Applies ToWindows 11 Windows 10
Voice access replaced Windows Speech Recognition (WSR) for Windows 11 22H2 and later versions in September 2024. WSR is available in older versions of Windows. To learn more about voice access, go to Use voice access to control your PC & author text with your voice.
Windows Speech Recognition lets you control your PC by voice alone, without needing a keyboard or mouse. This article lists commands that you can use with Speech Recognition.
For instructions on how to set up Speech Recognition for the first time, refer to Use voice recognition in Windows.
Notes:
-
Any time you need to find out what commands to use, say «What can I say?»
-
Speech Recognition is available only for the following languages: English (United States, United Kingdom, Canada, India, and Australia), French, German, Japanese, Mandarin (Chinese Simplified and Chinese Traditional), and Spanish.
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In the following tables, a bolded word or phrase means it’s an example. Replace it with similar words to get the result you want.
In this topic
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Common Speech Recognition commands
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Commands for dictation
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Commands for the keyboard
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Commands for punctuation marks and special characters
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Commands for Windows and apps
-
Commands for using the mouse
Common Speech Recognition commands
|
To do this |
Say this |
|---|---|
|
Open Start |
Start |
|
Open Cortana Note: |
Press Windows C |
|
Open Search |
Press Windows S |
|
Perform an action in an app |
Right-click; Press Windows Z; press ctrl B |
|
Select an item by its name |
File; Start; View |
|
Select an item or icon |
Click Recycle Bin; Click Computer; Click file name |
|
Double-click an item |
Double-click Recycle Bin; Double-click Computer; Double-click file name |
|
Switch to an open app |
Switch to Paint; Switch to WordPad; Switch to program name; Switch application |
|
Scroll in one direction |
Scroll up; Scroll down; Scroll left; Scroll right |
|
Insert a new paragraph or new line in a document |
New paragraph; New line |
|
Select a word in a document |
Select word |
|
Select a word and start to correct it |
Correct word |
|
Select and delete specific words |
Delete word |
|
Show a list of applicable commands |
What can I say? |
|
Update the list of speech commands that are currently available |
Refresh speech commands |
|
Turn on listening mode |
Start listening |
|
Turn off listening mode |
Stop listening |
|
Move the Speech Recognition microphone bar |
Move speech recognition |
|
Minimize the microphone bar |
Minimize speech recognition |
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Commands for dictation
|
To do this |
Say this |
|---|---|
|
Insert a new line in the document |
New line |
|
Insert a new paragraph in the document |
New paragraph |
|
Insert a tab |
Tab |
|
Insert the literal word (for example, insert the word «comma» instead of the punctuation mark) |
Literal word |
|
Insert the numeral form of a number (for examples, insert 3 instead of the word three) |
Numeral number |
|
Put the cursor before a specific word |
Go to word |
|
Put the cursor after a specific word |
Go after word |
|
Don’t insert a space before the next word |
No space |
|
Go to the start of the current sentence |
Go to start of sentence |
|
Go to the start of the current paragraph |
Go to start of paragraph |
|
Go to the start of the current document |
Go to start of document |
|
Go to the end of the current sentence |
Go to end of sentence |
|
Go to the end of the current paragraph |
Go to end of paragraph |
|
Go to the end of the current document |
Go to end of document |
|
Select a word in the current document |
Select word |
|
Select a word range in the current document |
Select word range; Select word through word |
|
Select all text in the current document |
Select all |
|
Select a number of words before the location of the cursor |
Select previous 20 words; Select previous 10 words |
|
Select a number of words after the location of the cursor |
Select next 20 words; Select next 10 words |
|
Select the last text you dictated |
Select that |
|
Clear the selection on the screen |
Clear selection |
|
Capitalize the first letter of a word |
Caps word |
|
Capitalize all the letters of a word |
All caps word |
|
Make all the letters in a word lowercase |
No caps word |
|
Change the next number of words to uppercase |
Change next 10 words to uppercase |
|
Change the next number of words to lowercase |
Change next 10 words to lowercase |
|
Delete the previous sentence |
Delete previous sentence |
|
Delete the next sentence |
Delete next sentence |
|
Delete the previous paragraph |
Delete previous paragraph |
|
Delete the next paragraph |
Delete next paragraph |
|
Delete the selected or last dictated text |
Delete that |
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Commands for the keyboard
|
To do this |
Say this |
|---|---|
|
Press a key or key combination |
Press keyboard key; press A; press capital B; press Shift plus A; press Ctrl plus A |
|
Press certain keyboard keys without saying «press» first |
Delete; Backspace; Enter; Page Up; Page Down; Home; End; Tab |
Notes:
-
You can also use the ICAONATO phonetic alphabet. For example, say «press alpha» to press A or «press bravo» to press B.
-
Speech Recognition commands for the keyboard works only with languages that use Latin alphabets.
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Commands for punctuation marks and special characters
|
To Insert this |
Say this |
|---|---|
|
, |
Comma |
|
; |
Semicolon |
|
. |
Period; Dot; Decimal point |
|
: |
Colon |
|
« |
Open double quote; Open quote |
|
« |
Close double quote; Close quote; Close inverted commas |
|
‘ |
Apostrophe |
|
‘ |
Open single quote |
|
‘ |
Close single quote |
|
> |
Greater than sign |
|
< |
Less than sign |
|
/ |
Forward slash |
|
\ |
Backslash |
|
~ |
Tilde |
|
@ |
At sign |
|
! |
Exclamation mark; Exclamation point |
|
? |
Question mark |
|
# |
Number sign; Pound sign |
|
$ |
Dollar sign |
|
% |
Percent sign |
|
^ |
Caret |
|
( |
Open parenthesis; Open paren |
|
) |
Close parenthesis; Close paren |
|
_ |
Underscore |
|
— |
Hyphen; Minus sign; Dash |
|
— |
En dash |
|
— |
Em dash |
|
= |
Equal sign |
|
+ |
Plus sign |
|
{ |
Open brace; Open curly bracket |
|
} |
Close brace; Close curly bracket |
|
[ |
Open bracket; Open square bracket |
|
] |
Close bracket; Close square bracket |
|
| |
Vertical bar |
|
|
Smiley face |
|
|
Frowny face |
|
|
Winky face |
|
™ |
Trademark sign |
|
¾ |
Three-quarter sign |
|
¼ |
One-quarter sign |
|
½ |
One-half sign |
|
£ |
Pound sterling sign |
|
& |
Ampersand; And sign |
|
* |
Asterisk |
|
// |
Double slash |
|
` |
Back quote |
|
< |
Open angle bracket |
|
> |
Close angle bracket |
|
± |
Plus or minus sign |
|
« |
Open angle quote |
|
» |
Close angle quote |
|
× |
Multiplication sign |
|
÷ |
Division sign |
|
¢ |
Cent sign |
|
¥ |
Yen sign |
|
§ |
Section sign |
|
© |
Copyright sign |
|
® |
Registered sign; Registered trademark sign |
|
° |
Degree sign |
|
¶ |
Paragraph sign |
|
… |
Ellipsis; Dot dot dot |
|
ƒ |
Function sign |
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Commands for Windows and apps
|
To do this |
Say this |
|---|---|
|
Select an item by its name |
File; Start; View |
|
Select an item or icon |
Click Recycle Bin; click Computer; click file name |
|
Double-click an item |
Double-click Computer; double-click Recycle Bin; double-click folder name |
|
Right-click an item |
Right-click Computer; right-click Recycle Bin; right-click folder name |
|
Minimize all windows to show your desktop |
Show desktop |
|
Select something if you don’t know what it’s called |
Show numbers (Numbers will appear on the screen for every item in the active window. Say an item’s corresponding number to select it.) |
|
Select a numbered item |
19 OK; 5 OK |
|
Double-click a numbered item |
Double-click 19; Double-click 5 |
|
Right-click a numbered item |
Right-click 19; Right-click 5 |
|
Open an app |
Open Paint; Open WordPad; Open app name |
|
Switch to an open app |
Switch to Paint; Switch to WordPad; Switch to app name; Switch application |
|
Close an app |
Close that; Close Paint; Close Documents |
|
Minimize |
Minimize that; Minimize Paint; Minimize Documents |
|
Maximize |
Maximize that; Maximize Paint; Maximize Documents |
|
Restore |
Restore that; Restore Paint; Restore Documents |
|
Cut |
Cut that; Cut |
|
Copy |
Copy that; Copy |
|
Paste |
Paste |
|
Delete |
Delete that; Delete |
|
Undo |
Undo that; Scratch that; Undo |
|
Scroll in one direction |
Scroll up; Scroll down; Scroll right; Scroll left |
|
Scroll an exact distance in pages |
Scroll down 2 pages; Scroll up 10 pages |
|
Scroll an exact distance in other units |
Scroll up 5; Scroll down 7 |
|
Go to a field in a form or app |
Go to field name; Go to Subject; Go to Address; Go to cc |
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Commands for using the mouse
|
To do this |
Say this |
|---|---|
|
Show the mousegrid |
Mousegrid |
|
Move the pointer to the center of a mousegrid square |
Number of the square; 1; 7; 9 |
|
Select a mousegrid square |
Click number of the square |
|
Select an item to drag with the mouse |
Number of the square where the item appears (followed by) mark; 3 mark; 7 mark; 9 mark |
|
Select an area in the mousegrid where you want to drag the item |
Number of the square where you want to drag the item (followed by) click; 4 click; 5 click; 6 click |
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See also
Use voice recognition in Windows
Discover Windows accessibility features
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Introduction to Windows Speech Recognition:
An advanced functionality of Windows is the Speech Recognition feature enabling users to solely rely on voice interactions when interacting with their computer. A keyboard or mouse is unnecessary. Whether you have Windows 11 or Windows 10, Using this robust tool can enhance the convenience and accessibility of your computing experience. Speaking particular commands enables you to control applications, browse the web, create documents, and perform miscellaneous tasks.
Setting up Speech Recognition in Windows:
In preparation for using Speech Recognition, you must establish its setup on your Windows PC. Here’s a step-by-step guide to get you started:
Launch the Start menu and access Settings. and Access the Settings option.
Click on “Ease of Access,” Then, opt for “Speech Recognition” in the left-hand menu.
Observe and comply with the guidelines provided on your screen for setting up your microphone and finish the initial voice calibration procedure.
After finishing the setup, you are fully prepared to employ Speech Recognition.
Basic Voice Commands for Windows 11 and Windows 10:
Let’s begin with some fundamental voice commands to perform common tasks:
For example, say “Open Microsoft Edge” to open the Edge browser.
“Start [Program Name]”: Initiates a program on your computer. As an illustration, verbalize “Start Word” to launch Microsoft Word.
In case you have Word running, “Turn off Word” will result in its closure.
“Minimize”: Reduces minimizing the active window to the taskbar.
“Maximize”: Amplifiess makes the current window occupy the whole screen.
“Restore”: Returns resizing a minimized window to its previous dimensions.
“Scroll Up/Down”: Scrolls the current window up or down, depending on your command.
“Click”: Performs a mouse click at the current cursor position.
Navigating Your PC with Speech Recognition:
Navigating through different elements on your computer is made easier with Speech Recognition, resulting in enhanced accessibility to files and programs. Try out these commands:
“Go to [Location]”: Moves you towards the indicated location. For example, saying “Go to Documents” will open your Documents folder.
If you have Word and Excel running, “Switch to Excel” will bring forward the Excel application.
“Scroll Left/Right”: Scrolls horizontally through the current window.
“Show Desktop”: Hides all open windows and displays the desktop.
“Open [Menu Name]”: Unveils a menu within the active application. You can say, “Open File menu” Accessing the File Menu requires completing a specific task.
“Go back”: Navigates back to the previous screen or page.
Executing System Operations with Voice Commands:
Control different system operations with ease by employing voice commands in Speech Recognition. Here are some useful examples:
“Open Settings”: Initiates the Windows Settings software to modify system configurations
“Search [Keyword]”: Launches a search for the designated keyword. For example, by stating “Find updates for Windows” will start a search for available updates.
“Open Control Panel”: Opens the Control Panel to manage system settings.
“Lock PC”: Locking your computer guarantees its security and protects against unauthorized access.
Advanced Speech Recognition Techniques:
Once you are comfortable with the basics, you can explore more advanced commands to enhance your productivity:
“Show Numbers”: Displays numbers on clickable items, allowing you to select an option by speaking its corresponding number.
To illustrate, if you mention “Type hello” will input “hello” wherever the cursor is placed.
“Dictate [Text]”: Commences speech recognition by opening a document specifically tailored for transcription, then proceeds to dictate according to the given content.
“Add a New [Document/Event]”: Creates a new document or event in supported applications.
“Format Text”: Applies formatting to text, such as applying various styles like bolding, putting in italics or using underlines.
Troubleshooting Speech Recognition Issues:
There are occasions when Speech Recognition might not operate as anticipated. Here are a few tips to troubleshoot common issues:
Check that your microphone is appropriately connected and operational. and operational.
Inspect the microphone configurations on your Windows system and alter them if required.
Follow the voice training wizard in Speech Recognition settings to retrain your voice.
Avoid background noise that could interfere with voice recognition accuracy.
Update your audio drivers to the newest release.
Conclusion:
A robust tool that can drastically enhance how you communicate with your computer. that can fundamentally change the way you interact and control functions on your computer. By becoming proficient in the diverse commands and techniques, one can greatly enhance their productivity. Furthermore, you have the option to experience a completely hands-free computing environment on either Windows 11 or Windows 10. Feel free to, test it out, to uncover the opportunities offered by voice-activated devices.
To set up speech recognition in Windows, follow these detailed steps to ensure a smooth experience. First, navigate to the Control Panel and select ‘Ease of Access’. From there, click on ‘Speech Recognition’. This will open the Speech Recognition options where you can start the setup process.
Configuring Your Microphone
Before you begin using speech recognition, it’s crucial to configure your microphone correctly. Follow these steps:
- Select ‘Set up microphone’: This option will guide you through the microphone setup process.
- Choose the type of microphone: Whether you are using a headset, desktop, or other types, select the appropriate option.
- Follow the prompts: Windows will guide you through testing your microphone to ensure it is working properly.
Training Your Computer to Understand You
Once your microphone is set up, the next step is to train your computer to recognize your voice. This is done through the ‘Train your computer to better understand you’ option. Here’s how:
- Select the training option: This will open a series of text passages that you will read aloud.
- Read the passages clearly: The more accurately you read, the better your computer will understand your speech patterns.
Using Speech Recognition Commands
After training, you can start using speech recognition commands for Windows. Here are some essential commands:
- Open applications: Say «Open [application name]» to launch programs.
- Control your computer: Use commands like «Scroll down» or «Click [button name]» to navigate.
- Dictate text: Simply speak to type in any text field.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
If you encounter issues, consider the following troubleshooting tips:
- Check microphone settings: Ensure your microphone is set as the default device in the sound settings.
- Adjust speech recognition settings: Revisit the Speech Recognition options to fine-tune your preferences.
- Consult the official documentation: For more detailed troubleshooting, refer to the Microsoft Speech Recognition documentation.
By following these steps, you can effectively set up and utilize speech recognition in Windows, enhancing your productivity and accessibility.
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Windows Speech Recognition lets you control your PC by voice alone, without needing a keyboard or mouse. Here are the voice commands you can use to control your PC with Speech Recognition.
Windows provides both a device-based speech recognition feature (available through the Windows Speech Recognition Desktop app), and a cloud-based speech recognition service in those markets and regions where Cortana is available. Speech Recognition is a nice addition to the dictation feature of Windows 10.
Speech Recognition is only available for the following languages: English (United States, United Kingdom, Canada, India, and Australia), French, German, Japanese, Mandarin (Chinese Simplified and Chinese Traditional), and Spanish.
| To do this | Say this |
|---|---|
| Open Start | Start |
| Open Cortana | Press Windows C |
| Open Search | Press Windows S |
| Perform an action in an app | Right-click; Press Windows Z; press ctrl B |
| Select an item by its name | File; Start; View |
| Select an item or icon | Click Recycle Bin; Click Computer; Click file name |
| Double-click an item | Double-click Recycle Bin; Double-click Computer; Double-click file name |
| Switch to an open app | Switch to Paint; Switch to WordPad; Switch to program name; Switch application |
| Scroll in one direction | Scroll up; Scroll down; Scroll left; Scroll right |
| Insert a new paragraph or new line in a document | New paragraph; New line |
| Select a word in a document | Select word |
| Select a word and start to correct it | Correct word |
| Select and delete specific words | Delete word |
| Show a list of applicable commands | What can I say? |
| Update the list of speech commands that are currently available | Refresh speech commands |
| Turn on listening mode | Start listening |
| Turn off listening mode | Stop listening |
| Move the Speech Recognition microphone bar | Move speech recognition |
| Minimize the microphone bar | Minimize speech recognition |
That’s it.
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Windows Speech Recognition is a remarkable feature embedded within the Windows operating system that allows users to control their computers through voice commands. This innovative technology is designed to enhance accessibility and improve user experience by enabling hands-free operation. Whether you are a busy professional, a student, or someone who simply prefers the convenience of voice interaction, understanding how to utilize Windows Speech Recognition can significantly streamline your computing tasks. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the intricacies of Windows Speech Recognition, exploring its capabilities, setup procedures, and practical applications.
What is Windows Speech Recognition?
Windows Speech Recognition is a built-in tool that allows users to dictate text and control their computer using voice commands. This technology utilizes advanced algorithms to convert spoken words into text, making it an invaluable resource for those who may have difficulty using a keyboard or mouse. With Windows Speech Recognition, users can navigate their operating system, open applications, dictate emails, and even browse the internet—all through simple voice commands.
How Does Windows Speech Recognition Work?
The functionality of Windows Speech Recognition is powered by sophisticated speech recognition algorithms. When a user speaks, the software analyzes the audio input, identifies patterns, and translates the spoken words into text or commands. This process involves several key components:
-
Microphone Input: A quality microphone is essential for accurate speech recognition. The microphone captures the user’s voice and transmits it to the computer for processing.
-
Speech Recognition Engine: The heart of the system, the speech recognition engine, processes the audio input. It uses machine learning techniques to improve accuracy over time by adapting to the user’s voice and speaking style.
-
Language Model: Windows Speech Recognition employs a language model that predicts the likelihood of word sequences. This helps the software understand context and improve the accuracy of dictation.
-
Command Recognition: In addition to dictating text, users can issue commands to control their computer. The software recognizes specific phrases associated with actions, such as «open,» «close,» or «scroll.»
Setting Up Windows Speech Recognition
Setting up Windows Speech Recognition is a straightforward process. Follow these steps to get started:
-
Check System Requirements: Ensure that your computer meets the necessary system requirements for Windows Speech Recognition. This feature is available on Windows 7 and later versions.
-
Access Speech Recognition Settings:
- Open the Control Panel.
- Click on Ease of Access.
- Select Speech Recognition.
-
Set Up Your Microphone:
- Choose the Set up microphone option.
- Follow the on-screen instructions to configure your microphone for optimal performance.
-
Start Speech Recognition:
- Click on the Start Speech Recognition option.
- A speech recognition bar will appear on your screen, indicating that the feature is active.
-
Train Your Computer to Understand You:
- For improved accuracy, consider using the Train your computer to better understand you option. This will guide you through a series of reading exercises to help the software adapt to your voice.
Practical Applications of Windows Speech Recognition
Windows Speech Recognition offers a wide array of practical applications that can enhance productivity and accessibility. Here are some common uses:
Dictating Text
One of the most powerful features of Windows Speech Recognition is its ability to dictate text. Users can compose emails, write documents, or create notes simply by speaking. This is particularly beneficial for individuals who may struggle with typing due to physical limitations or those who prefer a more efficient means of writing.
Navigating the Operating System
With Windows Speech Recognition, users can navigate their computer effortlessly. Commands like «open Word,» «close window,» and «scroll down» allow for seamless interaction with the operating system. This functionality is especially helpful for individuals with mobility challenges, as it reduces the reliance on traditional input devices.
Browsing the Internet
Voice commands can also be utilized for web browsing. Users can say phrases like «search for [topic]» or «go to [website]» to navigate the internet without using a mouse or keyboard. This hands-free browsing experience is ideal for multitasking or when users are unable to physically interact with their devices.
Accessibility Features
Windows Speech Recognition plays a vital role in making technology more accessible for individuals with disabilities. By providing an alternative means of interaction, this tool empowers users to engage with their devices on their terms. It is an essential feature for those who require adaptive technologies to enhance their daily computing tasks.
Tips for Maximizing the Effectiveness of Windows Speech Recognition
To ensure you get the most out of Windows Speech Recognition, consider the following tips:
-
Use a Quality Microphone: Investing in a high-quality microphone can significantly improve recognition accuracy. A good microphone will reduce background noise and capture your voice more clearly.
-
Speak Clearly and Naturally: When using voice commands, speak clearly and at a moderate pace. Avoid mumbling or speaking too quickly, as this can hinder the software’s ability to understand your commands.
-
Familiarize Yourself with Commands: Take the time to learn the various voice commands available in Windows Speech Recognition. Familiarizing yourself with these commands will enhance your efficiency and make navigation smoother.
-
Practice Regularly: The more you use Windows Speech Recognition, the better it will understand you. Regular practice will help the software adapt to your voice and improve its accuracy over time.
-
Adjust Settings as Needed: Don’t hesitate to revisit the settings to fine-tune the speech recognition experience. Adjusting microphone levels, training the software, and customizing commands can lead to better performance.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between Windows Speech Recognition and Cortana?
Windows Speech Recognition is primarily focused on allowing users to control their computers and dictate text through voice commands. In contrast, Cortana is a virtual assistant designed to perform tasks and provide information, leveraging voice recognition technology to answer questions and manage schedules.
Can Windows Speech Recognition be used in any language?
Windows Speech Recognition supports multiple languages, but the availability of languages may vary depending on the version of Windows you are using. Users can select their preferred language in the settings to enhance recognition accuracy.
Is Windows Speech Recognition suitable for all users?
Yes, Windows Speech Recognition is designed to be accessible for a wide range of users, including those with disabilities. It provides an alternative means of interaction for individuals who may have difficulty using traditional input devices.
How can I improve the accuracy of Windows Speech Recognition?
To improve accuracy, ensure you are using a quality microphone, speak clearly, and practice regularly. Additionally, training the software by reading specific texts can help it adapt to your voice and improve its performance.
What should I do if Windows Speech Recognition is not working properly?
If you encounter issues with Windows Speech Recognition, try the following troubleshooting steps:
- Check your microphone settings to ensure it is properly configured.
- Restart the Speech Recognition tool.
- Re-train the software to better understand your voice.
- Ensure your operating system is updated to the latest version.
Conclusion
Windows Speech Recognition is a powerful tool that transforms the way users interact with their computers. By harnessing the capabilities of voice commands, this feature enhances accessibility, improves productivity, and offers a hands-free computing experience. Whether you are dictating text, navigating your operating system, or browsing the internet, Windows Speech Recognition empowers users to accomplish tasks efficiently and effectively. By following the setup guidelines and practical tips outlined in this guide, you can unlock the full potential of this remarkable technology and enjoy a seamless voice-controlled computing experience. Explore the world of Windows Speech Recognition today and discover how it can revolutionize your interaction with technology!