Frequently asked questions
Key questions, clear answers.
Review the service model, target WPM, file processing and browser voice limits before starting.
Product basics
Core service and scope.
The player turns supplied text into a controlled listening and writing exercise.
What is DictationFlow?
It is a free browser based dictation practice desk. You supply a passage, choose a target pace and listen while you write in shorthand, type or write by hand.
Is it speech recognition?
No. It does the reverse part of the exercise: supplied text is spoken, then a human writes what they hear. It does not record speech or automatically create notes.
Do I need an account or subscription?
No. The current web tool is free, has no advertising and does not require an account.
Can I use Pitman, Gregg or Teeline shorthand?
Yes. The player is notation neutral because it supplies spoken text rather than teaching outlines. Follow the theory and conventions required by your course.
Can I use it for an examination?
You can use it for independent practice, but it is not an official or certified test. Check the current official notice for speed, duration, language and transcription rules.
Pace and voices
Pace and voice performance can vary.
DictationFlow schedules a target cadence; the device supplies the audible voice.
Is the displayed WPM exact?
It is a target cadence, not a certified timing measurement. Browser voices differ in pronunciation, latency and supported speech rate. Keep one device and voice when comparing repeated sessions.
Which WPM should I start with?
Start where you can finish a short take with controlled form or accuracy. Broad examples are 15 to 40 WPM for handwriting and new outlines, 40 to 80 for developing typing or shorthand, and 80 to 150 for experienced stenography practice. These are suggestions, not standards.
Why is a voice missing?
The list comes from the browser and operating system. A voice may need to be installed in system settings, may not be exposed by that browser, or may depend on network access.
Which languages work?
Language coverage depends on voices available on the device. Test pronunciation with Preview before a session. The interface and included samples are currently English.
Files, saving and privacy
Data and files are handled by defined components.
Practice text is not sent to a DictationFlow application server, but supporting services still exist.
Which files can I import?
The practice desk accepts supported plain text or Markdown files, text based PDFs, and common image formats shown by the file chooser. Scanned PDFs may not contain extractable text. Current image OCR recognises English and works best with clear, straight, high contrast text.
Does my passage leave the device?
DictationFlow does not upload it to its own server. The browser or operating system may process speech through a local or network voice. PDF/OCR support code and language data can be downloaded from external content networks. Read the privacy notice for the complete distinction.
What does “Remember this session” save?
When enabled, the browser can store the passage, position, target WPM, voice and related settings on that device. Use Clear or browser site data controls to remove it.
Does feedback stay local too?
No. Feedback is deliberately submitted through FormSubmit and delivered to the maintainer. The form explains this before you send it.
Devices and troubleshooting
Use a structured troubleshooting sequence.
Browser speech support is less uniform than ordinary audio playback.
Does DictationFlow work on a phone?
It is designed for modern mobile browsers with speech synthesis. A phone is especially useful beside a handwriting notebook; a larger screen is usually more comfortable for typing. Some phones pause speech when the screen locks or the browser is backgrounded.
Why did playback pause or stop?
Keep the page active, try a different installed voice, and test a short sample. Power saving settings, background tab rules and browser speech bugs can interrupt synthesis.
Why did OCR produce mistakes?
OCR is an estimate. Crooked pages, handwriting, tables, low contrast and decorative layouts reduce accuracy. Always review extracted text before starting playback.
How can I report a problem accessibly?
Use the feedback page and include the page, action, device, browser and assistive technology if relevant. Do not include private practice text.
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