Keyboard Shortcuts
TalkWriter uses keyboard shortcuts for fast access to its core features. Every shortcut is customizable so you can avoid conflicts with other apps and match your preferred workflow.
Accessing Shortcut Settings
- Open Settings (Cmd + ,)
- Navigate to the Keyboard Shortcuts section
Available Actions
| Action | Default Shortcut | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Push-to-Talk | Right Option key (hold) | Hold to dictate, release to stop |
| Toggle Dictation | Cmd + Shift + D | Start/stop dictation as a toggle |
| Open Scratchpad | Cmd + Shift + S | Open the Scratchpad window |
| Open Settings | Cmd + , | Open the Settings panel |
| New Session | Cmd + Shift + N | Start a new Scratchpad session |
Changing a Shortcut
- Find the action in the shortcuts list
- Click the current key combination displayed next to it
- Press your desired new key combination
- The shortcut updates immediately
If your chosen combination conflicts with another TalkWriter shortcut or a common system shortcut, a warning appears. You can proceed or choose a different combination.
Push-to-Talk Configuration
The Push-to-Talk key is the most important shortcut. It controls when TalkWriter listens.
How it works:
- Hold the key to dictate
- Release the key to stop
Choosing a Good Push-to-Talk Key
The ideal key is:
- Easy to reach without looking
- Not used by other applications
- Comfortable to hold for extended dictations
The Right Option key is the default because it is rarely used by other apps and is easy to hold with your right thumb. Good alternatives include the Right Control key or a function key (F13-F19).
Using a Foot Pedal
If you use a USB foot pedal, map it to a key combination in its driver software, then assign that combination as your Push-to-Talk shortcut in TalkWriter.
Modifier Keys
| Modifier | Symbol |
|---|---|
| Command | Cmd |
| Option | Opt |
| Control | Ctrl |
| Shift | Shift |
You can combine up to three modifiers with a regular key (e.g., Cmd + Shift + Opt + D).
Global Shortcuts
All TalkWriter shortcuts are global — they work regardless of which application is in the foreground. You can start dictating from any app without switching to TalkWriter first.
Resetting Shortcuts
- Reset all: Go to Settings > Keyboard Shortcuts and click Reset to Defaults
- Reset one: Click the reset icon next to an individual shortcut
FAQ
Can I disable a shortcut without assigning a new one? Yes. Click the shortcut binding and press Escape to clear it.
Do shortcuts work when TalkWriter is in the background? Yes. All shortcuts are global and work as long as TalkWriter is running.
Can I use mouse buttons as shortcuts? TalkWriter shortcuts are keyboard-only. Use a third-party tool to map mouse buttons to key combinations, then assign those in TalkWriter.
Why does my shortcut not work in a specific app? Some apps intercept key combinations before they reach TalkWriter. Try a different combination or check the other app's shortcut settings.