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Before you start
Use a microphone-enabled device and a reliable internet connection. For Word on the web, sign in to Microsoft 365 and allow the browser to use the microphone when prompted. Feature availability and controls vary between desktop, web, and mobile versions of Word.
Microsoft’s general desktop guidance says Dictate is available to Microsoft 365 subscribers. Availability can also depend on the Word app and version, so check your account entitlement and platform if you do not see the control.
How to dictate in Word
- Open a Word document and place the cursor where you want the dictated text.
- Choose Home > Dictate.
- If prompted, grant Word or your browser microphone permission.
- Wait until Dictate indicates it is listening, then speak clearly.
- To stop, choose Close (X) on the Dictation toolbar or select Dictate again.
On Windows, Microsoft’s Dictate help also lists Alt + ` (backquote) as a microphone toggle shortcut. The ribbon control is the simplest place to start.
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Choose a language and punctuation settings
On desktop Word, open the Dictation toolbar settings to inspect or change the spoken language, microphone, and automatic punctuation when those options are available. Microsoft says the default language follows the Office document language. In Word for the web, the document language is the default; Microsoft directs users to full desktop Word to change it.
Language and command support vary. Some preview languages may have lower accuracy or limited punctuation support, so check the options available for your selected language rather than assuming all languages work the same way.
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Use punctuation and correct mistakes
You can speak punctuation and editing commands when supported by the selected language. For example, Word for the web’s English command list includes “period” or “full stop,” “comma,” “question mark,” “new line,” “delete that,” and “undo.” Consult the command list for your language because supported commands differ.
Review the transcript as you work. Word may offer suggestions, and you can make corrections with the keyboard while the microphone remains on. Microsoft’s Dictate help notes that corrections cannot currently be made fully by voice.
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Fix common Dictate problems
Dictate is missing
Check that you are signed in to the Microsoft 365 account with the required entitlement, then confirm that your Word app and platform support Dictate. For Word on the web, refresh the page and grant microphone permission if asked.
Word cannot hear you
- Check that the microphone is connected and not muted.
- In your device’s sound settings, select the intended microphone and confirm it is working at a usable input level.
- Allow Word or your browser to access the microphone.
- Move to a quieter location. If the built-in microphone performs poorly, try a headset or a microphone that plugs into your device.
- Confirm that your internet connection is reliable.
Word Dictate and Windows Voice Access
| Option | Where it works | What it does |
|---|---|---|
| Word Dictate | Inside supported Word apps | Dictates into a Word document using the in-app Dictate control. |
| Windows Voice Access | Windows 11, version 22H2 and later | Controls the PC and can author text in fields, including a Word document; it is separate from Word’s Dictate control. |
Microsoft describes Voice Access as a Windows accessibility feature that can work offline after setup. Use Word Dictate for the in-app workflow; use Voice Access when you also need to control Windows by voice.
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FAQ
How do I start voice typing in Word?
Open a document, choose Home > Dictate, grant microphone access if prompted, wait for the listening indicator, and speak.
Why is the Dictate button missing in Word?
Check that you are signed in to the right Microsoft 365 account and have the required entitlement. Also confirm your Word app and platform support Dictate. In Word for the web, refresh and check browser microphone permission.
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How do I stop dictation in Word?
Choose Close (X) on the Dictation toolbar or select Dictate again. On Windows, Microsoft’s help also lists Alt + ` as a microphone toggle shortcut.
Can I change the dictation language?
On desktop Word, use the Dictation toolbar settings to inspect or change the spoken language when available. Word for the web uses the document language by default; Microsoft points users to full desktop Word to change it.
Can I correct mistakes while dictating?
Yes. Use available suggestions or the keyboard while the microphone is on. Microsoft says corrections cannot currently be made fully by voice, so review and edit the transcript.
Is Windows Voice Access the same as Word Dictate?
No. Word Dictate is an in-app feature for dictating into a document. Windows Voice Access is an accessibility feature for controlling Windows and authoring text in fields.
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