This is the forth and final blog post in a series on utilizing dictation in the writing process.
The first post addressed the benefits of dictation and the second focused on helpful guidelines for the dictation process. The third revealed my 7 simple steps to dictation. This last post is on the specific tools I use for dictation.
Tools for dictation range from the expensive to the inexpensive. I go with the inexpensive tools as long as they provide the results I need. The following five tools are the tools I recommend for dictation.
- An audio recorder
This records your voice in a format that transcription software can transcribe. You can also use your smart phone to do this. I sometimes use my iPhone along with an inexpensive condenser microphone. I also use 2 inexpensive audio recorders I store in two accessible locations in case an idea hits me out of the blue. The first one I use is a Sony 4GB PX Series MP3 Digital Voice Recorder I purchased years ago. The other one is an Aiworth 16GB Digital Voice Activated Recorder that I bought this past year. Both have served me well and both plug into my MacBook Pro so I can transfer the digital file to my computer. - A microphone
When I researched dictation, many writers said they spent hundreds of dollars to get the perfect microphone. However, I found two inexpensive yet excellent microphones. Both mics capture clear audio, which leads to accurate transcription. I have one microphone for my iPhone, which is a generic Lavalier Lapel Omnidirectional Microphone. The other microphone plugs into my digital voice recorders and is a Maono Lavalier Omnidirectional Microphone. Both cost less than $25. - A computer.
Your computer is where you import your digital audio file and run it through your transcription software. I use a MacBook Pro as my main computer. However, transcription is just as easy on a Windows machine. - Dictation software
There are many dictation apps and services. When I first began dictating, I used Dragon Dictate on my Mac. A few years back Dragon discontinued the Mac version of their software, which forced me to look elsewhere. Currently I use an inexpensive app called Ada Dictation, which you can download from the Apple App Store. It lists at $15 and does an excellent job transcribing my words. It’s not perfect, but it’s pretty close. - Writing software
Your writing software is the final landing place for your dictated writing. I use Scrivener as I love its versatility. However, there are many excellent writing programs out there for both Macs and PCs. The bottom line is to have a place to put your dictated words so you can edit them and eventually launch them out into the world.
I’m always on the lookout for new tools that can further enhance my writing process. Respond in the comment section and let me know about any other tools which help you in the dictation process.
