How to Enable and Use the MacOS Dictation Feature

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Quick Answer: To enable MacOS Dictation, go to System Preferences > Keyboard > Dictation, and turn on Dictation. You can then use the microphone button, menu bar option, or a keyboard shortcut to start dictating text.

Verify Voice Control Status

Before diving into Dictation, it’s essential to ensure that Voice Control is disabled. This ensures a smooth and uninterrupted experience. Follow these steps:

  1. Open the Apple menu.
  2. Select System Preferences.

  1. Navigate to Accessibility.

  1. Click on Voice Control and ensure it is turned off.

Enable Dictation

Now, let’s enable the Dictation feature on your Mac:

  1. Open System Preferences from the Apple menu.

  1. Select Keyboard.

  1. Choose the Dictation tab.
  2. Toggle Dictation to ON.

  1. If prompted, opt to enable Dictation and Siri improvements.

Initiating Dictation

With Dictation enabled, you can start using it in any text input field. Here are three methods to initiate Dictation:

Microphone Button:

  1. Locate the microphone button on your keyboard (usually in the function key row).
  2. Press and release it when you’re ready to start dictating.

Menu Bar:

  1. Open any app with a text field.
  2. Go to the Edit menu and choose Start Dictation.

Keyboard Shortcut:

  1. Create a dedicated Dictation key:
    • In System Preferences, select Keyboard.

  • Choose Shortcuts and then Dictation.
  • Set up a preferred keyboard shortcut.

Using Dictation

Understanding the Dictation feedback window is crucial for a smooth experience:

Microphone Indicator:

  • A fluctuating microphone icon indicates Dictation is active.

Punctuation and Formatting:

  • Dictation automatically inserts common punctuation marks.
  • Use voice commands like “new paragraph” or “new line” for formatting.

Ending Dictation:

  • Finish Dictation by pressing the Return key or your chosen keyboard shortcut.
  • Dictation also ends after 30 seconds of inactivity.
Privacy Settings

Consider your privacy preferences when using Dictation:

  1. Go to System Preferences.

  1. Navigate to Privacy & Security.

  1. Choose Analytics & Improvement.

  1. Click Improve Siri & Dictation to adjust sharing settings.

Advanced Options

Explore additional features for enhanced Dictation:

  1. Enhanced Dictation:
    • Check if Enhanced Dictation is available in the Dictation settings for offline use.
    • Enable it to use Dictation without an internet connection.
Conclusion

By following these steps, you’ve successfully enabled and set up the MacOS Dictation feature. Enjoy the convenience of converting speech to text and explore the customization options to enhance your Mac experience.