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Using Dictation (Speech-to-Text) with PERRLA

Shane
Updated

PERRLA works with the dictation tools built into your computer, phone, and word processor. Dictation types your words into the paper just like your keyboard does, and PERRLA treats them exactly the same – your formatting, references, and citations all stay intact.

Here's how to start dictating on each platform.

PERRLA Online (Writing in Your Browser)

Use your device's built-in dictation. It types straight into PERRLA's editor.

  • Mac: Press the Dictation shortcut (often the microphone key, or double-press the Fn key), then speak. You can turn on Dictation under System Settings > Keyboard > Dictation.
  • Windows: Press the Windows key + H to open voice typing, then speak.
  • iPad or iPhone: Tap the microphone icon on the keyboard.

PERRLA for Word

PERRLA for Word works with two dictation options:

  • Word's built-in Dictate button – on the Home tab of the ribbon, click Dictate and start talking.
  • Your device's dictation – the same Mac and Windows shortcuts above work in Word, too.

Write your paper by voice, then use the PERRLA panel to add references and citations just like you normally would.

PERRLA for Google Docs

Google Docs has voice typing built in:

  1. Open your paper in Google Docs (using Chrome). 
  2. Click Tools, then click Voice typing. 
  3. Click the microphone icon and start speaking. 

Using Dragon

Dragon works best with PERRLA through its Dictation Box. Dictate your text into the Dictation Box, then transfer it into your paper. This is Dragon's recommended approach for writing in a web browser, and it keeps everything clean on the PERRLA side.

Tips for Dictating a Paper

  • Speak your punctuation. Say "period," "comma," or "new paragraph" as you go.
  • Dictate your writing; click your citations. Dictation handles your sentences. When it's time to cite, use PERRLA's citation tools like you normally would – they only take a click or two.
  • Proofread before you turn it in. Dictation is good, but it isn't perfect. A quick read-through catches the words it misheard.

Questions?

You can reach PERRLA's Customer Support team through the Contact Support feature inside any PERRLA application, through the Help Center (at the bottom of every page), or directly at support@perrla.com.