C H A P T E R 1 2
Speaking and Dictating
Dragon NaturallySpeaking User’s Guide
148
Dictation tips
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Speak in complete sentences or complete phrases. Think of what
you’re going to say before you say it. Composing a sentence in your
head before saying it will help you maintain your train of thought.
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For complex writing, outlining is key. For a detailed letter, write or
dictate a few words summarizing the main point and subpoints of
each paragraph. When you’re dictating, look at the outline. You’ll be
able to expand the outline to complete sentences as you speak.
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When you’re writing a first draft, capture your ideas as quickly as
you can get them on the screen. Don’t try to edit as you go—you can
come back and edit later. Tell yourself to keep talking.
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If you need extra motivation to get over dictation hesitancy, think of
all you have to gain from writing aloud. Imagine doubling your
output. Imagine filling the screen with text without having to type.
Relax your hands, arms, and shoulders, and think about how nice it
is not to have to bang away at the keyboard.
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As in any writing, keep your audience in mind. To help the dictation
flow, think about the particular person for whom you are writing.
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When composing aloud, your writing style may change. Some
people find that their spoken style is less polished and more
conversational. It may be easy and rapid for you to dictate first
drafts, then go back and revise later. You might be pleased with your
new spoken style, teach yourself how to compose aloud in your
“old” style, or use a combination of dictating and revising to get the
results you want. Use whatever methods work best for you.
