How to Use Text to Speech on My Computer

Using the "Text to Speech" software on your Windows-based computer can be learned in a matter or minutes. The "Text to Speech" utility allows you to configure your computer so the machine recognizes the words you type on screen and converts them into a computerized voice audible through the speakers.

Click "Start" and select "Control Panels" from the menu. Under "Control Panels," select "Speech."

Select the voice you want the computer to use by selecting the "Voice Selection" drop-down menu on the "Text to Speech" tab. There as many as 12 voices available on most Windows-based computers. More voices are available to download for free at Microsoft.com.

Preview the voice you chose by selecting "Preview Voice" at the bottom of the screen. On screen, you will notice the text is highlighted when the voice reads as you type. If the voice sounds fine, click "OK." Open a word processing program, such as Microsoft Word, and begin to type. The program should provide an audio representation of what is being written on the screen.