Dictation converts your speech into typed text anywhere the Mac shows a text cursor, including Mail, Notes, Messages, Pages, documents, and browser fields. It is built into macOS and starts with a keyboard shortcut once enabled.
This guide applies to recent macOS versions.
Does This Affect You?
Use Dictation if speaking an email, note, or document is faster or more comfortable than typing it manually.
Turn On and Start Dictation
- Open System Settings > Keyboard.
- Find Dictation and turn it on.
- Choose the language and confirm the Dictation shortcut, commonly pressing the Fn key twice.
- Click in any text field.
- Press the Dictation shortcut and wait for the microphone indicator.
- Speak normally and watch text appear.
- Press the shortcut again, press Escape, or click away to stop.
The first use may ask for permission to process speech. Some Macs and languages support on-device dictation after language data is downloaded; others may need an internet connection.
Add Punctuation and Formatting by Voice
- Say punctuation commands such as comma, period, question mark, and exclamation point where you want them inserted.
- Say new line for a line break.
- Say new paragraph for a paragraph break.
- Say cap before a word to capitalize it.
- Use caps on and caps off for a longer capitalized phrase.
- Say open parenthesis and close parenthesis when needed.
Dictation Tips and Fixes
Speak Steadily
Dictation works best with a natural pace. Very long pauses can make it think you are finished, and noisy rooms reduce accuracy.
Check Shortcut Conflicts
If Dictation does not start, make sure Siri or another feature is not using the same key combination.
Confirm Language
The selected Dictation language must match what you are speaking. Add additional languages in Keyboard settings if needed.
Dictation vs Voice Control
Dictation types spoken words. Voice Control, found under Accessibility, controls the Mac by voice and can click buttons, open apps, and navigate the interface.
Sources
- Apple Support: Use Dictation on your Mac
- Apple Support: Dictation commands on Mac
- Apple Support: Use Voice Control on Mac