What is Dictate?
Dictate is a speech-to-text feature built into Microsoft Word, Outlook, and other Microsoft 365 applications. It allows users to speak into their microphone and have their words automatically transcribed into written text.
Who this can help
This tool can help if you:
- prefer speaking instead of typing
- find typing slow, difficult, or uncomfortable
- want a quicker way to get your thoughts down
- have accessibility needs that make using a keyboard harder
What this tool can do
Microsoft Dictate allows you to:
- turn spoken words into written text
- add basic punctuation by saying it out loud (for example, “comma” or “full stop”)
create emails, documents, or notes without using a keyboard
It works in Microsoft apps like Word and Outlook, and in some browser-based versions of Microsoft 365.
Tips for getting the best experience
- Speak clearly and at a steady pace
- Try to use it in a quiet space with minimal background noise
- Say punctuation as you go (for example, “new line” or “question mark”)
- Don’t worry if it’s not perfect—small corrections are normal
It may take a little practice to feel comfortable, and that’s okay.
How to use Dictate
- Open a Microsoft app such as Word or Outlook
- Click where you want your text to appear
- Select the Dictate button (microphone icon)
- Allow microphone access if prompted
- Start speaking
Your words should appear on the screen as you speak. You can pause or stop Dictate at any time by clicking the microphone button again.
Adding in punctuation, paragraphs and structure
Dictate will tend to leave you with a paragraph of text often with spelling mistakes of names or places. To fix this you can either manually type the changes, or go to CoPilot and ask it to rephrase including punctuation and correct grammar.
Alternatively, you can dictate straight into CoPilot, however users have reported that they often have an easier experience of using it in Word. Give it a try and see what works best for your needs.
For more tips about using CoPilot and other AI tools please visit our Using AI to support your accessibility needs page.