How to use dictation in macOS 11 Big Sur

In this article

How to enable dictation
Using dictation to enter text with your voice (speech-to-text)

How to enable dictation

1. Select the Apple icon  in the top left corner of the screen..
2. Select System Preferences from the menu.
   
3. On the System Preferences window, select Keyboard.
   
4. On the Keyboard screen, select the Dictation tab.
   
5. Select the On radio button next to Dictation.
   

Using dictation to enter text with your voice (speech-to-text)

1. In a document or any area where you can type text (such as an email or a search box), place the cursor where you would like dictated text to appear.
2. Press the Fn (Function) key on your keyboard twice. A microphone icon will appear on the screen to show that your computer is listening.
   
3. You can now start dictating. Text will appear on-screen as you speak.
   
4. You can enter punctuation by saying the name of the punctuation you wish to use e.g. “Full stop” to enter ‘.’ or “Question mark” to enter ‘?’.You can find a full list of punctuation commands on Apple’s dictation support page: https://support.apple.com/en-gb/guide/mac-help/mh40695/mac
5. To stop dictation, press the Fn key again or click the Done button underneath the microphone icon.

Note: If this does not work it could be because someone else manages your computer settings (an IT department or administrator). If this is the case, you will need to contact them to access these settings or for further help.