Use speech-to-text in Windows 10, 11 and Microsoft Word will write what you speak. Here’s how

Did you know that Windows 10 offers a convenient feature that many users are not aware of? Speech-to-text! This feature allows you to dictate text instead of typing it manually, making it especially useful for those, who struggle with typing efficiency.

Here’s how to turn on speech-to-text

1. Click Start, select Settings.
2. Choose Time & Language.

3. Click Speech in the navigation.
4. Set up microphone if needed.
5. Select Speech, inking & typing privacy settings. Toggle switch to On in Online speech recognition.

Once you've enabled speech-to-text, you can start dictating text in any window or field that accepts text input, including word processing apps, Notepad and search boxes. To begin dictation, open the desired application or window and press the keyboard shortcut Win + H. Start speaking naturally, and you will see your words appearing as text. Total magic!

It's important to note that speech recognition will pause if you pause for more than a few moments or if you click in a different window using the mouse. To resume, simply click the microphone icon in the control at the top of the screen. To temporarily stop voice recognition, you can close the control.

FAQs

1. Can I use speech-to-text in any application or window?
   Yes, you can use speech-to-text in any window or field that accepts text input. This includes word processing apps, Notepad, search boxes and more.
2. What keyboard shortcut do I need to use for speech-to-text?
   The keyboard shortcut for speech-to-text on Windows is Win + H. Pressing these keys will open the speech recognition control at the top of the screen, allowing you to start dictating.