Switching Dictation Modes
TalkWriter supports two dictation modes: Push-to-Talk (PTT) and Live. You can switch between them at any time through Settings.
How to Switch Modes
Step 1: Open Settings
Press Cmd + , or click the gear icon in the TalkWriter sidebar to open Settings.
Step 2: Go to Dictation Settings
Click the Dictation section in the Settings panel.
Step 3: Select Your Mode
Choose one of the two options:
| Option | Description |
|---|---|
| Push-to-Talk | Hold Fn to record, release to stop. Best for short dictations. |
| Live | Press Fn once to start, press again to stop. Best for long dictations. |
Step 4: Close Settings
Close the Settings window. Your new mode is active immediately — no restart needed.
Quick Comparison
| PTT | Live | |
|---|---|---|
| Fn key behavior | Hold to talk | Toggle on/off |
| Good for | Short bursts, emails | Long-form, notes |
| Hands-free | No (must hold Fn) | Yes (after initial press) |
For a detailed comparison, see Live vs Push-to-Talk.
Tips for Choosing
- Start with PTT if you are new to voice dictation. It gives you the most control.
- Switch to Live when you find yourself holding Fn for more than 15-20 seconds at a time.
- Switch back to PTT if you notice TalkWriter recording when you do not intend it to (common in noisy environments).
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to restart TalkWriter after switching modes? No. The change takes effect immediately.
Does switching modes affect my word count or history? No. Your word count, dictation history, and all other settings remain unchanged.
Can I assign different modes to different apps? No. The dictation mode is a global setting that applies across all applications.
Was this helpful? Let us know at support@talkwriter.ai