Try the “Dictate” function in Microsoft Word or Outlook

Did you know that the most recent versions of Microsoft Word and Outlook offer a voice dictation option? Added in a recent software update, Microsoft Word and Outlook have added a voice dictation option. Both programs now feature a “Dictate” button that, when clicked, transcribes anything spoken into written text on the page.

To access the “Dictate” option, navigate either to the “Voice” section on the Home tab of Word or the message tab of Outlook. If you don’t see the option, open the dropdown list (indicated by “…”) on the far right of the Message tab when composing an email.

Through both menus, you can now access the “Dictate” option. Just click the button to begin.

You can insert punctuation while in Dictate mode by saying the punctuation out loud. For instance, “period” or “full stop” will create a .

To exit dictation, click the Dictate button again.

If you’d like to use a different language, Microsoft offers a number of options. Just click the arrow below “Dictate” in Word or to the side of “Dictate” in Outlook and select your preferred language from the dropdown list.

Microsoft offers an involved guide for punctuation, editing, formatting, and other functions that can be done within Dictation here: https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/office/dictate-your-documents-in-word-3876e05f-3fcc-418f-b8ab-db7ce0d11d3c

If you have further questions or experience trouble with any part of this process, please contact the Help Desk.