Summary
How to turn on and use Dictation (speech-to-text) on Mac, iPad, and iPhone, including enabling it in settings, starting and stopping, and adding punctuation by voice. Applies to Bowdoin community members using Apple devices.
Body
Questions
- How do I type with my voice instead of the keyboard?
- How do I turn on Dictation on my Mac?
- How do I dictate text on my iPad or iPhone?
- How do I add punctuation while dictating?
- How do I stop dictation?
Environment
This article applies to Bowdoin community members using Apple devices — Mac (macOS), iPad (iPadOS), and iPhone (iOS). Dictation converts your speech into text in most apps where you can type.
Resolution
Dictate on a Mac
- Choose Apple menu > System Settings > Keyboard.
- Turn on Dictation, then click Enable when prompted.
- Place your cursor where you want text, then press the Microphone key, use your Dictation shortcut, or choose Edit > Start Dictation.
- Speak naturally. Say punctuation such as "comma" or "new paragraph."
- Press Esc, the Microphone key, or your shortcut to stop.
Dictate on iPad or iPhone
- Go to Settings > General > Keyboard and turn on Enable Dictation.
- Tap in a text field to show the onscreen keyboard.
- Tap the Microphone button on the keyboard and begin speaking.
- Speak punctuation and commands such as "period" or "new line."
- Tap the keyboard button (or the Microphone again) to stop.
Note: On Apple silicon Macs you can keep typing while Dictation is active, and Dictation has no fixed time limit. Available voice commands and punctuation vary by language.
Additional Help
If you need further assistance, you have several options:
- Bowdoin Bot: Chat with Bowdoin Bot directly from any KB page for instant answers.
- Phone: Call the Bowdoin College Service Desk at (207) 725-3030.
- In person: Visit the Tech Hub in Smith Union during business hours.
- Submit a ticket: Request assistance through the Service Catalog.
Additional Resources