Scenario
Writing is a big part of most working days. You might need to draft emails, create documents, take meeting notes, update records, or send Teams messages. For some people, typing feels slow, tiring, uncomfortable or painful. Others may find that their thoughts move faster than they can type.
You know what you want to say, but getting the words onto the screen can take time and effort. This can make everyday tasks more exhausting than they need to be.
What is getting in the way?
Typing relies on speed, accuracy and repeated hand movements. Conditions that affect mobility, dexterity, energy levels or concentration can make typing more difficult. Even if you can type, long periods of keyboard use can lead to fatigue or discomfort.
Typing may be difficult because of:
- dyslexia
- pain, fatigue or reduced mobility
- repetitive strain injuries
- arthritis or other physical conditions
- temporary injury
- simply finding it easier to talk than type
Tools that can help
Speech-to-text tools let you dictate your words instead of typing them. As you speak, your device converts your speech into text in real time. This can help you draft emails, write documents, take notes and send messages more quickly, while reducing the physical effort of using a keyboard.
Depending on what you are doing, these built-in tools can help:
- Dictation in Microsoft 365
- Voice Typing in Windows
- Voice Access
- Windows Speech Recognition
These tools convert your speech into text so you can write emails, notes, reports and messages using your voice. You can find out more in Somerset Work Your Way’s Guide to Microsoft Dictate.
You do not need to try every tool. Start with one small change and see what helps.
