> For AI agents: the complete documentation index is at [llms.txt](https://saydart.com/llms.txt). A concatenated dump of public pages is at [llms-full.txt](https://saydart.com/llms-full.txt). Markdown versions of pages are available at the same path with a `.md` extension (for example `https://saydart.com/workflows/excel.md`).

Source: https://saydart.com/workflows/writers/

# Dictation software for writers who draft out loud

Some writers think faster than they type; others want a break from the keyboard. Dictation gets a rough draft onto the page so you can spend your keyboard time editing.

Reviewed October 27, 2026

## What writers should look for

- Works in your writing app. Word, Google Docs, a notes app, or almost any other text field — the tool should type where your cursor is.
- Handles names. Characters, places and jargon need a custom dictionary.
- Clean output, or your exact words. Some drafts benefit from filler words removed; others need every word kept.
- Recovery. If text fails to land, you should not lose a paragraph.
- Platform. Does it run on the computer you write on? SayDart is for Windows and Mac (beta).

## Your options

- Built in: Windows voice typing (Win+H) and Apple Dictation are free and good for short bursts.
- Google Docs voice typing: free, Docs only, with voice formatting commands in English.
- Desktop dictation apps such as SayDart, for one shortcut in every writing app.

## A first-draft workflow with SayDart

1. Add your names first. Put character names, places and invented words into Dictionary. Import a CSV if you have a list.
2. Pick a style. Choose Original to keep every word for fiction voice, or Casual / Formal for cleaner nonfiction.
3. Talk a scene or section. Click into your manuscript, press the shortcut (Right Alt on Windows / Right Option on Mac), speak, then press it again.
4. Save repeated text as Snippets — a recurring scene header or sign-off.
5. Lost a paragraph? It is in History on your computer; copy and paste it.
6. Edit on the keyboard. Dictation drafts; you revise.

## Good to know

- SayDart types text; format headings and chapters in your writing app.
- Recognition runs in the cloud; you need an internet connection.
- Free to start with a modest weekly limit; Pro for unlimited use.

## Pricing

SayDart is free to start. Pro is unlimited for $12/month, billed yearly ($144), or $15 month to month. Prices exclude tax.

## Talk, don't type.

Open your manuscript, press Right Alt (Right Option on Mac) and draft the next scene by voice. SayDart is free to start.

## Related

- [Word voice to text](https://saydart.com/workflows/word/)
- [Google Docs voice to text](https://saydart.com/workflows/google-docs/)
- [Dictionary](https://saydart.com/product/dictionary/)
- [Smart cleanup](https://saydart.com/product/smart-cleanup/)
- [History](https://saydart.com/product/history/)
- [SayDart pricing](https://saydart.com/pricing/)
- [Download SayDart](https://saydart.com/download/)
- [Dictation software for lawyers](https://saydart.com/workflows/lawyers/)
- [Speech to text for students](https://saydart.com/workflows/students/)
- [Draft by voice with speech to text for dyslexia](https://saydart.com/workflows/dyslexia/)

## FAQ

### Does SayDart work in Scrivener?

SayDart types at the cursor in almost any app or text field; try it on the Free plan to confirm with your setup.

### Can I dictate in another language and get English?

Yes — voice translation supports many spoken languages and hundreds of written targets. Review the result before you keep it.

### Will it keep my exact words?

Choose the Original style to keep every word. Other styles clean filler and tidy punctuation.

### Is dictation software for writers free with SayDart?

SayDart is free to start. Pro is unlimited for $12/month, billed yearly ($144), or $15 month to month. Prices exclude tax.