How to use the Dictation Feature in Mac OS X El Capitan

Description: This article will show how to turn on and use the dictation feature in Mac OS X. The dictation feature comes pre-installed and is speech recognition software where a microphone can be used instead of a keyboard to populate text.

  1. From the Mac OS X home screen, click on the Apple Menu.
    Menu Bar, Apple Menu
  2. Choose System Preferences.
    Apple Menu, System Preferences
  3. Select Dictation & Speech.
    System Preferences, Dictation & Speech
  4. Press the radio button next to Dictation: On to turn dictation on and then click the X in the upper left hand corner.
    Dictation & Speech, Dictation On, Close
  5. Open the targeted program. In this example, Notepad is the targeted program.
    Close, Notes
  6. Click Edit and then Start Dictation.
    Notes, Edit, Start Dictation
  7. Start speaking into the Mac and then press Done when finished.
    Start Dictation, Done when finished

Technical Support Community

Free technical support is available for your desktops, laptops, printers, software usage and more, via our new community forum, where our tech support staff, or the Micro Center Community will be happy to answer your questions online.

Forums

Ask questions and get answers from our technical support team or our community.
PC Builds
Help in Choosing Parts
Troubleshooting

Knowledge Base

Helpful articles written by Micro Center Experts.
ESET
Windows

Sign in for the best experience

Access helpful features and personalize your experience - Sign in or create an account now

Sign In
Don't have an account? Create Account