Keyboard Shortcuts
TalkWriter is designed to keep your hands on the keyboard. This page lists every shortcut you need to dictate, navigate, and control the app.
Dictation Shortcuts
These are the shortcuts you will use most often:
| Shortcut | Action | Mode |
|---|---|---|
| Hold Fn | Start dictating (hold to talk, release to stop) | Push-to-Talk |
| Press Fn | Toggle dictation on/off | Live Mode |
| Esc | Cancel current dictation without pasting | Both |
In Push-to-Talk mode, you hold Fn while speaking and release it when done. In Live mode, you press Fn once to start and press it again to stop. The behavior depends on which mode you have selected in Settings.
App Navigation
| Shortcut | Action |
|---|---|
| Cmd + , | Open Settings |
| Cmd + Q | Quit TalkWriter |
| Cmd + W | Close current window |
| Cmd + M | Minimize window |
| Cmd + H | Hide TalkWriter |
Text Editing (Scratchpad)
When using the built-in Scratchpad, standard macOS text shortcuts apply:
| Shortcut | Action |
|---|---|
| Cmd + Z | Undo |
| Cmd + Shift + Z | Redo |
| Cmd + A | Select all text |
| Cmd + C | Copy selected text |
| Cmd + V | Paste from clipboard |
| Cmd + X | Cut selected text |
Quick Reference Card
Here is a condensed reference you can keep handy:
| Category | Shortcut | What It Does |
|---|---|---|
| Dictate | Fn (hold or toggle) | Start/stop voice dictation |
| Cancel | Esc | Cancel dictation in progress |
| Settings | Cmd + , | Open Settings window |
| Undo | Cmd + Z | Undo last pasted text |
| Quit | Cmd + Q | Quit TalkWriter |
Tips for Keyboard-Driven Workflow
- Dictate into any app — Click into the app where you want text, then press Fn. No need to switch to TalkWriter first.
- Undo instantly — If TalkWriter pastes text you do not want, press Cmd + Z immediately to undo.
- Cancel mid-dictation — If you start speaking and change your mind, press Esc before releasing Fn to cancel without pasting.
- Quick settings access — Press Cmd + , from any TalkWriter window to jump straight to Settings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I change the dictation shortcut from Fn to something else? The Fn key is the default and recommended trigger. Check Settings for available customization options.
Does the Fn key conflict with macOS system shortcuts? TalkWriter intercepts the Fn key specifically for dictation. If you use Fn for emoji input or other macOS features, you may need to adjust your macOS keyboard settings under System Settings > Keyboard.
Can I use TalkWriter shortcuts while other apps are in the foreground? Yes. The Fn key works globally across all apps. You do not need TalkWriter to be the active window.
Was this helpful? Let us know at support@talkwriter.ai