Convert Text to Speech: Mac Shortcut Creates Audio Files

Have you ever wanted to convert written text into an audio file? Maybe you’re a language learner and want to practice listening to native speakers or maybe you just prefer listening to articles rather than reading them. Whatever the reason, Mac users now have an easy way to turn text into speech files with just a simple keyboard shortcut.

The Power of Mac Shortcuts

Mac shortcuts are one of the many features that make Apple devices so user-friendly and efficient. These shortcuts can save you time and effort by automating tasks that would otherwise require multiple steps. And when it comes to converting text to speech, Mac has a shortcut that’s perfect for the job.

The Text to Speech Shortcut

On your Mac, you can create a custom keyboard shortcut that will instantly convert any selected text into an audio file. Here’s how to set it up:

1. Open the „System Preferences“ on your Mac.
2. Click on „Keyboard,“ then select the „Shortcuts“ tab.
3. In the left sidebar, choose „App Shortcuts.“
4. Click on the „+“ button to add a new shortcut.
5. In the „Menu Title“ field, type „Start Speaking“ (without the quotes).
6. Select a keyboard shortcut of your choice. For example, you can use „Option + S“.
7. Click „Add“ to save your new shortcut.

Now, whenever you have selected text on your Mac, you can press the designated shortcut („Option + S“ in our example) to convert it into an audio file. The Mac will automatically start reading the text and save the audio file in your chosen destination folder.

Personalize the Voice

Mac also gives you the option to personalize the voice that reads the text. You can choose from a selection of voices with different accents and languages. Here’s how to change the voice:

1. Go to „System Preferences“ and click on „Accessibility.“
2. From the sidebar, select „Speech.“
3. Under the „System Voice“ dropdown menu, choose your preferred voice.
4. You can also adjust the speaking rate and volume to your liking.

With these easy steps, you can have your Mac read any written text in a voice that suits your preference.

Benefits of Text to Speech

Converting text into speech files offers several benefits. Here’s why you might want to start using this handy Mac shortcut:

Improved language learning

Listening to native speakers can greatly improve your language skills. By converting written text into audio files, you can practice listening comprehension and pronunciation at your own pace.

Accessibility

Text to speech is a useful tool for users with visual impairments or learning disabilities. It allows them to access written content in a more accessible format, making information more inclusive and readily available.

Efficient multitasking

Converting text to speech enables you to consume content hands-free, allowing you to multitask. Whether you’re cooking, exercising, or commuting, you can listen to articles, books, or documents without the need to read them.

Faster proofreading

When proofreading your own writing, it can be helpful to listen to the text instead of reading it. This change in perspective can highlight errors that you might have missed while reading silently.

Summary

Mac users can take advantage of the built-in text to speech shortcut to convert written text into audio files effortlessly. By setting up a custom keyboard shortcut, you can easily generate voice recordings of selected text. This feature offers various benefits such as improved language learning, increased accessibility, efficient multitasking, and faster proofreading. So why not give it a try and let your Mac do the talking!

source: https://www.ifun.de/text-in-sprache-wandeln-mac-kurzbefehl-erstellt-hoerdateien-220356/