus,  dictation software  works best if you speak in complete sentences, which is easier with an outline.

You can draft an outline by using a bullet-point list using an app like Dynalist. Alternatively, you could create a mind map. The outline needs the basic plot or main points of your book. It’s a flexible document that evolves with your book and keeps you on topic.

Whatever your approach, keep your outline nearby while  dictating  so you can look at it while speaking.

7. Learn Basic  Voice Commands

Voice commands  tell your software when it is time to insert punctuation, make a line break, start a  new paragraph  or stop transcribing. Take some time to practice using these to save yourself a  lot of time  when you start  dictating . If you’re using a transcriptionist, these are not required.

Accuracy is the key when  dictating . Work somewhere quiet if possible. That way,  background noise  won’t impact your train of thought or the quality of your manuscript. I find it easier to dictate while standing up and walking around rather than sitting in front of a computer. 

I’ve also dictated chapters for a book while out for a walk, although the wind impacted on accuracy at one point. 

9. Start  Dictating

Dictation  is much like writing any  first draft . Your job is to get the words out of your head and fill the  blank page , as fast as possible without editing yourself. Keep speaking and if you make a mistake, just repeat the previous sentence or paragraph. 

I also recommend working in 30-minute sessions before taking a short break. This is long enough to dictate several thousand words but not so long that your voice becomes tired. Also, keep a drink of water nearby in case your throat becomes dry.

Dictation  requires you to write linearly because it’s not easy to jump around the book as you speak. Use your outline to guide your writing through each chapter.

When you reach the end of a chapter, consider editing it rather than moving on to the next. This will help you see areas where you can improve in your dictation as you move through the book.

After editing your rough draft of your first chapter, move to the next, until you have a finished draft of your book.

We gave my daughter a traditional Irish name.

No matter how often I tried, I couldn’t train  Dragon  Dictate or other software to dictate her name correctly. I tried spelling the name and various other tips and tricks, but the software still mangled it.

Whenever I’m journaling and I use her name, I dictate a placeholder word that  Dragon  understands. For example, I call her “Sarah” or I call her “my daughter”. Then when I’m editing the journal entry, I search for the word ‘Sarah’ and replace it with my daughter’s name.

If you’re writing fiction, you could use this trick for unusual character names.

Dictation  can speed up the  writing process , but it may lengthen the editing process. Once you have dictated your work, sit down and edit it on screen. After testing various  dictation apps  extensively, I still find it faster to edit on a keyboard. It’s faster and more efficient to manipulate text with a keyboard and mouse. 

Dictation apps  like  Dragon Anywhere  support basic editing commands. For example, say “Scratch that” to delete whatever you said last.  If you insist or need to edit with  dictation software , I suggest printing out work to review it as a whole before editing.

The best way to dictate a book is to find a  speech-to-text  software  or a  transcription service  that works with your  workflow .

Dictating a book can become a healthier writer and reduce the risk of writing in pain , while also spurring your creativity. Even the most skilled typist can sometimes need a break from typing.

It’s not a substitute for writing, proofreading, and editing. It is simply a tool to help you write more quickly. 

FAQs About The Best Way To Dictate A Book Fast

While dictation doesn’t remove the need to proofread or edit, it can speed up the writing process and reduce typing strain. Many authors find speaking their thoughts helps them break through writer’s block and other creativity hangups.

To dictate a book, find  dictation software , set up an outline of the basic plot and start speaking your ideas. After you receive your transcription, read through it and tweak it to remove  dictation  errors and  typos . This can save you time on the overall  writing process .

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How To Write Faster And Send More Work Out Into The World

9 Speedy And Effective Dictation Tips

Otter.Ai Review: Is It Worth It?

Dragon Anywhere App Review: Is It Worth It?

What Are The Best Apps For Dictating A Book?

What Is The Best Dictation Software? 7 Top Choices

The Best Transcription Services Reviewed

The best dictation software in 2024

These speech-to-text apps will save you time without sacrificing accuracy..

The early days of dictation software were like your friend that mishears lyrics: lots of enthusiasm but little accuracy. Now, AI is out of Pandora's box, both in the news and in the apps we use, and dictation apps are getting better and better because of it. It's still not 100% perfect, but you'll definitely feel more in control when using your voice to type.

I took to the internet to find the best speech-to-text software out there right now, and after monologuing at length in front of dozens of dictation apps, these are my picks for the best.

The best dictation software

What is dictation software.

If this isn't what you're looking for, here's what else is out there:

AI assistants, such as Apple's Siri, Amazon's Alexa, and Microsoft's Cortana, can help you interact with each of these ecosystems to send texts, buy products, or schedule events on your calendar.

Transcription services that use a combination of dictation software, AI, and human proofreaders can achieve above 99% accuracy.

What makes a great dictation app?

How we evaluate and test apps.

Dictation software comes in different shapes and sizes. Some are integrated in products you already use. Others are separate apps that offer a range of extra features. While each can vary in look and feel, here's what I looked for to find the best:

High accuracy. Staying true to what you're saying is the most important feature here. The lowest score on this list is at 92% accuracy.

Ease of use. This isn't a high hurdle, as most options are basic enough that anyone can figure them out in seconds.

Availability of voice commands. These let you add "instructions" while you're dictating, such as adding punctuation, starting a new paragraph, or more complex commands like capitalizing all the words in a sentence.

Availability of the languages supported. Most of the picks here support a decent (or impressive) number of languages.

Versatility. I paid attention to how well the software could adapt to different circumstances, apps, and systems.

I tested these apps by reading a 200-word script containing numbers, compound words, and a few tricky terms. I read the script three times for each app: the accuracy scores are an average of all attempts. Finally, I used the voice commands to delete and format text and to control the app's features where available.

What about AI?

Also, since this isn't a hot AI software category, these apps may prefer to focus on their core offering and product quality instead, not ride the trendy wave by slapping "AI-powered" on every web page.

Tips for using voice recognition software

Though dictation software is pretty good at recognizing different voices, it's not perfect. Here are some tips to make it work as best as possible.

Speak naturally (with caveats). Dictation apps learn your voice and speech patterns over time. And if you're going to spend any time with them, you want to be comfortable. Speak naturally. If you're not getting 90% accuracy initially, try enunciating more.  

Punctuate. When you dictate, you have to say each period, comma, question mark, and so forth. The software isn't always smart enough to figure it out on its own.

Learn a few commands . Take the time to learn a few simple commands, such as "new line" to enter a line break. There are different commands for composing, editing, and operating your device. Commands may differ from app to app, so learn the ones that apply to the tool you choose.

Know your limits. Especially on mobile devices, some tools have a time limit for how long they can listen—sometimes for as little as 10 seconds. Glance at the screen from time to time to make sure you haven't blown past the mark. 

Practice. It takes time to adjust to voice recognition software, but it gets easier the more you practice. Some of the more sophisticated apps invite you to train by reading passages or doing other short drills. Don't shy away from tutorials, help menus, and on-screen cheat sheets.

The best dictation software at a glance

Best free dictation software for Apple devices

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Look no further than your Mac, iPhone, or iPad for one of the best dictation tools. Apple's built-in dictation feature, powered by Siri (I wouldn't be surprised if the two merged one day), ships as part of Apple's desktop and mobile operating systems. On iOS devices, you use it by pressing the microphone icon on the stock keyboard. On your desktop, you turn it on by going to System Preferences > Keyboard > Dictation , and then use a keyboard shortcut to activate it in your app.

Apple Dictation price: Included with macOS, iOS, iPadOS, and Apple Watch.

Apple Dictation accuracy: 96%. I tested this on an iPhone SE 3rd Gen using the dictation feature on the keyboard.

Best free dictation software for Windows

Windows 11 speech recognition (windows).

Windows 11 Speech Recognition (also known as Voice Typing) is a strong dictation tool, both for writing documents and controlling your Windows PC. Since it's part of your system, you can use it in any app you have installed.

To start, first, check that online speech recognition is on by going to Settings > Time and Language > Speech . To begin dictating, open an app, and on your keyboard, press the Windows logo key + H. A microphone icon and gray box will appear at the top of your screen. Make sure your cursor is in the space where you want to dictate.

When it's ready for your dictation, it will say Listening . You have about 10 seconds to start talking before the microphone turns off. If that happens, just click it again and wait for Listening to pop up. To stop the dictation, click the microphone icon again or say "stop talking."  

As I dictated into a Word document, the gray box reminded me to hang on, we need a moment to catch up . If you're speaking too fast, you'll also notice your transcribed words aren't keeping up. This never posed an issue with accuracy, but it's a nice reminder to keep it slow and steady. 

While you can use this tool anywhere inside your computer, if you're a Microsoft 365 subscriber, you'll be able to use the dictation features there too. The best app to use it on is, of course, Microsoft Word: it even offers file transcription, so you can upload a WAV or MP3 file and turn it into text. The engine is the same, provided by Microsoft Speech Services.

Windows 11 Speech Recognition price: Included with Windows 11. Also available as part of the Microsoft 365 subscription.

Windows 11 Speech Recognition accuracy: 95%. I tested it in Windows 11 while using Microsoft Word. 

Best customizable dictation software

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In 1990, Dragon Dictate emerged as the first dictation software. Over three decades later, we have Dragon by Nuance, a leader in the industry and a distant cousin of that first iteration. With a variety of software packages and mobile apps for different use cases (e.g., legal, medical, law enforcement), Dragon can handle specialized industry vocabulary, and it comes with excellent features, such as the ability to transcribe text from an audio file you upload. 

For this test, I used Dragon Anywhere, Nuance's mobile app, as it's the only version—among otherwise expensive packages—available with a free trial. It includes lots of features not found in the others, like Words, which lets you add words that would be difficult to recognize and spell out. For example, in the script, the word "Litmus'" (with the possessive) gave every app trouble. To avoid this, I added it to Words, trained it a few times with my voice, and was then able to transcribe it accurately.

It also provides shortcuts. If you want to shorten your entire address to one word, go to Auto-Text , give it a name ("address"), and type in your address: 1000 Eichhorn St., Davenport, IA 52722, and hit Save . The next time you dictate and say "address," you'll get the entire thing. Press the comment bubble icon to see text commands while you're dictating, or say "What can I say?" and the command menu pops up. 

Once you complete a dictation, you can email, share (e.g., Google Drive, Dropbox), open in Word, or save to Evernote. You can perform these actions manually or by voice command (e.g., "save to Evernote.") Once you name it, it automatically saves in Documents for later review or sharing. 

Accuracy is good and improves with use, showing that you can definitely train your dragon. It's a great choice if you're serious about dictation and plan to use it every day, but may be a bit too much if you're just using it occasionally.

Dragon by Nuance price: $15/month for Dragon Anywhere (iOS and Android); from $200 to $500 for desktop packages

Dragon by Nuance accuracy: 97%. Tested it in the Dragon Anywhere iOS app.

Best free mobile dictation software

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Back to the topic: it has an excellent dictation feature. To start, press the microphone icon on the top-right of the keyboard. An overlay appears on the screen, filling itself with the words you're saying. It's very quick and accurate, which will feel great for fast-talkers but probably intimidating for the more thoughtful among us. If you stop talking for a few seconds, the overlay disappears, and Gboard pastes what it heard into the app you're using. When this happens, tap the microphone icon again to continue talking.

Wherever you can open a keyboard while using your phone, you can have Gboard supporting you there. You can write emails or notes or use any other app with an input field.

The writer who handled the previous update of this list had been using Gboard for seven years, so it had plenty of training data to adapt to his particular enunciation, landing the accuracy at an amazing 98%. I haven't used it much before, so the best I had was 92% overall. It's still a great score. More than that, it's proof of how dictation apps improve the more you use them.

Gboard price : Free

Gboard accuracy: 92%. With training, it can go up to 98%. I tested it using the iOS app while writing a new email.

Best dictation software for typing in Google Docs

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Just like Microsoft offers dictation in their Office products, Google does the same for their Workspace suite. The best place to use the voice typing feature is in Google Docs, but you can also dictate speaker notes in Google Slides as a way to prepare for your presentation.

To get started, make sure you're using Chrome and have a Google Docs file open. Go to Tools > Voice typing , and press the microphone icon to start. As you talk, the text will jitter into existence in the document.

You can change the language in the dropdown on top of the microphone icon. If you need help, hover over that icon, and click the ? on the bottom-right. That will show everything from turning on the mic, the voice commands for dictation, and moving around the document.

It's unclear whether Google's voice typing here is connected to the same engine in Gboard. I wasn't able to confirm whether the training data for the mobile keyboard and this tool are connected in any way. Still, the engines feel very similar and turned out the same accuracy at 92%. If you start using it more often, it may adapt to your particular enunciation and be more accurate in the long run.

Google Docs voice typing price : Free

Google Docs voice typing accuracy: 92%. Tested in a new Google Docs file in Chrome.

Best dictation software for collaboration

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It's not as robust in terms of dictation as others on the list, but it compensates with its versatility. It's a meeting assistant, first and foremost, ready to hop on your meetings and transcribe everything it hears. This is great to keep track of what's happening there, making the text available for sharing by generating a link or in the corresponding team workspace.

The reason why it's the best for collaboration is that others can highlight parts of the transcript and leave their comments. It also separates multiple speakers, in case you're recording a conversation, so that's an extra headache-saver if you use dictation software for interviewing people.

When you open the app and click the Record button on the top-right, you can use it as a traditional dictation app. It doesn't support voice commands, but it has decent intuition as to where the commas and periods should go based on the intonation and rhythm of your voice. Once you're done talking, Otter will start processing what you said, extract keywords, and generate action items and notes from the content of the transcription.

If you're going for long recording stretches where you talk about multiple topics, there's an AI chat option, where you can ask Otter questions about the transcript. This is great to summarize the entire talk, extract insights, and get a different angle on everything you said.

Otter price: Free plan available for 300 minutes / month. Pro plan starts at $16.99, adding more collaboration features and monthly minutes.

Otter accuracy: 93% accuracy. I tested it in the web app on my computer.

Otter supported languages: Only American and British English for now.

Is voice dictation for you?

Dictation software isn't for everyone. It will likely take practice learning to "write" out loud because it will feel unnatural. But once you get comfortable with it, you'll be able to write from anywhere on any device without the need for a keyboard. 

And by using any of the apps I listed here, you can feel confident that most of what you dictate will be accurately captured on the screen. 

Related reading:

This article was originally published in April 2016 and has also had contributions from Emily Esposito, Jill Duffy, and Chris Hawkins. The most recent update was in November 2023.

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Miguel Rebelo

Miguel Rebelo is a freelance writer based in London, UK. He loves technology, video games, and huge forests. Track him down at mirebelo.com.

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Best Dictation Software for Writers and Authors

Rev › Blog › Transcription Blog › Best Dictation Software for Writers and Authors

Dictation software hasn’t always been the most useful tool for writers and authors. It wasn’t too long ago when a writer would have to spend as much time correcting the dictation draft as they would’ve spent just typing their thoughts to begin with.

Luckily, dictation software has come a long way, largely due to the incorporation of AI technology. AI’s ability to filter out background noise and intelligently understand garbled language (including slang) has made AI dictation software an invaluable tool for authors. It’s arguably the fastest way to write a book !

But with so many options out there, what is the best dictation software for writers and authors? Allow us to break it down.

What Is Dictation Software?

Dictation software is a tool that hears spoken words and turns them into text in real time. Often called “speech-to-text,” “voice-to-text,” or “speech-recognition software,” dictation software is an incredibly useful tool for writers who want to capture their raw, unfiltered thoughts. It’s more than note-taking; it’s live storytelling. Imagine dictating entire scenes and passages of your story, instead of typing it out word by word.

Every writer knows the grueling process of staring at a blank page for hours, waiting for inspiration to hit the brain and work its way down to the fingers. With dictation software, you can record thoughts, scenes, and even entire books as they happen in your head, meaning you don’t have to remember and replicate every relevant thought you have throughout the day. Once you’ve captured your story with audio dictation, it’s just a matter of reviewing the text and organizing it into the story you want to tell.

Another way dictation software helps writers and authors is by making it possible for those who cannot type or have difficulty typing to tell their stories. Writers with hearing impairments, hand-related disabilities, or those who have difficulty reading can take notes, organize thoughts, and write entire books with dictation software.

How AI Helps Writers Do More

AI helps writers get more accomplished in a few ways.

First, the addition of AI into dictation software makes the software itself more accurate. AI can understand context to a degree, picking up slang, foreign words, tics, and stutters. It can filter out background noise to better understand garbled or quiet speech, which has traditionally been a downfall of speech-to-text software. You no longer have to be in a pristinely quiet setting to get an accurate recording.

But AI helps writers and authors in an arguably much more important way: eliminating writer’s block. With just a few simple prompts, an AI can generate ideas that a writer or author can run with. It’s not a perfect system, but it sure beats that dreaded blinking cursor on a blank document.

Most of the entries on our list of best dictation software for writers and authors incorporate AI in some fashion. So without further adieu, let’s get to it!

1. Dragon Professional

Dragon Professional isn’t cheap, but it is far and away the most comprehensive dictation software for writers and authors. With a 99% accuracy rating, you can be sure that your thoughts are recorded as intended. Imagine the time you’ll save not making all those corrections.

What sets Dragon Professional apart from other dictation software is its ability to transcribe audio recordings. This means that even if you don’t have the software near you, you can use your phone to capture your thoughts and upload them later into Dragon Pro as if you dictated it live. You can also upload podcasts, interviews, or any other audio files for an accurate transcription. It might be the best dictation app for writing a book simply due to this feature.

Dragon Pro’s $500 price tag is steep, but there is a cheaper option that offers most of the same features without an audio transcription option. Another con of Dragon is that it’s not available on Mac or Apple products.

Price : $500 one-time purchase (with a $200 alternative) Works on : PC Best suited for : Authors who record audio in multiple formats Favorite feature : Audio transcription Potential drawback : High cost

2. Apple Dictation

If you have an iPhone or iPad, you have Apple Dictation. It’s free, pretty accurate (around 95%) and easy to use. It’s fairly bare-bones compared to pricier apps, but if you have an iPhone or iPad, all you have to do is hit the microphone button on your keyboard and start talking.

While its accuracy really can’t compare to, say, Dragon Pro, the easy integration into all your Apple devices and software goes a long way, especially for a free app that comes preloaded into your devices. It’s the best free voice recognition software for Mac, easily.

Price : Free Works on : Apple devices Best suited for : Apple users Favorite feature : Ease of use Potential drawback : Not the best accuracy

3. Rev Online Voice Recorder

Our very own online voice recorder is simple to use. Simply hit the bright red “record” button, speak your piece, and download an MP3 file of your recording. If you’d like to transcribe your recording into text, it’s a simple one-click process to add that to your Rev cart.

Rev recordings and ensuing transcripts are up to 99% accurate. We offer both AI and human transcription options, as well as AI with human assistance for greater accuracy.

Price : Free Works on : Browser-based, with versions for Android and iPhone Best suited for : Those who need a one-stop shop for dictation and transcription Favorite feature : Quickly turn your voice recordings into text (for a fee) Potential drawback : Requires an internet connection

4. Windows Speech Recognition

Windows Speech Recognition isn’t the most accurate dictation software at first, but it works to learn your voice and gets a lot better over time. Once it learns your voice, it’s one of the most accurate of the free dictation software available.

Being limited to Windows-only devices is a drawback, but if you’re a Windows user it’s a great free option, especially if you plan to use it for the long haul.

Price : Free Works on : Windows operating systems Best suited for : Windows users Favorite feature : Adaptive learning Potential drawback : It takes some time to learn your voice

5. Otter.AI

Otter.AI easily connects with prominent meeting software like Zoom and Meet, which makes transcribing meetings in real time a breeze. It’s voice dictation for those who work in groups. The ability to transcribe brainstorming sessions or group conversations is invaluable for team writing.

Otter isn’t designed for solo writing, however, which knocks it down a few notches on the list. That said, none of the other software on this list are great for collecting the thoughts of a group, which is why it’s here. The free version limits you to 600 minutes per month, but a small monthly subscription fee adds 6,000 more minutes. If you want to dive in deep and see how Rev compares to Otter.ai , check out our guide.

Price : Free with an option for $8.33 per month Works on : Most traditional browsers Best suited for : Writing teams Favorite feature : Meeting integration Potential drawback : Not ideal for solo writers

6. Google Keyboard (Gboard)

The Google Keyboard (or Gboard if you’re in the know) comes integrated with a voice-to-text feature. It’s powered by Google AI and has all of Google’s search results at its disposal, so it might be the most powerful dictation software when it comes to understanding accents, slang, and technical terms.

That said, it lags behind other free software in the accuracy department (around 92%). Also, it requires an internet connection to use. But its instant integration with Google Docs is a huge advantage for Google users.

Price : Free Works on : Any device with Chrome Best suited for : Google Docs users Favorite feature : In-app Google search Potential drawback : Relatively low accuracy

7. Braina Dictation Software

If English isn’t your primary language or you need to dictate or transcribe in a foreign language, Braina Dictation Software might be your best choice. It recognizes and transcribes dictation in more than 100 languages and offers a lot more than simple dictation.

In addition to the option to transcribe any audio file you upload, Braina can be used to fill out online forms, dictate and send emails, and transcribe your words directly into a Word or Google document. It’s not quite as accurate as other paid dictation software, but the diversity of options Braina offers more than makes up for that.

Price : $199 lifetime subscription Works on : Windows Best suited for : Those with multiple-language transcription needs Favorite feature : Multi-language recognition Potential drawback : Requires internet connection

8. SpeechNotes

The SpeechNotes dictation app is only available in Google Chrome, so why wouldn’t you just use the Google Keyboard’s dictation feature? Great question!

Unlike Google, SpeechNotes offers a “read aloud” option, so you can review what you just dictated immediately, without having to look at the text. It allows you to make corrections on the go, which can streamline your editing and proofreading process.

While you need internet access to use the dictation feature, SpeechNotes allows you to save your work so you can access it offline if necessary. It’s a free app with a pay-as-you-go option that offers 95% accuracy. But its simple interface and instant review feature make it worth a look.

Price : Free Works on : Android, Google Chrome Best suited for : Those who want to review on the go Favorite feature : Read aloud option Potential drawback : Lack of features

Our Methodology

Every writer and author has a different writing process, so choosing a dictation software can be an intensely personal process, requiring trial runs of multiple applications before a choice is made.

With so many dictation software available, we formulated this list by scouring reviews, reading testimonials, and incorporating our own personal experiences with each software. We also took into consideration cost, ease–of–use, sync ability, and other intangibles.

How To Determine What Dictation Service Is Right for You

Determining what dictation service is right for you is a process of trial and error.

Start by choosing a software that works with your preferred platform (which narrows the field by half in most cases). Then, figure out what features you absolutely must have for your specific work process. After those steps are completed, your list of possibilities is probably pretty short! After that, it’s often a matter of budget and/or personal preference.

Dictation Writing Your Way

There are so many situations where you might need a voice recorder , from simply capturing your thoughts for later, quickly writing your book, or streamlining your editing process . No matter why you use it, voice recording is a vital tool for all sorts of writing.

With so many viable entries in the “best speech-to-text software for writers” conversation, it can be overwhelming to find the perfect software. There’s simply no one-size-fits-all answer, but with a little research and some trial runs, there’s most definitely a dictation software for you and your preferred writing style.

And once you’ve dictated your story, Rev is here with reams of expertise designed to help writers and creators turn their stories into fully formed projects that find their audience. Check out Rev everything has to offer.

Everybody’s Favorite Speech-to-Text Blog

We combine AI and a huge community of freelancers to make speech-to-text greatness every day. Wanna hear more about it?

Speak Your Book: Dictation Software to Write Faster

The use of dictation software might not sound controversial. However…

For those of you who stay blessedly out of toxic internet circles: there used to be, and in some places still is, a debate as to whether audiobooks count as ‘real books,’ and whether listening to an audiobook counts as ‘real reading.’ Obviously, listening to an audiobook is still consuming the book–there’s more than one way to read, it turns out, and audiobooks make reading more accessible. 

As it happens, there’s also more than one way to write. Every author has their preference, whether it be keyboard, longhand, or even typewriter, but we often forget that for most of human history, stories were told orally, and weren’t written down at all. 

And in the twenty-first century, there’s a way to keep telling stories out loud while also writing them down–have you heard of dictation software? 

This guide to dictation software covers:

• What is dictation software?

Should I use dictation software?

• Dictation software for writing books
• Free – Apple Dictation
• Free – Google Docs
• Free – Speechnotes
• Free – Speechtexter
• Paid – Dragon Professional
• Paid – Dragon Anywhere
• Paid – Braina Pro
• Paid – Microsoft Word

What is dictation software? 

Dictation software is software that listens to what you’re saying and writes it down. Sometimes, it also uses voice commands to perform tasks on a computer–something like Siri or Alexa uses dictation software to translate what you’re saying into a command that can turn on your lights or order groceries. 

Essentially, it lets you transcribe your work. You say it out loud, just as you would write it, and the software types it up for you. This might sound newfangled, but it’s actually pretty standard. 

There’s a long history of authors dictating their work. John Milton, for example, dictated all of his work after going completely blind (since he was writing in the 1650’s, though, he had other people transcribe for him in lieu of Google Voice to Text). Dan Brown, author of The Da Vinci Code, claims to have used dictation software to write his rough drafts. 

There are plenty of reasons why an author might choose to dictate their book .

We’ll go through a few of those reasons, and then we’ll talk about some free software options to try, as well as some paid options. 

Well, it can’t hurt to try, regardless of your background. Some writers like to use a mix of longhand and typing to write their work, while others swear by one or the other–I personally like to use longhand for outlining or brainstorming, since longhand forces me to slow down and think through my work. For a rough draft, on the other hand, I like to type, since I want to get the words down as soon as possible. 

That being said, there are a few reasons why you might want to transcribe over longhand or typing. 

1. You’re a great orator 

If you’re great at giving speeches or talks, or if your friends have often told you that you’re a fantastic storyteller in-person, you might be a candidate for dictation software. This way, you can work in the medium you’re most comfortable in, get all your best ideas down, and go back and edit them when you’ve finished. 

This can be especially helpful for people writing memoirs , self-help books, or other personal pieces. Saying your story out loud might make it flow more easily than if you wrote it down–it might feel more like telling a friend, and that can come through in your finished product. 

2. You struggle with typing speed or clear handwriting 

If you’re not the best typist, voice-to-text can be a lifesaver. Struggling to write legibly or type at a pace consistent with the flow of your ideas can get super frustrating, and there’s no need to struggle through that! 

Dictation software can help you work through your ideas and tell your story at your own pace, and since it’s typing everything out for you, you’ll have a perfectly clear body of work to look back on, which can make revisions way easier.

Since these software options all boast pretty good accuracy rates and allow you to go back and edit, you’ll be able to spend much less time at the keyboard and much more time writing . 

3. You like talking through your ideas 

If you love methods like the rubber ducky method or phoning a friend for your stories, look no further. Sometimes, thoughts and concepts can get trapped in our head and stuck. The brainstorming stage is supposed to help with this, but honestly, there are times that we find ourselves just staring at that blank Word doc and wondering why it won’t come through. 

Speech-to-text lets you talk it out and keep a copy of what you’ve said. This will save you from having your ideas slip through the cracks–everything you worked through will be right there for you to refer to, edit , or plop into your draft. 

If this sounds like something you’re interested in, keep reading for a list of free and paid dictation software options to try today! 

Dictation software for writing books 

Looking to try dictation software, but not sure if it’s for you? There’s no need to break the bank!

There’s a ton of free software options available for writers looking to try out this new format–and honestly, a few of these options will even suffice in lieu of a more expensive alternative. 

Free dictation software

Authors-to-be fresh on their way to full authordom often don’t have much to spare with expenses. For that reason, we’ve highlighted both free and paid options for you to choose from.

Apple Dictation

If you’ve got an iPhone or a Mac computer, then you’ve already got access to some pretty good voice-to-text software. The standard version allows you to dictate in thirty-second chunks, but if you have OS X v10.9 or newer, you can use Enhanced Dictation to dictate for longer periods of time. iPhone users looking for a convenient way to use speech-to-text software on the go, look no further! This is also fantastic if you’re an iPhone user who doesn’t have access to a computer. 

Google Docs voice typing 

This is another free feature for Google Docs users. You have to use Chrome to access this feature, but the accuracy is solid, and being built into Google Docs, it’s pretty convenient to use. Additionally, this software supports a huge variety of languages, and it’s constantly working to add more! 

Speechnotes

Compatible with Google Chrome, Speechnotes is a very streamlined speech to text app. It’s a little bare-bones, but it does exactly what it’s supposed to–hit record, start talking, and it transcribes for you. If you prefer to transcribe in longer sessions, this might be ideal. One notable downside is that this app doesn’t have a very efficient storage function, so sorting through lots of files might get difficult. 

Speechtexter

This is another Chrome-compatible speech-to-text software. It allows you to save documents as Word docs or .txt docs, and it has an autosave feature to keep you from losing your work as you go. 

Paid dictation software

If you’ve tried free software and found it lacking, or if you’re looking for a little bit of an upgrade, there are a few professional options to try. These often boast more extensive features and higher accuracy rates, and they’ll generally let you work with more file types. 

Again, if you’re looking to use dictation software, it’s not necessary to spring a few hundred bucks right out the gate. The features on Google Docs or Microsoft Word will be just fine. But if you crave something more, or if you need those additional features, here are a few other options: 

Dragon Professional Individual 

PRICE: $500 (comes with a compatible headset) 

PROS: This software is considered by some to be ‘industry standard.’ It allows you to transcribe existing audio files, its vocabulary grows the more you use it, and it allows you to surf the web, all of which can go a long way in keeping your hands-free experience truly hands-free. 

Dragon Anywhere

PRICE: $150/year (also comes with a week-long free trial) 

PROS: If you need a professional-grade voice-to-text software on your phone, this might be a good option for you. Dragon Anywhere lets you export using a variety of different file types, as well. The free trial is perfect for users who need to complete a short project. 

Braina Pro  

PRICE: $79/year, available on Windows

PROS: This is a great speech to text for someone who wants to get a lot of words down without the software pausing to auto-correct. That said, the software has about 99% accuracy, so you’re not sacrificing much. There’s also a command feature to answer user questions, like a Siri or Google Help might. You can pay either monthly or yearly, so the price is flexible. 

Microsoft Word Speech to Text 

PRICE: If you’re a writer who already uses Microsoft Word, great news! This is a feature you can check out for no additional cost–it’s been waiting for you all along. If not, then you will need to purchase Microsoft 365 for your computer. 

PROS: No setup or installation required–this software is accessible directly through your MS Word document. This software recognizes multiple languages and enables the user to add punctuation and formatting changes using voice commands. Since you access it using a single click from your document, it’s an obvious choice for existing MS Word fans. 

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Speech to Text - Voice Typing & Transcription

Take notes with your voice for free, or automatically transcribe audio & video recordings. amazingly accurate, secure & blazing fast..

~ Proudly serving millions of users since 2015 ~

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Dictate Notes

Start taking notes, on our online voice-enabled notepad right away, for free. Learn more.

Transcribe Recordings

Automatically transcribe (& optionally translate) recordings, audio and video files, YouTubes and more, in no time. Learn more.

Speechnotes is a reliable and secure web-based speech-to-text tool that enables you to quickly and accurately transcribe & translate your audio and video recordings, as well as dictate your notes instead of typing, saving you time and effort. With features like voice commands for punctuation and formatting, automatic capitalization, and easy import/export options, Speechnotes provides an efficient and user-friendly dictation and transcription experience. Proudly serving millions of users since 2015, Speechnotes is the go-to tool for anyone who needs fast, accurate & private transcription. Our Portfolio of Complementary Speech-To-Text Tools Includes:

Voice typing - Chrome extension

Dictate instead of typing on any form & text-box across the web. Including on Gmail, and more.

Transcription API & webhooks

Speechnotes' API enables you to send us files via standard POST requests, and get the transcription results sent directly to your server.

Zapier integration

Combine the power of automatic transcriptions with Zapier's automatic processes. Serverless & codeless automation! Connect with your CRM, phone calls, Docs, email & more.

Android Speechnotes app

Speechnotes' notepad for Android, for notes taking on your mobile, battle tested with more than 5Million downloads. Rated 4.3+ ⭐

iOS TextHear app

TextHear for iOS, works great on iPhones, iPads & Macs. Designed specifically to help people with hearing impairment participate in conversations. Please note, this is a sister app - so it has its own pricing plan.

Audio & video converting tools

Tools developed for fast - batch conversions of audio files from one type to another and extracting audio only from videos for minimizing uploads.

Our Sister Apps for Text-To-Speech & Live Captioning

Complementary to Speechnotes

Reads out loud texts, files & web pages

Listen on the go to any written content, from custom texts to websites & e-books, for free.

Speechlogger

Live Captioning & Translation

Live captions & simultaneous translation for conferences, online meetings, webinars & more.

Need Human Transcription? We Can Offer a 10% Discount Coupon

We do not provide human transcription services ourselves, but, we partnered with a UK company that does. Learn more on human transcription and the 10% discount .

Dictation Notepad

Start taking notes with your voice for free

Speech to Text online notepad. Professional, accurate & free speech recognizing text editor. Distraction-free, fast, easy to use web app for dictation & typing.

Speechnotes is a powerful speech-enabled online notepad, designed to empower your ideas by implementing a clean & efficient design, so you can focus on your thoughts. We strive to provide the best online dictation tool by engaging cutting-edge speech-recognition technology for the most accurate results technology can achieve today, together with incorporating built-in tools (automatic or manual) to increase users' efficiency, productivity and comfort. Works entirely online in your Chrome browser. No download, no install and even no registration needed, so you can start working right away.

Speechnotes is especially designed to provide you a distraction-free environment. Every note, starts with a new clear white paper, so to stimulate your mind with a clean fresh start. All other elements but the text itself are out of sight by fading out, so you can concentrate on the most important part - your own creativity. In addition to that, speaking instead of typing, enables you to think and speak it out fluently, uninterrupted, which again encourages creative, clear thinking. Fonts and colors all over the app were designed to be sharp and have excellent legibility characteristics.

Example use cases

• Voice typing
• Writing notes, thoughts
• Medical forms - dictate
• Transcribers (listen and dictate)

Transcription Service

Start transcribing

Fast turnaround - results within minutes. Includes timestamps, auto punctuation and subtitles at unbeatable price. Protects your privacy: no human in the loop, and (unlike many other vendors) we do NOT keep your audio. Pay per use, no recurring payments. Upload your files or transcribe directly from Google Drive, YouTube or any other online source. Simple. No download or install. Just send us the file and get the results in minutes.

• Transcribe interviews
• Captions for Youtubes & movies
• Auto-transcribe phone calls or voice messages
• Students - transcribe lectures
• Podcasters - enlarge your audience by turning your podcasts into textual content
• Text-index entire audio archives

Key Advantages

Speechnotes is powered by the leading most accurate speech recognition AI engines by Google & Microsoft. We always check - and make sure we still use the best. Accuracy in English is very good and can easily reach 95% accuracy for good quality dictation or recording.

Lightweight & fast

Both Speechnotes dictation & transcription are lightweight-online no install, work out of the box anywhere you are. Dictation works in real time. Transcription will get you results in a matter of minutes.

Super Private & Secure!

Super private - no human handles, sees or listens to your recordings! In addition, we take great measures to protect your privacy. For example, for transcribing your recordings - we pay Google's speech to text engines extra - just so they do not keep your audio for their own research purposes.

Health advantages

Typing may result in different types of Computer Related Repetitive Strain Injuries (RSI). Voice typing is one of the main recommended ways to minimize these risks, as it enables you to sit back comfortably, freeing your arms, hands, shoulders and back altogether.

Saves you time

Need to transcribe a recording? If it's an hour long, transcribing it yourself will take you about 6! hours of work. If you send it to a transcriber - you will get it back in days! Upload it to Speechnotes - it will take you less than a minute, and you will get the results in about 20 minutes to your email.

Saves you money

Speechnotes dictation notepad is completely free - with ads - or a small fee to get it ad-free. Speechnotes transcription is only $0.1/minute, which is X10 times cheaper than a human transcriber! We offer the best deal on the market - whether it's the free dictation notepad ot the pay-as-you-go transcription service.

Dictation - Free

• Online dictation notepad
• Voice typing Chrome extension

Dictation - Premium

• Premium online dictation notepad
• Premium voice typing Chrome extension
• Support from the development team

Transcription

$0.1 /minute.

• Pay as you go - no subscription
• Audio & video recordings
• Speaker diarization in English
• Generate captions .srt files
• REST API, webhooks & Zapier integration

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Privacy Policy

We at Speechnotes, Speechlogger, TextHear, Speechkeys value your privacy, and that's why we do not store anything you say or type or in fact any other data about you - unless it is solely needed for the purpose of your operation. We don't share it with 3rd parties, other than Google / Microsoft for the speech-to-text engine.

Privacy - how are the recordings and results handled?

- transcription service.

Our transcription service is probably the most private and secure transcription service available.

• HIPAA compliant.
• No human in the loop. No passing your recording between PCs, emails, employees, etc.
• Secure encrypted communications (https) with and between our servers.
• Recordings are automatically deleted from our servers as soon as the transcription is done.
• Our contract with Google / Microsoft (our speech engines providers) prohibits them from keeping any audio or results.
• Transcription results are securely kept on our secure database. Only you have access to them - only if you sign in (or provide your secret credentials through the API)
• You may choose to delete the transcription results - once you do - no copy remains on our servers.

- Dictation notepad & extension

For dictation, the recording & recognition - is delegated to and done by the browser (Chrome / Edge) or operating system (Android). So, we never even have access to the recorded audio, and Edge's / Chrome's / Android's (depending the one you use) privacy policy apply here.

The results of the dictation are saved locally on your machine - via the browser's / app's local storage. It never gets to our servers. So, as long as your device is private - your notes are private.

Payments method privacy

The whole payments process is delegated to PayPal / Stripe / Google Pay / Play Store / App Store and secured by these providers. We never receive any of your credit card information.

More generic notes regarding our site, cookies, analytics, ads, etc.

• We may use Google Analytics on our site - which is a generic tool to track usage statistics.
• We use cookies - which means we save data on your browser to send to our servers when needed. This is used for instance to sign you in, and then keep you signed in.
• For the dictation tool - we use your browser's local storage to store your notes, so you can access them later.
• Non premium dictation tool serves ads by Google. Users may opt out of personalized advertising by visiting Ads Settings . Alternatively, users can opt out of a third-party vendor's use of cookies for personalized advertising by visiting https://youradchoices.com/
• In case you would like to upload files to Google Drive directly from Speechnotes - we'll ask for your permission to do so. We will use that permission for that purpose only - syncing your speech-notes to your Google Drive, per your request.

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The Creative Penn

Writing, self-publishing, book marketing, making a living with your writing

How To Dictate Your Book

The word ‘writing' has become associated with hitting keys on a keyboard to make letters appear on a screen or inscribing by hand onto paper. But the end result is a mode of communication from one brain to another through the medium of words . Those words can be generated by your voice, just as people can ‘read' by listening to an audiobook.

Famous authors who have written with dictation include diverse creatives John Milton (Paradise Lost), Dan Brown, Henry James, Barbara Cartland and Winston Churchill. When Terry Pratchett, fantasy author of the Discworld series, developed Alzheimer's Disease, he found he couldn't write anymore, so he moved to dictation in his final years.

So clearly, dictation is a method that can work for many writers and it has become an emerging trend for authors these days as technology makes it easier and faster.

You can watch a video of me explaining this article below, watch it here on YouTube , or read the notes beneath.

[ This is an excerpt from The Healthy Writer: Reduce your Pain, Improve your Health, and Build a Writing Career for the Long-Term by Joanna Penn and Dr Euan Lawson.]

So, why dictate?

(1) health reasons.

You can dictate standing up or while walking, or lying in bed with injuries, or if pain stops you typing.

I started using dictation when I had RSI and used it to write the first drafts of Destroyer of Worlds and also Map of Shadows , plus some chapters for this book, which I dictated while walking along the canal towpath.

Dictation can help alleviate or prevent pain right now, but learning how to write with dictation can also future-proof your living as a writer in case of problems later.

(2) Writing speed and stamina

Dictation is faster at getting words on the page than typing, especially if you are not self-censoring.

I've made it up to around 5000 words per hour with dictation, while I only manage around 1500 words per hour typing.

There is a trade-off with ‘finished' words as you will have to at least lightly edit to correct transcription issues, but if you want to get that first draft done faster, then dictation can be the most effective way.

(3) Increased creativity

Some writers have a problem with perfectionism and the critical voice in a first draft. They struggle to finish a book because they are constantly editing what they have written.

If you dictate, you can bypass this critical voice, get the first draft done and then edit it later.

What's stopping you dictating?

There are a number of reasons why people resist dictation. I know them all because I've been through this journey several times!

The most common are:

• “I'm used to typing. I don't have the right kind of brain for dictation.”

• “I don't want to say the punctuation out loud. It will disrupt my flow.”

• “I write in public so I can't dictate.”

• “I have a difficult accent which will make it impossible.”

• “I write fantasy books with weird names which won't work.”

• “I don't know how to set it up technically.”

• “I can't spare the time to learn how to dictate.”

Here's what I wrote in my journal on the first day I tried dictation before I'd actually even started.

But I learned to type with my fingers, so why can't I learn to type with my words? I just have to practice. Something will shift in my mind at some point, and it will just work. This should make me a healthier author, and also someone who writes faster.

Authors who use dictation are writing incredibly fast. That's what I want. I want to write stories faster as I have so many in my mind that I want to get into the world.”

Here are thoughts from my journal after the first session:

“It felt like the words were really bad and the story clunky and poor. But actually, when the transcription was done and I edited it, it really wasn't as bad as I thought it would be . A classic case of critical voice.

I need to ignore this when I'm dictating. I definitely need to plan the scene more before I speak it, which will save time overall in both dictation and editing.

I did think I would find the punctuation difficult, but that has also been easier than I thought . There are only a few commands that you use regularly, and dialog is the worst but you get into a rhythm with that. It also gives you a pause between each speaker to consider what they might say next, so perhaps it is a blessing in disguise. For the Indian character names, I am just using an easy placeholder word that I will go back and fix later.”

Different methods of dictation

There are two main methods of dictation:

(1) Voice to text in real time

Use a microphone to dictate straight into a text program, and adjust the words on the screen as you go. You may also be using voice commands to do other tasks e.g. open email program, send messages and more.

(2) Dictate now, transcribe later

Use a recording device to record your words now and later have them transcribed. You can send them to a transcription service like Speechpad.com or you can upload them into Dragon Transcription or another program.

I tried real-time speech-to-text and struggled, as watching the words appear on the screen kept my critical voice in the foreground. I wasn't able to speed up as I was always concerned with fixing the errors on-screen.

Now I record directly into my Sony recorder and later on, I upload into Dragon Dictate on my Mac which creates a .txt file. I copy and paste that into Scrivener and lightly edit that file. It's usually pretty exact and this is definitely my preferred process now.

“I'm a storyteller. I know my novel. I have it all outlined, the hundred chapters or so blocked out with, maybe three or four sentences each. I live in Colorado so I'm in the mountains. It's very beautiful scenery and I'll go out walking with my digital recorder and just tell the story in my head.

Now, all writers, they think of a sentence and then they type it. Well, I think of the sentence, then I speak it. I'm going through far fewer steps than somebody who types it because I can just think it and talk.

Rather than mentally deconstruct the sentences into words, and then break those words down into letters, and then type those letters on a keyboard so that it comes up on the screen. That's like seven extra steps to type your stuff.

So, I get to go out walking. I can be on a trail somewhere or a smooth bike path and just be away from the telephone, away from the computer, away from the nagging little Facebook icon that wants me to check my Facebook status and Twitter, or whatever. I'm just synced entirely into the story that I'm writing and I usually walk along the trail until I've dictated one chapter . Then I turn around and I have just enough time to dictate another chapter on the way back home.

I email the audio files to a typist who transcribes. Sometimes, I will transcribe it myself if I'm in a real hurry. But I'd rather spend the hour dictating another couple of chapters so that I can move forward.”

Romance author Elle Casey also talked about her experience in another podcast interview :

“ Before dictation, I used to be tied to my computer and tied to my bed because that happens to be the most comfortable place for me to write and it's the quietest place. But then, I'm stuck in a bedroom while everybody else is outside enjoying the beautiful weather in Southern France, walking the dogs, and doing all that fun stuff.

So I bought a little Sony Dictaphone that’s about half the size of my cell phone and I took one of my dogs for a walk. It was late in the evening and dark out. I started walking and I realized that with the dog keeping part of my attention, I could dictate a chapter without really realizing what was going on. I didn't focus too hard on it, so I let my mind wander.

Now I can take an hour walk with my dog, and I can write 5000 words, whereas 5000 words took me 3-4 hours before. So I have had 15,000 word days just working a few hours. I could literally write a book in two weeks now, start to finish.

That being said, there's always the other side of the coin. It's very rough because first of all, the dictation software doesn't get it exactly right, so you have to go back and polish but also telling a story is a totally different skill than writing a story which is kind of weird.

But there's something going on when you're staring at the screen and you're watching the words versus not seeing the words and just wandering around the Earth somewhere. I have had to build that skill, and it's taken me two months to be a semi-decent storyteller.”

Technical set-up

Speech-to-text technology is improving incredibly fast and will only continue to improve with the mainstream adoption of in-home devices and assistants.

There are different apps and hardware and software options, so you don't need everything listed below. Get started with one variation based on the process you want to use and change as you improve along the way.

Recording device

Your options will depend on how you want to dictate and your budget.

• Use your smartphone to record memos through an app like Voice Memos, Evernote or any recording app. There is also a smartphone Dragon Dictation app which syncs with the cloud.

• Hand-held MP3 recorder. I have the Sony ICD-PX333

• Record straight into your computer/laptop using software like Dragon

• Desktop microphone to use when recording straight into your computer. I use the ATR 2100 and also have a Blue Yeti

• Lavalier microphone/lapel mic for standing/walking which you can plug into your MP3 recorder or smartphone

• I just talk straight into my hand-held MP3 recorder and it works well enough. You could also talk straight into your smartphone.

The quality of your microphone will make a huge difference to the accuracy of your transcription, so if you are having a lot of errors, look at improving/upgrading your microphone first.

Method for transforming speech to text

• Use a transcription service like Speechpad  (which I use for the podcast transcripts) or find a transcriptionist yourself if you prefer the human touch.

• Most authors use Nuance Dragon which has PC and Mac versions and is the most developed speech-to-text software around.

• Use free built-in software on your computer. On a Mac, use Edit -> Start Dictation. On a PC, use Speech Recognition. Most smartphones have a dictation function for taking notes, or you can use Evernote or other apps.

Tips for getting started with dictation

“The biggest advice that I would give for you and for other writers to get started with dictation is don't try to write that way.  The best way to start is to do notes or brainstorming. Take your recorder and just go for a walk. It's almost like free association.”

Kevin J. Anderson

Monica Leonelle, author of Dictate your Book . Listen to an interview with Monica Leonelle on How to Dictate your Book: www.TheCreativePenn.com/monicadictate

“Embrace dictation as a productivity tool. It's a weapon in your writing arsenal and your workflow. Don't treat it like it's something completely alien. We're familiar with the keyboard, but that isn't necessarily the best input method anyway. Input methods keep changing. We've had the quill, and then we had the pen and then we had the typewriter and now we have the computer keyboard. In the last few years, we've had touch. I genuinely believe that the next big input method is voice . In the next 10 years, if you're not embracing voice, you will be behind in the same way as if you don't have a smartphone right now, you're missing out on a lot of technological help.”

Scott Baker, author of The Writer's Guide to Training Your Dragon . Listen to an interview with Scott Baker on How to Use Dictation to Write Faster and Stay Healthy: www.TheCreativePenn.com/scott

My current thoughts on dictation

Because I usually write in public spaces, I booked a room at a local co-working space for two hours a day and dictated there. I had a rough outline of a couple of sentences per scene that I worked through so I knew approximately what I was writing as I went. If I needed to describe a scene, I found examples on the internet and talked about them as I dictated, which replicated my usual research process.

So the writing was faster but the editing was a lot harder . I wrote one chapter on a long walk along the canal and it was a real mess, just a stream of consciousness with some gems in it. It needed a lot of rewriting to make it coherent. I also found my sentences were more passive than my usual writing, so the edit was a lot harder as I had to rewrite sentences.

Then I got the manuscript back from my editor, Jen, who commented, “It really feels like the shift has reinvigorated writing for you.”

So my writing voice has changed through the process of dictation , and perhaps made my story fresher and my ‘voice' clearer. I also improved during the course of dictating the manuscript, so the later chapters are cleaner than the earlier ones. It was a new genre, a new world and new characters, so it's likely that the first draft would have been a bit of a mess even if I had typed it, since I am mostly a pantser.

It's also worth noting that the other novel I dictated, Destroyer of Worlds , was a finalist for the International Thriller Writer awards Best Ebook Original 2017, so the finished product can certainly be a good read!

I'm intending to continue writing with dictation and aim to make it an integral part of my creative process.

This is an excerpt from The Healthy Writer: Reduce your Pain, Improve your Health, and Build a Writing Career for the Long-Term by Joanna Penn and Dr Euan Lawson.

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Dictation-Powered Notes App.

Dictanote is a modern notes app with built-in speech-to-text integration, making it easy for you to voice type your notes in 50+ languages.

Trusted by 100,000+ users. Get it now for free.

Dictanote ratings Rated 4.4/5 out of 800+ reviews

Join 100K+ Dictanote Users

Companies and users from all over the world use Dictanote to work smarter and more productively.

I didn't think it was true but I believe this works better than any other app. Use it every day. It's fantastic.

Russell Sabella

This is a great web app to speak to text for my Windows Laptop. Easy to use and auto-saves your notes. I love it.

Really great app and so easy to use.I could use it right away without any training time and best of all, it recognises my Indian accent also.

Sanjay Rana

This is one of the best dictation apps out there I have to say this is a must for any writer or journalist who needs an accurate and powerful dictation app.

Music Factory Studios

This is a fantastic application, it works flawlessly on linux, and is a great alternative to dragon naturally speaking.

Darian Brown

I have been using dictanote for some time now and I can say that it really helps me in my day to day meetings. I don't need to save my work from time to time since the app do it for me already. More so, I can access my work anytime anywhere.

Louwelyn Andal

Voice Typing

Dictanote accurately transcribes your speech to text in real time. You can add paragraphs, punctuation marks, and even smileys using voice commands.

With over 90% accuracy, Dictanote performs better than most offline services including Dragon Naturally Speaking.

Multi-Lingual Support

Dictanote supports speech recognition in over 50+ languages and 80+ dialects.

Voice Commands

Use voice commands to insert punctuation, technical terms and to correct mistakes.

Keyboard Shortcuts

Use keyboard shortcuts to start/stop dictation and easily switch languages.

New Audio Scribe

Smart ai writing assistant.

Audio Scribe converts your voice notes into clearly summarized text using power of AI.

Dictate your messy thoughts. Audio Scribe transcribes your audio notes using a very high-accuracy model and rewrites the transcript into clear text. It automatically adds punctuations (like periods), removes filler words, repetitions, and 'umms'.

Learn More →

Questions & answers

Find tutorials & help guides in our documentation .

What are the system requirements to use Dictanote?

Dictanote works on the following platforms: * Desktop: Windows/Linux/Mac in Google Chrome and Microsoft Edge. You can install it as a standalone app * Android: in Google Chrome. You can install it as a standalone app * iPhone: Safari 12+ (only editing, no voice dictation support) Additional hardware: inbuilt/external microphone

Are Dictanote and Voice In different products?

Yes, Dictanote and Voice In are two separate products built by the same team addressing different use cases. Dictanote is a note-taking app with built-in voice-to-text integration. Writers use it to write their books, students use it to take notes, etc. Dictanote automatically syncs your notes to the cloud and makes them available on all your devices. Learn more about Dictanote . Voice In is a chrome extension that lets you use speech-to-text to type on any website in Chrome. Use it to type emails in Gmail, enter data into Teladoc, write blogs in WordPress, etc.

Can I convert audio files to text?

Yes, checkout Dictanote Transcribe . Transcribe lets you convert pre-recorded audio files to text.

How does Dictanote keep my data safe?

At Dictanote, we take your privacy seriously. All your notes are stored securely encrypted on Dictanote servers. We do not store or process any of your audio. We rely on Chrome's speech to text API to convert audio to text.

How do I manage my subscription?

To manage your account, go to Account Settings .

To cancel your subscription, on the same page click on “Cancel Subscription” within your account profile. Follow the instructions and the subscription will be cancelled immediately afterward. If you cancel before the end of your subscription period, you will still be able to use your Dictanote Pro account (up to the last day of the subscription).

I need help with Dictanote

Need help with Dictanote? You may find answers to your questions in our Help Center .

Also you can checkout the user forum or contact us via email at [email protected] , we’ll be glad to help!

We may take a few hours to answer your message depending on the time of the day. Usually we answer right away or under 24 hours.

Can I use Dictanote offline?

Dictanote does come up offline-support. You can access and edit your notes while offline. Dictation requires a working internet connection .

Try Dictanote Now

SpeechTexter is a free multilingual speech-to-text application aimed at assisting you with transcription of notes, documents, books, reports or blog posts by using your voice. This app also features a customizable voice commands list, allowing users to add punctuation marks, frequently used phrases, and some app actions (undo, redo, make a new paragraph).

SpeechTexter is used daily by students, teachers, writers, bloggers around the world.

It will assist you in minimizing your writing efforts significantly.

Voice-to-text software is exceptionally valuable for people who have difficulty using their hands due to trauma, people with dyslexia or disabilities that limit the use of conventional input devices. Speech to text technology can also be used to improve accessibility for those with hearing impairments, as it can convert speech into text.

It can also be used as a tool for learning a proper pronunciation of words in the foreign language, in addition to helping a person develop fluency with their speaking skills.

Accuracy levels higher than 90% should be expected. It varies depending on the language and the speaker.

No download, installation or registration is required. Just click the microphone button and start dictating.

Speech to text technology is quickly becoming an essential tool for those looking to save time and increase their productivity.

Powerful real-time continuous speech recognition

Creation of text notes, emails, blog posts, reports and more.

Custom voice commands

More than 70 languages supported

SpeechTexter is using Google Speech recognition to convert the speech into text in real-time. This technology is supported by Chrome browser (for desktop) and some browsers on Android OS. Other browsers have not implemented speech recognition yet.

Note: iPhones and iPads are not supported

List of supported languages:

Afrikaans, Albanian, Amharic, Arabic, Armenian, Azerbaijani, Basque, Bengali, Bosnian, Bulgarian, Burmese, Catalan, Chinese (Mandarin, Cantonese), Croatian, Czech, Danish, Dutch, English, Estonian, Filipino, Finnish, French, Galician, Georgian, German, Greek, Gujarati, Hebrew, Hindi, Hungarian, Icelandic, Indonesian, Italian, Japanese, Javanese, Kannada, Kazakh, Khmer, Kinyarwanda, Korean, Lao, Latvian, Lithuanian, Macedonian, Malay, Malayalam, Marathi, Mongolian, Nepali, Norwegian Bokmål, Persian, Polish, Portuguese, Punjabi, Romanian, Russian, Serbian, Sinhala, Slovak, Slovenian, Southern Sotho, Spanish, Sundanese, Swahili, Swati, Swedish, Tamil, Telugu, Thai, Tsonga, Tswana, Turkish, Ukrainian, Urdu, Uzbek, Venda, Vietnamese, Xhosa, Zulu.

Instructions for web app on desktop (Windows, Mac, Linux OS)

Requirements: the latest version of the Google Chrome [↗] browser (other browsers are not supported).

1. Connect a high-quality microphone to your computer.

2. Make sure your microphone is set as the default recording device on your browser.

To go directly to microphone's settings paste the line below into Chrome's URL bar.

chrome://settings/content/microphone

To capture speech from video/audio content on the web or from a file stored on your device, select 'Stereo Mix' as the default audio input.

3. Select the language you would like to speak (Click the button on the top right corner).

4. Click the "microphone" button. Chrome browser will request your permission to access your microphone. Choose "allow".

5. You can start dictating!

Instructions for the web app on a mobile and for the android app

Requirements: - Google app [↗] installed on your Android device. - Any of the supported browsers if you choose to use the web app.

Supported android browsers (not a full list): Chrome browser (recommended), Edge, Opera, Brave, Vivaldi.

1. Tap the button with the language name (on a web app) or language code (on android app) on the top right corner to select your language.

2. Tap the microphone button. The SpeechTexter app will ask for permission to record audio. Choose 'allow' to enable microphone access.

3. You can start dictating!

Common problems on a desktop (Windows, Mac, Linux OS)

Error: 'speechtexter cannot access your microphone'..

Please give permission to access your microphone.

Click on the "padlock" icon next to the URL bar, find the "microphone" option, and choose "allow".

Error: 'No speech was detected. Please try again'.

If you get this error while you are speaking, make sure your microphone is set as the default recording device on your browser [see step 2].

If you're using a headset, make sure the mute switch on the cord is off.

Error: 'Network error'

The internet connection is poor. Please try again later.

The result won't transfer to the "editor".

The result confidence is not high enough or there is a background noise. An accumulation of long text in the buffer can also make the engine stop responding, please make some pauses in the speech.

The results are wrong.

Please speak loudly and clearly. Speaking clearly and consistently will help the software accurately recognize your words.

Reduce background noise. Background noise from fans, air conditioners, refrigerators, etc. can drop the accuracy significantly. Try to reduce background noise as much as possible.

Speak directly into the microphone. Speaking directly into the microphone enhances the accuracy of the software. Avoid speaking too far away from the microphone.

Speak in complete sentences. Speaking in complete sentences will help the software better recognize the context of your words.

Can I upload an audio file and get the transcription?

No, this feature is not available.

How do I transcribe an audio (video) file on my PC or from the web?

Playback your file in any player and hit the 'mic' button on the SpeechTexter website to start capturing the speech. For better results select "Stereo Mix" as the default recording device on your browser, if you are accessing SpeechTexter and the file from the same device.

I don't see the "Stereo mix" option (Windows OS)

"Stereo Mix" might be hidden or it's not supported by your system. If you are a Windows user go to 'Control panel' → Hardware and Sound → Sound → 'Recording' tab. Right-click on a blank area in the pane and make sure both "View Disabled Devices" and "View Disconnected Devices" options are checked. If "Stereo Mix" appears, you can enable it by right clicking on it and choosing 'enable'. If "Stereo Mix" hasn't appeared, it means it's not supported by your system. You can try using a third-party program such as "Virtual Audio Cable" or "VB-Audio Virtual Cable" to create a virtual audio device that includes "Stereo Mix" functionality.

How to use the voice commands list?

The voice commands list allows you to insert the punctuation, some text, or run some preset functions using only your voice. On the first column you enter your voice command. On the second column you enter a punctuation mark or a function. Voice commands are case-sensitive. Available functions: #newparagraph (add a new paragraph), #undo (undo the last change), #redo (redo the last change)

To use the function above make a pause in your speech until all previous dictated speech appears in your note, then say "insert a new paragraph" and wait for the command execution.

Found a mistake in the voice commands list or want to suggest an update? Follow the steps below:

• Navigate to the voice commands list [↑] on this website.
• Click on the edit button to update or add new punctuation marks you think other users might find useful in your language.
• Click on the "Export" button located above the voice commands list to save your list in JSON format to your device.

Next, send us your file as an attachment via email. You can find the email address at the bottom of the page. Feel free to include a brief description of the mistake or the updates you're suggesting in the email body.

Your contribution to the improvement of the services is appreciated.

Can I prevent my custom voice commands from disappearing after closing the browser?

SpeechTexter by default saves your data inside your browser's cache. If your browsers clears the cache your data will be deleted. However, you can export your custom voice commands to your device and import them when you need them by clicking the corresponding buttons above the list. SpeechTexter is using JSON format to store your voice commands. You can create a .txt file in this format on your device and then import it into SpeechTexter. An example of JSON format is shown below:

{ "period": ".", "full stop": ".", "question mark": "?", "new paragraph": "#newparagraph" }

I lost my dictated work after closing the browser.

SpeechTexter doesn't store any text that you dictate. Please use the "autosave" option or click the "download" button (recommended). The "autosave" option will try to store your work inside your browser's cache, where it will remain until you switch the "text autosave" option off, clear the cache manually, or if your browser clears the cache on exit.

Common problems on the Android app

I get the message: 'speech recognition is not available'..

'Google app' from Play store is required for SpeechTexter to work. download [↗]

Where does SpeechTexter store the saved files?

Version 1.5 and above stores the files in the internal memory.

Version 1.4.9 and below stores the files inside the "SpeechTexter" folder at the root directory of your device.

After updating the app from version 1.x.x to version 2.x.x my files have disappeared

As a result of recent updates, the Android operating system has implemented restrictions that prevent users from accessing folders within the Android root directory, including SpeechTexter's folder. However, your old files can still be imported manually by selecting the "import" button within the Speechtexter application.

Common problems on the mobile web app

Tap on the "padlock" icon next to the URL bar, find the "microphone" option and choose "allow".

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10 Best Speech to Text Tools to Speed Up Your Writing Process

Writing is one of the most common tasks we do in our professional careers. Whether we’re writing a blog post, answering an email, sending a newsletter, or even writing a novel, writing is a slow process. Even for those who type fast, they can usually talk faster than they can type. Fortunately, you can speed up the writing process by using speech to text software.

Many find that software helps them silence their internal editor so they can focus on writing now and editing later. Speech to text software is also great for those who have difficulty using their hands, have dyslexia, etc.

In this article, we’ll look at the 10 best speech to text tools to speed up your writing process. These apps have a high rate of accuracy of usually around 90% or higher. Prices range from free to hundreds of dollars, so there should be something here for every need and budget. The apps are in no particular order.

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• 1 1. Google Docs Voice to Text
• 2 2. Windows Dictation
• 3 3. Apple Dictation
• 4 4. Dragon Professional Individual
• 5 5. Braina
• 6 6. Speechnotes
• 7 7. Dictation
• 8 8. Speech Texter
• 9 9. Voice Finger
• 10 10. e-Speaking
• 11 Ending Thoughts

1. Google Docs Voice to Text

Google Docs Voice to Text works with Chrome browsers when using Google Docs or Google Slides. It’s available in lots of languages. You can add punctuation by saying the name of the punctuation you want to use. It also has voice commands to select, format, edit, add tables, move around the documents, stop or start, open help, and accessibility. It includes a help file with the instructions and all of the commands.

Price: Free | More Information

2. Windows Dictation

Windows Dictation is built into Windows 10. I typed this line with Windows 10 dictation. You have to initialize it, open it, and select the microphone icon, but then it types what you say at the location of your cursor. It works with documents, social media, email, etc. I placed my cursor in the address bar and said “Google dot com, enter” and I was taken to Google. I’ll have to spend some more time with it and learn the commands. The help file includes a list of commands and instructions for typing punctuation, numbers, symbols, and letters. It’s only available in English.

3. Apple Dictation

Apple Dictation is built into Mac, but it has to be turned on and enabled. Siri can do this for you (just say “turn on Dictation”). It has multiple languages and dialects. It has an enhanced mode that works without being connected to the Internet. The help file includes instructions for punctuation, characters, and formatting. It will type wherever you’ve placed your cursor, so it’s great for word processors. It also adapts to your accent.

4. Dragon Professional Individual

Dragon is probably the most well-known name in speech to text software. Dragon Professional Individual was designed specifically for business and professional writing. It syncs with the mobile app, Dragon Anywhere. It does dictation and transcription. It has Deep Learning so it can adapt to your voice and environment. It’s customizable and includes voice commands, editing, and it’s compatible with lots of applications. It works with Windows 7-10, but there are versions of Dragon available for Mac. There’s also a home version available for half the price.

Price: $300 | More Information

Braina is a personal and office productivity application that’s available in both a free and a pro edition. The Pro edition of Braina includes a speech to text feature along with many other features to control your computer with your voice from anywhere in your house or over a Wi-Fi network. It includes over 100 languages. It converts voice into text with any website or application such as Word, Notepad, etc., and includes dictation commands. It’s available for Windows.

Price: $49 | More Information

6. Speechnotes

Speechnotes is an online notepad that takes dictation. It will also read your writing back to you. It only works with Google Chrome. It includes punctuation and formatting. It auto-saves your work as you go. You can store it within folders, download, email, save as a Word document or a text file, upload to your Google Drive , and copy it to your clipboard. It works with 10 different languages. It also has a premium extension for Google Chrome that adds a few simple features such as word count and a quick access button to your Chrome bar.

7. Dictation

Dictation is an online app that works with Google Chrome. It stores the text in your browser, so nothing is uploaded to any website. It records the writing within a text editor and includes some rich text formatting options. It works with lots of languages. You can copy, save as plain text, publish, tweet, play the text as speech, email, and print your text. It includes commands for smileys, special characters, punctuation, quotes, and brackets. It also has a list of phrases to perform certain commands.

8. Speech Texter

Speech Texter is an online app for Chrome that includes lots of formatting options. It has a custom dictionary with short commands to enter data such as punctuation, phone numbers, addresses, etc., and you can add your own commands. It supports over 60 languages with 90% accuracy for most languages and 95% accuracy for English. You can download your file as text or a Word document, or you can print it.

9. Voice Finger

Voice Finger allows you to control your Windows PC vocally and includes a dictation feature. Open your document in any editor, turn on the dictation features, and start talking. This disables the keyboard and mouse by default, but you can turn them back on again with voice commands. You have control over the settings and you can tune it to your voice.

Price: $10 | More Information

10. e-Speaking

e-Speaking is a Windows app that lets you control your PC with 100 built-in voice commands. Its speech to text feature lets you write in any text editor with 26 commands for dictation, navigation, edit the text, add formatting, and add punctuation, numbers, symbols, etc. It includes the list of commands and you can add your own or edit them, and train words so the program responds better to your voice.

Price: $14 | More Information

Ending Thoughts

That’s our look at the 10 best speech to text tools to speed up your writing process. Some work in your browser and provide a simple editor while others work within your operating system and allow you to write with your favorite word processing software.

Whether you’re writing a blog post or the next big novel, if you’re interested in speeding up your writing process with speech to text tools then you’re sure to find what you need on this list.

On a final note, if you are interested in how AI can be used in the realm of text-to-speech, check out our review of Otter Voice Notes . It’s amazing how this technology is evolving!

We want to hear from you. Have you used any of the speech to text tools in this list? Let us know what you think about them in the comments.

Featured Image via Bplanet / shutterstock.com

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By Randy A. Brown

Randy A. Brown is a freelance writer from east TN specializing in WordPress and eCommerce. He's a longtime WordPress enthusiast and loves learning new things and sharing information with others. If he's not writing or reading, he's probably playing guitar.

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10 Comments

Thanks a lot for sharing useful article. All the best.

Wow… I really found this helpful and thanks a lot for the sharing this amazing article. Keep rocking.

Thank you for sharing Voice to Text Converter to speed writing skills. basically, I am using only google tool to voice to text converter. basically, I am looking for the text to voice converter. if you have any idea related to text to voice converter with actual voice with Indian sound. please share. I am waiting for your reply.

What … no Speechmatics…

Please try their website and maybe a comparison between each provider would be helpful?

thanks a lot

Great article! Maybe it’s time I give this speech to text a try.

Good to see this post as Best Speech to Text Tools. I heard & e-Speaking so my experience with e-Speaking was good.

Great article, may I suggest doing one on Text to Voice, with a focus on the most natural sounding voices.

This one is close to my heart since I used to work at a voice to text company back in my intern days, which eventually got bought by Nuance/Dragon.

These days I’m partial to the built-in Apple voice to text, just because I use those devices a lot. But I think whatever tool you pick, it can be a huge time saver and help you get drafts of blog posts out much faster. (I also use it to outline ideas on the go!)

I’m facing this problem it’ll helpful to me in writing anything thank you so much for sharing this info

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#1 Text To Speech (TTS) Reader Online

Proudly serving millions of users since 2015

Type or upload any text, file, website & book for listening online, proofreading, reading-along or generating professional mp3 voice-overs.

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Play Text Out Loud

Reads out loud plain text, files, e-books and websites. Remembers text & caret position, so you can come back to listening later, unlimited length, recording and more.

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The simplest most robust & affordable AI voice-over generating tool online. Mix voices, languages & speeds. Listen before recording. Unlimited!

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Turns your articles, PDFs, emails, etc. into podcasts, so you can listen to it on your own podcast player when convenient, with all the advantages that come with your podcast app.

SpeechNinja says what you type in real time. It enables people with speech difficulties to speak out loud using synthesized voice (AAC) and more.

Battle tested for years, serving millions of users, especially good for very long texts.

Need to read a webpage? Simply paste its URL here & click play. Leave empty to read about the Beatles 🎸

Books & Stories

Listen to some of the best stories ever written. We have them right here. Want to upload your own? Use the main player to upload epub files.

Simply paste any URL (link to a page) and it will import & read it out loud.

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Reads out loud webpages, directly from within the page.

TTSReader for mobile - iOS or Android. Includes exporting audio to mp3 files.

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Make your own website speak your content - with a single line of code. Hassle free.

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Support our development team & enjoy ad-free better experience. Commercial users, publishers are required a premium license.

TTSReader reads out loud texts, webpages, pdfs & ebooks with natural sounding voices. Works out of the box. No need to download or install. No sign in required. Simply click 'play' and enjoy listening right in your browser. TTSReader remembers your text and position between sessions, so you can continue listening right where you left. Recording the generated speech is supported as well. Works offline, so you can use it at home, in the office, on the go, driving or taking a walk. Listening to textual content using TTSReader enables multitasking, reading on the go, improved comprehension and more. With support for multiple languages, it can be used for unlimited use cases .

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Main Use Cases

Listen to great content.

Most of the world's content is in textual form. Being able to listen to it - is huge! In that sense, TTSReader has a huge advantage over podcasts. You choose your content - out of an infinite variety - that includes humanity's entire knowledge and art richness. Listen to lectures, to PDF files. Paste or upload any text from anywhere, edit it if needed, and listen to it anywhere and anytime.

Proofreading

One of the best ways to catch errors in your writing is to listen to it being read aloud. By using TTSReader for proofreading, you can catch errors that you might have missed while reading silently, allowing you to improve the quality and accuracy of your written content. Errors can be in sentence structure, punctuation, and grammar, but also in your essay's structure, order and content.

Listen to web pages

TTSReader can be used to read out loud webpages in two different ways. 1. Using the regular player - paste the URL and click play. The website's content will be imported into the player. (2) Using our Chrome extension to listen to pages without leaving the page . Listening to web pages with TTSReader can provide a more accessible, convenient, and efficient way of consuming online content.

Turn ebooks into audiobooks

Upload any ebook file of epub format - and TTSReader will read it out loud for you, effectively turning it into an audiobook alternative. You can find thousands of epub books for free, available for download on Project Gutenberg's site, which is an open library for free ebooks.

Read along for speed & comprehension

TTSReader enables read along by highlighting the sentence being read and automatically scrolling to keep it in view. This way you can follow with your own eyes - in parallel to listening to it. This can boost reading speed and improve comprehension.

Generate audio files from text

TTSReader enables exporting the synthesized speech with a single click. This is available currently only on Windows and requires TTSReader’s premium . Adhering to the commercial terms some of the voices may be used commercially for publishing, such as narrating videos.

Accessibility, dyslexia, etc.

For individuals with visual impairments or reading difficulties, listening to textual content, lectures, articles & web pages can be an essential tool for accessing & comprehending information.

Language learning

TTSReader can read out text in multiple languages, providing learners with listening as well as speaking practice. By listening to the text being read aloud, learners can improve their comprehension skills and pronunciation.

Kids - stories & learning

Kids love stories! And if you can read them stories - it's definitely the best! But, if you can't, let TTSReader read them stories for you. Set the right voice and speed, that is appropriate for their comprehension level. For kids who are at the age of learning to read - this can also be an effective tool to strengthen that skill, as it highlights every sentence being read.

Main Features

Ttsreader is a free text to speech reader that supports all modern browsers, including chrome, firefox and safari..

Includes multiple languages and accents. If on Chrome - you will get access to Google's voices as well. Super easy to use - no download, no login required. Here are some more features

Fun, Online, Free. Listen to great content

Drag, drop & play (or directly copy text & play). That’s it. No downloads. No logins. No passwords. No fuss. Simply fun to use and listen to great content. Great for listening in the background. Great for proof-reading. Great for kids and more. Learn more, including a YouTube we made, here .

Multilingual, Natural Voices

We facilitate high-quality natural-sounding voices from different sources. There are male & female voices, in different accents and different languages. Choose the voice you like, insert text, click play to generate the synthesized speech and enjoy listening.

Exit, Come Back & Play from Where You Stopped

TTSReader remembers the article and last position when paused, even if you close the browser. This way, you can come back to listening right where you previously left. Works on Chrome & Safari on mobile too. Ideal for listening to articles.

Vs. Recorded Podcasts

In many aspects, synthesized speech has advantages over recorded podcasts. Here are some: First of all - you have unlimited - free - content. That includes high-quality articles and books, that are not available on podcasts. Second - it’s free. Third - it uses almost no data - so it’s available offline too, and you save money. If you like listening on the go, as while driving or walking - get our free Android Text Reader App .

Read PDF Files, Texts & Websites

TTSReader extracts the text from pdf files, and reads it out loud. Also useful for simply copying text from pdf to anywhere. In addition, it highlights the text currently being read - so you can follow with your eyes. If you specifically want to listen to websites - such as blogs, news, wiki - you should get our free extension for Chrome

Export Speech to Audio Files

TTSReader enables exporting the synthesized speech to mp3 audio files. This is available currently only on Windows, and requires ttsreader’s premium .

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Visit our contact page , for various ways to get in touch with us, send us feedback and interact with our community of users & developers.

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10 Ways to Write Faster and Better With Dragon Naturally Speaking

• September 4, 2023

I quickly learned how to be a faster and better writer with Dragon Naturally Speaking; my only regret is I waited so long to use speech recognition software in my work. I was introduced to Dragon Naturally Speaking more than five years ago but I hesitated to invest in it because I didn’t think it would work for me. Boy, was I wrong!

Not only had I heard about Dragon Naturally Speaking way back in 2011, I actually published a guest post here on Blossom (then called Quips and Tips for Successful Writers) about Dragon. Sharon Hurley Hall was the writer who shared her tips on using speech recognition software for writing blog posts and magazine articles.

Here’s one reader’s comment about Dragon for writers:

“Thanks for this interesting article on Dragon Naturally Speaking,” says Marv on How to Use Speech Recognition Software – 5 Tips for Writers (Shirley’s article). “I’ve been thinking about writing with speech recognition software for a couple of years now. But I hesitate because I think it won’t help my writing skills. In fact, I think it could be detrimental because I’m writing less and talking more. What do you think of that? Could Dragon Naturally Speaking actually ‘dumb down’ your writing skills?”

On the contrary! Dragon Naturally Speaking doesn’t decrease your skills as a writer. Dictating into speech recognition software can actually improve your writing and editing skills, help you write faster and better, and make you a more productive writer. Dictating your thoughts will help you write more words, sentences, paragraphs, articles, blog posts, chapters, and books than you could ever do by typing alone.

A quick list of the 10 ways Dragon has helped me write fast and better:

• Allows me to write a 2,500 word article in less than 2 hours
• Reveals my writing quirks and weaknesses in a fresh new way
• Helps me find flow, which improves my writing speed
• Encourages me to be more expressive and heartfelt in my writing
• Gives me time to respond to readers’ comments on my blogs
• Lets me use hand and arm gestures
• Trains my brain to solve new and different problems
• Reduces the strain on my fingers, wrists, and forearms
• Increases my sense of emotional and mental well-being
• Will soon improve my physical fitness levels

My only regret with Dragon Naturally Speaking is that I waited so long to buy it.

Even though I’d heard writers talk about speech recognition software on various productivity and writing podcasts, I didn’t think it would work for me. Why? Because I thought that as a “professional writer” I’d actually need to type words. Dictating did not seem like writing to me.

Here’s why I am so glad I invested in Dragon, and how it is making me a better writer. If you’re on the fence about whether or not you should buy Dragon, I encourage you to try it. What have you got to lose? You can always return it and get your money back if it doesn’t work for you!

10 Ways Dragon Helps Me Write Faster and Better

Yes, I am “writing” this blog post with Dragon’s speech recognition software 🙂

Here’s the number one reason I decided to buy speech recognition software: speaking speed versus typing speed. I can talk 110-150 words per minute – but I can only type about 50 words per minute. Which leads me to my first tip for writing faster with Dragon Naturally Speaking…

1. Dragon allows me to “write” a 2,500 word article in less than 2 hours

I’m a full-time blogger; my sole source of income is my Blossom blogs. I hired writers in the past to contribute blog posts but I found that not only did I not like editing their writing, I also spent too much time doing administrative tasks (eg, paying invoices, chasing writers to submit their invoices so I could pay them, teaching writers how to create invoices, etc).

It’s extremely important that I produce at least one blog post per day. I need to “feed the machine” so I can continue making money as a blogger . Plus, I love writing! That’s one of the reasons I didn’t think Dragon Naturally Speaking would work for me as a writer. I didn’t think I’d be comfortable dictating my blog posts and articles. After all, isn’t the mark of a “real writer” someone who actually uses their hands and fingers to write words? Possibly.

Dragon allows me to write and edit a 2,500 word article in less than two hours. I can have it posted on my blog – along with images and resources for readers – within 30 minutes. This saves me one hour every morning. Huge! A miracle! That translates to at least five hours a week. Since I earn about $40 per hour, I can potentially use that time to make an extra $200 every week. Shazam!

2. Speech recognition software reveals my writing peccadillos in new ways

Dragon is not only teaching me how to write faster, it’s also revealing my weaknesses as a writer. For example, I’m learning through speech recognition software how often I use commas and exclamation marks! I actually already knew that I overuse exclamation marks, so Dragon merely reinforced this insight into my own writing. But still, it was good to learn that I still tend to lean too much on those exclamation marks when I write.

As a writer, you want to learn as much as you can about your own writing habits, quirks, and weaknesses. Speech recognition software helps you by revealing how you write – if you pay attention. Also – directly related to the first way that Dragon Naturally Speaking can help you learn how to write faster and better – it gives you more time to study and improve your writing peccadillos.

3. Dragon helps me find flow, which increases my writing speed

This, I’m still working on. As a writer I always always always struggle to stop editing as I write.

I can’t just leave a sentence and keep writing if there’s something wrong with that last sentence! I’d hoped that using speech recognition software would help me separate my writing from my editing, but it hasn’t yet. And it’s been five whole days since I bought Dragon and started dictating my writing.

I do find flow when I “write” with Dragon Naturally Speaking – but only if I keep my eyes locked on the view outside my office window. If I watch Dragon type my dictation on the computer screen in front of me, I tend to keep going back and editing what I just wrote. This is not a good tip for writing faster and and better. It’s much more productive and efficient to find flow and write that first draft, and then edit later.

4. Speaking encourages me to write from the heart

I didn’t expect to write differently with speech recognition software, and I really didn’t expect Dragon Naturally Speaking to change my writing voice. But it has! I’ve found that my writing is more creative and expressive when I dictate my articles than when I’m simply typing.

I’m not sure why this is. It’s possibly because when I’m typing my fingers can’t keep up with my brain so I can’t get everything on the screen. But when I’m talking and using speech recognition software I can express more thoughts, feelings, and opinions than I could possibly type. So this is helping me write better by making me more expressive. This is particularly helpful in the next tip on how to write faster and better with Dragon Naturally Speaking

5. Dragon gives me time to respond to readers’ comments on my blogs

Responding to readers’ comments on my Blossom blogs has been a thorn in my side since 2008 (when I first started blogging).

I write blog posts that deal with painful problems in love and life. Readers respond by sharing their own personal problems and asking for advice. I don’t give advice. I’m a writer, I love blogging about personal problems, but I just can’t tell people how to solve their problems.

I’m grateful to Dragon speech software for helping me respond to readers’ comments in a fresh new way! I can actually give readers my thoughts from my heart and spirit, and it takes less than five minutes per comment. It amazes me because I always felt bad about not being able to respond to my readers…yet I just didn’t have the time to comment in any way, much less try to reach out in love and compassion. Now, I can respond to readers quickly and painlessly.

6. Speech recognition software lets me use hand and arms

Do you sometimes get excited or passionate when you write? Do you find that you need your hands and arms to help you express your feelings? I didn’t realize how important my hand and arm gestures are in my thought processes and communication abilities. So now that I’m using speech recognition software to write my articles, my hands and arms are free to gesticulate or wave madly in the air or nervously twirl the string on my bunny hug.

Moving my arms and hands as I speak my articles helps me find the right words because it frees my body to be part of what I’m trying to say. This goes back to being a more expressive and heartfelt writer. I never thought that speech recognition software would help me find my writer’s voice, but it really has.

7. Dragon trains my brain to solve new and different problems

True confessions time: I use a Mac, and this article “How to Write Faster and Better – Dragon Naturally Speaking” just crashed for the first time. And with any type of software – speech recognition or not – there will be glitches, problems, and frustrations. So while I love using Dragon speech software to write my blog posts and respond to readers comments, I’m not saying it’s a perfect system.

Pause for a problem writing with Dragon Naturally Speaking: just now I realized that I often have problems when I’m dictating at the page break area in documents in my MacBook Pro. There must be something about the page break that Dragon Naturally Speaking isn’t able to maneuver well. I guess dragons just can’t leap over the moats of page breaks in Macs. Good to know!

Learning new things, such as what Dragon does and does not do well for writers, is very good for our writing brains. It teaches problem-solving skills and new methods of communication. The more active your brain, the more agile it will be now…and when you are in your 80s.

8. Speech recognition software reduces the strain on my wrists and forearms

Back to the 10 ways Dragon Naturally Speaking is helping me learn how to write faster and better: the beast of carpal tunnel syndrome.

I’ve been working on the keyboard and mouse all day every day since 2008, and have been noticing a tightening in my forearm and thumb area on my right hand. My mother-in-law had surgery for carpal tunnel syndrome a couple years ago. Her right hand and arm was out of commission for a full month after her surgery. I don’t want that!

Dragon speech recognition software is a perfect way to avoid repetitive strain. Why? Because instead of writing a blog post for two hours straight – and responding to readers comments for an hour a day – I am now talking instead of typing for those three hours every day. That gives my arms, hands, and forearms time to rest. This is crucial for writers who want to avoid carpal tunnel syndrome.

If you deal with repetitive strain injury, read How to Avoid Carpal Tunnel Syndrome for Writers .

9. Dragon increases my sense of emotional and mental well-being

I feel incredibly good about myself as a blogger ever since I’ve been writing articles faster and responding to readers comments in heartfelt ways. I just feel better about my work habits since I started using speech recognition software. I really do like dictating my articles – and that does surprise me.

And of course the better I feel about myself, the more productive I’ll be as a writer. My self-esteem has a direct relationship to my ability to write better and faster. It’s a direct correlation: the better I feel about myself, the more I’ll write. And the more I write with Dragon, the better I feel about myself. Upward spiral.

10. Dragon will soon help improve my physical fitness levels

Can you guess what my next investment is in myself as a writer who wants to learn how to write faster and better?

No, not a Speech Recognition Headset for Dragon Naturally Speaking  – but that would be awesome. I just use the built-in microphone on my Mac.

My next investment – which is actually waiting for me downstairs – is a treadmill desk! Yes, I finally did it! I bought a treadmill that I can walk on while I write. I’ve been wanting a treadmill desk for three or four years. Since I made over $41,000 in December as an Amazon affiliate, I decided to finally buy myself a treadmill desk. I will start using it this afternoon, and will let you know next week how I fare on it. Will a treadmill desk help me write faster and better? I don’t know. But Dragon speech software will definitely help me right while walking on a treadmill.

Do you need tips on how to write faster and better, but don’t think speech recognition software is for you? Read 6 Ways to be a More Productive Writer or Blogger .

Resources for Dragon Naturally Speaking software

You can buy  Dragon Naturally Speaking  through Amazon or Nuance.com. I purchased the digital copy, which still comes with a money-back guarantee. I’m not sending it back, though!

Dragon Naturally Speaking is:

• The fastest and most accurate way to interact with your computer; Dragon dramatically boosts your personal productivity and helps you realize your full potential
• A personalized, voice-driven experience; Dragon gets even more accurate as it learns the words and phrases you use the most, spelling even difficult words and proper names correctly
• The best way to create, format and edit documents because voice allows you to think out loud and break through barriers to creativity

Speech software really has increased my productivity as a writer – but  I do need help with a few little things, such as how to train Dragon spell Laurie instead of Lori when I say my name.

And so….

The Writer’s Guide to Training Your Dragon: Using Speech Recognition Software to Dictate Your Book and Supercharge Your Writing Workflow  by Scott Baker is an excellent resource for the nitty-gritty details of how to use speech recognition software.

Dragon Naturally Speaking is easy to use, but there are a few things I still need to learn. I haven’t taken the time to explore the actual software itself to learn its features and benefits; a book like  The Writer’s Guide to Training Your Dragon is perfect.

Scott Baker first began using Dragon voice recognition software in the late 1990s (when it was terrible!). NaturallySpeaking has improved dramatically since then, and Scott now uses dictation on a daily basis. In his book, he shares the tricks and techniques used by professionals within the speech recognition industry to write thousands of words per hour.

Okay, fellow scribes, how many typos and errors did you spot in this blog post about writing faster and better with speech recognition software? I did not go back to edit this article. I edited as I wrote even though I promised myself I would stop doing that.

Luckily, I’m not writing for the New York Times. 🙂

Need encouragement? Get my weekly update!

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4 thoughts on “10 Ways to Write Faster and Better With Dragon Naturally Speaking”

I’m still learning how to use Dragon NaturallySpeaking, but it has definitely sped up my writing and blogging productivity.

I had never heard about Dragon speaking software, but will look into it. I want to increase my productivity as a writer!

Hey Sharon, glad to hear from you 🙂

I’m still learning how to use Dragon NaturallySpeaking, but it has definitely sped up my writing and blogging productivity. I’m actually walking on my treadmill and using Dragon right now! Soon, I will write a blog post about walking and writing at the same time.

Take good care of yourself, for you are worth taking good care of.

– Laurie

So glad you’ve decided to give Dragon a try, Laurie. The latest versions really ARE excellent. I can’t imagine writing without it, now. I totally agree with the benefits. For bloggers, especially, Dragon lets us write like we speak, and of course, time saving and saving the wrists are huge benefits.

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Anyone here use speech to text for writing?

Sad to say, I have some bad news about my hands that might mean I can't type for four hours straight. To give my hands a break while still writing, I'm thinking about using Google Voice. Does anyone have any ideas about what's different about this? What makes speech-to-text tools different from typing, if you use them? Are there any traps I should watch out for?

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Chicago-Style Citation Quick Guide

Chicago-style source citations come in two varieties: (1) notes and bibliography and (2) author-date. If you already know which system to use, follow one of the links above to see sample citations for a variety of common sources. If you are unsure about which system to use, or how the two systems are related, read on.

Notes and Bibliography or Author-Date?

In the notes and bibliography system, sources are cited in numbered footnotes or endnotes. Each note corresponds to a raised (superscript) number in the text. Sources are also usually listed in a separate bibliography. The notes and bibliography system, Chicago’s oldest and most flexible, can accommodate a wide variety of sources, including unusual ones that don’t fit neatly into the author-date system. For this reason, it is preferred by many working in the humanities, including literature, history, and the arts.

In the author-date system, sources are briefly cited in the text, usually in parentheses, by author’s last name and year of publication. Each in-text citation matches up with an entry in a reference list, where full bibliographic information is provided. Because it credits researchers by name directly in the text while at the same time emphasizing the date of each source, the author-date system is preferred by many in the sciences and social sciences.

Aside from the use of numbered notes versus parenthetical references in the text, the two systems share the same style for authors’ names, titles of works, and other cited components. Follow the links at the top of this page to see examples of some of the more common source types cited in both systems.

Most authors choose the system used by others in their field or required by their publisher. Students should check with their instructor before deciding which system to use.

For a more comprehensive overview of Chicago’s two systems of source citation, see chapter 13 of The Chicago Manual of Style . For many more examples organized by type of source, consult chapter 14 .

Watch CBS News

Ashley Biden introduces her father at DNC as the "OG girl dad" and one of the most "consequential" leaders in history

By Kathryn Watson

August 20, 2024 / 10:12 AM EDT / CBS News

Ashley Biden, President Biden's 43-year-old daughter who typically stays out of the spotlight, introduced her father Monday night at the first night at the  Democratic National Convention in Chicago as he delivered one of his final and most historic speeches in his time as president and a public servant. 

A social worker in Philadelphia, Ashley Biden offered a different side to her father, as not just one of the "most consequential leaders ever in history," but also as the "OG girl dad."

"He told me I could be anything and I could do anything," she said. 

"And he wasn't just a girl dad. I could see that he valued and trusted women," Ashley Biden said. "How he listened to his mother. How he believed in his sister. And most of all, how he respected my mother's career. Dad was always there doing everything he could to be a true partner to her. Dad, you always tell us but we don't tell you enough that you are the love of our lives and the life of our love." 

Ashley Biden said that on her eighth birthday, her father, a U.S. senator at the time, took the Amtrak train from Washington, D.C., to Delaware just to hug her and watch her delight at seeing her birthday cake. 

She also recalled her wedding reception in her parents' backyard more than a decade ago, when Mr. Biden was vice president, and made sure that the backyard was perfect. 

"And by the way, he was very emotional," she said. "I thought that I would be a mess, but he was the one crying, and I was the one that had to comfort him."

All these years later, Ashley Biden said, "Dad, you are still my best friend." 

When Beau Biden died of brain cancer in 2015, Ashley Biden said she and her brother Hunter didn't know if the pain would ever subside. Mr. Biden has often said it should be Beau in the Oval Office, not him. 

"Dad had the capacity to step out of his own pain and absorb ours," she said. "And I know Beau is with us tonight, as he is always with us."

The president has lost two of his four children, since his first wife and daughter died in a crash in 1972. Hunter and Beau were also badly injured. 

Ashley Biden pleaded with the supportive crowd to work harder than ever before. 

"So tonight, I am asking you if you stood with us in 2020, call upon your courageous heart," she said. "Stand with us today. Work harder than you have ever worked before in your life. This is the fight of our lifetime."

After her speech, the president took a moment to dab at his eyes, the emotion of the moment overwhelming him, and called her "incredible."

Ashley Biden was a frequent prescence at her brother Hunter's trial earlier this year in Wilmington, Delaware, on federal gun charges. Hunter Biden, who was convicted in June , made an appearance at the end of Mr. Biden's speech with his children. 

Kathryn Watson is a politics reporter for CBS News Digital, based in Washington, D.C.

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Trump to Oprah: I remember when you loved me. Here’s the proof.

• Updated: Aug. 22, 2024, 9:37 a.m.
• | Published: Aug. 22, 2024, 9:26 a.m.

Oprah Winfrey speaks during the Democratic National Convention Wednesday, Aug. 21, 2024, in Chicago. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite) AP

• Matt Arco | NJ Advance Media for NJ.com

Donald Trump ’s campaign quickly reminded people Wednesday that Oprah Winfrey was once a fan of the former president.

But, unfortunately for Trump, that ship has sailed.

The media mogul and iconic talk-show host gave an energetic speech in support of Kamala Harris at the Democratic National Convention. In a convention designed to needle Trump, Winfrey portrayed him as selfish and Harris as focused on the needs of everyday Americans rather than her own.

She said of freedom, “Every now and then, it requires standing up to life’s bullies.”

Winfrey — who long filmed her famous talk show in Chicago — offered a full-throated endorsement of Harris and characterized her campaign by singing out, “Joy!” She added: “Decency and respect are on the ballot in 2024, ... let us choose common sense over nonsense.”

Trump’s campaign, in response, posted a letter to social media that Winfrey wrote him in January 2000 in response to an excerpt Trump sent her from his book “The America We Deserve.” Trump wrote in the book Winfrey would be his “first choice for vice president.”

“Donald — I reviewed the book excerpt. I have to tell you, your comments made me a little weepy. It’s one thing to try and live a life of integrity — still another to have people like you actually notice. Thank you,” she wrote at the time.

Winfrey added: “Too bad we’re not running for office. What a team!”

Oprah's letter to President Trump: pic.twitter.com/QY1kYifPJS — Trump War Room (@TrumpWarRoom) August 22, 2024

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

Stories by Matt Arco

• What is ‘white man boomerang’? And why it might cost Harris election vs. Trump
• Trump supporter RFK Jr. just filed to get on ballot in this state. Why?
• Former Obama staffer: Trump spending money in this state shows Harris ‘landslide’

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Samantha Putterman, PolitiFact Samantha Putterman, PolitiFact

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• Copy URL https://www.pbs.org/newshour/politics/fact-checking-warnings-from-democrats-about-project-2025-and-donald-trump

Fact-checking warnings from Democrats about Project 2025 and Donald Trump

This fact check originally appeared on PolitiFact .

Project 2025 has a starring role in this week’s Democratic National Convention.

And it was front and center on Night 1.

WATCH: Hauling large copy of Project 2025, Michigan state Sen. McMorrow speaks at 2024 DNC

“This is Project 2025,” Michigan state Sen. Mallory McMorrow, D-Royal Oak, said as she laid a hardbound copy of the 900-page document on the lectern. “Over the next four nights, you are going to hear a lot about what is in this 900-page document. Why? Because this is the Republican blueprint for a second Trump term.”

Vice President Kamala Harris, the Democratic presidential nominee, has warned Americans about “Trump’s Project 2025” agenda — even though former President Donald Trump doesn’t claim the conservative presidential transition document.

“Donald Trump wants to take our country backward,” Harris said July 23 in Milwaukee. “He and his extreme Project 2025 agenda will weaken the middle class. Like, we know we got to take this seriously, and can you believe they put that thing in writing?”

Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, Harris’ running mate, has joined in on the talking point.

“Don’t believe (Trump) when he’s playing dumb about this Project 2025. He knows exactly what it’ll do,” Walz said Aug. 9 in Glendale, Arizona.

Trump’s campaign has worked to build distance from the project, which the Heritage Foundation, a conservative think tank, led with contributions from dozens of conservative groups.

Much of the plan calls for extensive executive-branch overhauls and draws on both long-standing conservative principles, such as tax cuts, and more recent culture war issues. It lays out recommendations for disbanding the Commerce and Education departments, eliminating certain climate protections and consolidating more power to the president.

Project 2025 offers a sweeping vision for a Republican-led executive branch, and some of its policies mirror Trump’s 2024 agenda, But Harris and her presidential campaign have at times gone too far in describing what the project calls for and how closely the plans overlap with Trump’s campaign.

PolitiFact researched Harris’ warnings about how the plan would affect reproductive rights, federal entitlement programs and education, just as we did for President Joe Biden’s Project 2025 rhetoric. Here’s what the project does and doesn’t call for, and how it squares with Trump’s positions.

Are Trump and Project 2025 connected?

To distance himself from Project 2025 amid the Democratic attacks, Trump wrote on Truth Social that he “knows nothing” about it and has “no idea” who is in charge of it. (CNN identified at least 140 former advisers from the Trump administration who have been involved.)

The Heritage Foundation sought contributions from more than 100 conservative organizations for its policy vision for the next Republican presidency, which was published in 2023.

Project 2025 is now winding down some of its policy operations, and director Paul Dans, a former Trump administration official, is stepping down, The Washington Post reported July 30. Trump campaign managers Susie Wiles and Chris LaCivita denounced the document.

WATCH: A look at the Project 2025 plan to reshape government and Trump’s links to its authors

However, Project 2025 contributors include a number of high-ranking officials from Trump’s first administration, including former White House adviser Peter Navarro and former Housing and Urban Development Secretary Ben Carson.

A recently released recording of Russell Vought, a Project 2025 author and the former director of Trump’s Office of Management and Budget, showed Vought saying Trump’s “very supportive of what we do.” He said Trump was only distancing himself because Democrats were making a bogeyman out of the document.

Project 2025 wouldn’t ban abortion outright, but would curtail access

The Harris campaign shared a graphic on X that claimed “Trump’s Project 2025 plan for workers” would “go after birth control and ban abortion nationwide.”

The plan doesn’t call to ban abortion nationwide, though its recommendations could curtail some contraceptives and limit abortion access.

What’s known about Trump’s abortion agenda neither lines up with Harris’ description nor Project 2025’s wish list.

Project 2025 says the Department of Health and Human Services Department should “return to being known as the Department of Life by explicitly rejecting the notion that abortion is health care.”

It recommends that the Food and Drug Administration reverse its 2000 approval of mifepristone, the first pill taken in a two-drug regimen for a medication abortion. Medication is the most common form of abortion in the U.S. — accounting for around 63 percent in 2023.

If mifepristone were to remain approved, Project 2025 recommends new rules, such as cutting its use from 10 weeks into pregnancy to seven. It would have to be provided to patients in person — part of the group’s efforts to limit access to the drug by mail. In June, the U.S. Supreme Court rejected a legal challenge to mifepristone’s FDA approval over procedural grounds.

WATCH: Trump’s plans for health care and reproductive rights if he returns to White House The manual also calls for the Justice Department to enforce the 1873 Comstock Act on mifepristone, which bans the mailing of “obscene” materials. Abortion access supporters fear that a strict interpretation of the law could go further to ban mailing the materials used in procedural abortions, such as surgical instruments and equipment.

The plan proposes withholding federal money from states that don’t report to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention how many abortions take place within their borders. The plan also would prohibit abortion providers, such as Planned Parenthood, from receiving Medicaid funds. It also calls for the Department of Health and Human Services to ensure that the training of medical professionals, including doctors and nurses, omits abortion training.

The document says some forms of emergency contraception — particularly Ella, a pill that can be taken within five days of unprotected sex to prevent pregnancy — should be excluded from no-cost coverage. The Affordable Care Act requires most private health insurers to cover recommended preventive services, which involves a range of birth control methods, including emergency contraception.

Trump has recently said states should decide abortion regulations and that he wouldn’t block access to contraceptives. Trump said during his June 27 debate with Biden that he wouldn’t ban mifepristone after the Supreme Court “approved” it. But the court rejected the lawsuit based on standing, not the case’s merits. He has not weighed in on the Comstock Act or said whether he supports it being used to block abortion medication, or other kinds of abortions.

Project 2025 doesn’t call for cutting Social Security, but proposes some changes to Medicare

“When you read (Project 2025),” Harris told a crowd July 23 in Wisconsin, “you will see, Donald Trump intends to cut Social Security and Medicare.”

The Project 2025 document does not call for Social Security cuts. None of its 10 references to Social Security addresses plans for cutting the program.

Harris also misleads about Trump’s Social Security views.

In his earlier campaigns and before he was a politician, Trump said about a half-dozen times that he’s open to major overhauls of Social Security, including cuts and privatization. More recently, in a March 2024 CNBC interview, Trump said of entitlement programs such as Social Security, “There’s a lot you can do in terms of entitlements, in terms of cutting.” However, he quickly walked that statement back, and his CNBC comment stands at odds with essentially everything else Trump has said during the 2024 presidential campaign.

Trump’s campaign website says that not “a single penny” should be cut from Social Security. We rated Harris’ claim that Trump intends to cut Social Security Mostly False.

Project 2025 does propose changes to Medicare, including making Medicare Advantage, the private insurance offering in Medicare, the “default” enrollment option. Unlike Original Medicare, Medicare Advantage plans have provider networks and can also require prior authorization, meaning that the plan can approve or deny certain services. Original Medicare plans don’t have prior authorization requirements.

The manual also calls for repealing health policies enacted under Biden, such as the Inflation Reduction Act. The law enabled Medicare to negotiate with drugmakers for the first time in history, and recently resulted in an agreement with drug companies to lower the prices of 10 expensive prescriptions for Medicare enrollees.

Trump, however, has said repeatedly during the 2024 presidential campaign that he will not cut Medicare.

Project 2025 would eliminate the Education Department, which Trump supports

The Harris campaign said Project 2025 would “eliminate the U.S. Department of Education” — and that’s accurate. Project 2025 says federal education policy “should be limited and, ultimately, the federal Department of Education should be eliminated.” The plan scales back the federal government’s role in education policy and devolves the functions that remain to other agencies.

Aside from eliminating the department, the project also proposes scrapping the Biden administration’s Title IX revision, which prohibits discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity. It also would let states opt out of federal education programs and calls for passing a federal parents’ bill of rights similar to ones passed in some Republican-led state legislatures.

Republicans, including Trump, have pledged to close the department, which gained its status in 1979 within Democratic President Jimmy Carter’s presidential Cabinet.

In one of his Agenda 47 policy videos, Trump promised to close the department and “to send all education work and needs back to the states.” Eliminating the department would have to go through Congress.

What Project 2025, Trump would do on overtime pay

In the graphic, the Harris campaign says Project 2025 allows “employers to stop paying workers for overtime work.”

The plan doesn’t call for banning overtime wages. It recommends changes to some Occupational Safety and Health Administration, or OSHA, regulations and to overtime rules. Some changes, if enacted, could result in some people losing overtime protections, experts told us.

The document proposes that the Labor Department maintain an overtime threshold “that does not punish businesses in lower-cost regions (e.g., the southeast United States).” This threshold is the amount of money executive, administrative or professional employees need to make for an employer to exempt them from overtime pay under the Fair Labor Standards Act.

In 2019, the Trump’s administration finalized a rule that expanded overtime pay eligibility to most salaried workers earning less than about $35,568, which it said made about 1.3 million more workers eligible for overtime pay. The Trump-era threshold is high enough to cover most line workers in lower-cost regions, Project 2025 said.

The Biden administration raised that threshold to $43,888 beginning July 1, and that will rise to $58,656 on Jan. 1, 2025. That would grant overtime eligibility to about 4 million workers, the Labor Department said.

It’s unclear how many workers Project 2025’s proposal to return to the Trump-era overtime threshold in some parts of the country would affect, but experts said some would presumably lose the right to overtime wages.

Other overtime proposals in Project 2025’s plan include allowing some workers to choose to accumulate paid time off instead of overtime pay, or to work more hours in one week and fewer in the next, rather than receive overtime.

Trump’s past with overtime pay is complicated. In 2016, the Obama administration said it would raise the overtime to salaried workers earning less than $47,476 a year, about double the exemption level set in 2004 of $23,660 a year.

But when a judge blocked the Obama rule, the Trump administration didn’t challenge the court ruling. Instead it set its own overtime threshold, which raised the amount, but by less than Obama.

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Russia-France ties hit new low after Telegram boss' arrest, Moscow says

Relations between Moscow and Paris have reached a nadir following the arrest of Russian-born Telegram boss Pavel Durov, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said on Tuesday, after the tech billionaire's detention was extended until Wednesday.

Read Aloud & TTS: AI Speechy 17+

Text to speech & auido reader, taha eren buyruk, designed for ipad.

• 4.3 • 131 Ratings
• Offers In-App Purchases

Screenshots

Description.

Convert text to speech with ease! Ideal for education, practicing languages, or listening on the go. Experience smooth, natural voices reading with Read Aloud Speechy! Introducing Speechy: The Ultimate Book Reader and Voice Aloud Reader for Everyone Experience the power of Speechy, the advanced book reader and voice aloud reader app designed to cater to everyone's needs. With its cutting-edge T2S technology and AI TTS capabilities, Speechy empowers users to effortlessly convert text into high-quality audio, making reading accessible to all. Whether you prefer to read out loud, use it as a screen reader, or have text read to you, Speechy is the perfect companion for an enhanced reading experience. Book Reader for Everyone: With Speechy's intuitive book reader feature, everyone can dive into an immersive reading experience tailored to their preferences. Whether you're a student, a professional, or an avid reader, Speechy's book reader adapts to you. Voice Aloud Reader: Speechy serves as your personal voice aloud reader, transforming written text into captivating audio for everyone to enjoy. With Speechy, every word comes to life with expressive voices that make the content engaging and accessible. T2S Text to Voice: Experience the magic of Speechy's T2S technology, which seamlessly converts written text into lifelike and expressive voices. The T2S capability of Speechy opens up a world of possibilities for readers of all backgrounds. AI TTS (Artificial Intelligence Text-to-Speech): Thanks to Speechy's advanced AI algorithms, the AI TTS feature delivers natural and engaging voices that make reading a delightful experience for everyone. The AI TTS technology ensures high-quality audio output. Read Out Loud: Sit back, relax, and let Speechy read out loud for you. Whether you're multitasking or simply prefer listening to text, Speechy's read out loud feature provides an immersive and convenient way to consume written content. Screen Reader: Speechy's integrated screen reader functionality is a game-changer for users with reading disabilities or visual impairments. The screen reader feature ensures that everyone can access and enjoy written content effortlessly. Read to Me: Whether you're on the move or engaged in other activities, Speechy can read text to you, transforming any moment into a delightful listening experience. The read to me feature allows you to enjoy your favorite books or articles hands-free. Discover More Features Tailored for Everyone: - Scan physical book pages with your device camera, enabling Speechy to convert them into accessible audio content. This feature is particularly useful for those who prefer physical books or need assistance with reading. - Enjoy Speechy's wide language support, offering over 27 languages and 174 natural voice accents. The diverse language options ensure that Speechy can cater to users from different regions and cultures. - Customize the reading speed to meet individual preferences, adjusting it up to 900 words per minute. Speechy allows you to find the optimal reading speed that suits your comfort and pace. - Import online articles, PDFs, clipboard-copied text, or even photos of physical book pages, and let Speechy read them aloud using its powerful T2S text to voice technology. This functionality ensures that all types of content can be consumed through Speechy. - With Speechy's file organization feature, you can effortlessly manage your reading materials and locate them whenever needed. - Experience Speechy's voice aloud reader functionality offline, without the need for an internet connection. This allows you to enjoy uninterrupted reading sessions wherever you are. Download Speechy now and embark on a transformative audio reading journey. Explore the inclusive features of our book reader, voice aloud reader, T2S text to voice, AI TTS, read out loud, screen reader, and read to me functionalities. Let Speechy revolutionize your reading experience, making it accessible and enjoyable for everyone. Privacy Policy: https://sites.google.com/view/speechy-privacy-policy Terms of Use: https://sites.google.com/view/speechy-terms-of-use

Version 2.9.8

Thank you for choosing Speechy! Love the Speechy? Rate us! Your feedback keeps the Speechy app growing. - Bug fixes

Ratings and Reviews

131 Ratings

Useful application

I listen to some technical manuals on my travels with this application. It’s much better to listen to them rather than reading from a small phone screen. It would be great if I could reach my books folder. Thanks anyway

Developer Response ,

Hi boss the innovator, Thank you for your feedback and high rating! We're happy you like our app. We’ve made several improvements since your review, including your feature request. Now you can access your books folder. If you have any more questions or need further assistance, please let us know at [email protected]. Best regards, Read aloud: Speechy

Does the jop

It help me a lot. I only download good quality voices

Hi ceren19072001, Thank you for your feedback and high rating! We're happy you like our app. Best regards, Read aloud: Speechy

Improve this application

Reading is sufficient, but what I don’t like is that it stops at every page. And if you select the wrong thing, it loses the page and goes back to the beginning of the book. Additionally, there is no book mark. So you cannot find where you left off and you cannot guarantee the page that you left off when you come back to the book. Improve this.

Hi, Thank you for your feedback. We’re sorry to hear about the issues you’ve experienced with the app. We understand the inconvenience of the app stopping at every page and losing your place if a selection is made incorrectly. We’re working on improving the reading experience, including adding bookmarks and ensuring that the app remembers your place in the book. We appreciate your input as it helps us enhance the app. If you have any further suggestions or need assistance, please reach out to us at [email protected]. Thank you for your patience. Best regards, Read aloud: Speechy

App Privacy

The developer, Taha Eren Buyruk , indicated that the app’s privacy practices may include handling of data as described below. For more information, see the developer’s privacy policy .

Data Used to Track You

The following data may be used to track you across apps and websites owned by other companies:

Data Linked to You

The following data may be collected and linked to your identity:

• User Content

Data Not Linked to You

The following data may be collected but it is not linked to your identity:

Privacy practices may vary, for example, based on the features you use or your age. Learn More

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Full Transcript of Michelle Obama’s Speech at the Democratic Convention

The former first lady spoke for just over 20 minutes and told the convention that “hope is making a comeback.”

• Share full article

By The New York Times

• Aug. 21, 2024

OK. We got a big night ahead. Thank you all so much. Thank you so much. OK. There you go.

Hello, Chicago! Yeah. All right. Something wonderfully magical is in the air, isn’t it? You know, we’re feeling it here in this arena, but it’s spreading across this country we love. A familiar feeling that has been buried too deep for far too long. You know what I’m talking about. It’s the contagious power of hope.

The anticipation, the energy, the exhilaration of once again being on the cusp of a brighter day. The chance to vanquish the demons of fear, division and hate that have consumed us and continue pursuing the unfinished promise of this great nation, the dream that our parents and grandparents fought and died and sacrificed for.

America, hope is making a comeback.

Yeah. But, to be honest, I am realizing that, until recently, I have mourned the dimming of that hope. And maybe you’ve experienced the same feelings, that deep pit in my stomach, a palpable sense of dread about the future.

And for me, that mourning has also been mixed with my own personal grief. The last time I was here in my hometown was to memorialize my mother — the woman who showed me the meaning of hard work and humility and decency, the woman who set my moral compass high and showed me the power of my own voice.

Folks, I still feel her loss so profoundly. I wasn’t even sure if I’d be steady enough to stand before you tonight, but my heart compelled me to be here because of the sense of duty that I feel to honor her memory. And to remind us all not to squander the sacrifices our elders made to give us a better future.

You see, my mom, in her steady, quiet way, lived out that striving sense of hope every single day of her life. She believed that all children, all — all people have value. That anyone can succeed if given the opportunity. She and my father did not aspire to be wealthy. In fact, they were suspicious of folks who took more than they needed. They understood that it wasn’t enough for their kids to thrive if everyone else around us was drowning.

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