# Dictation app

## Simplify AI Dictation Feature Documentation

### Overview

The Dictation feature in Simplify AI converts your speech to text and types it directly into any text field or document. This powerful tool helps streamline documentation by allowing you to speak naturally while Simplify handles the typing.

### Using Dictation

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#### Starting and Stopping Recording

There are two ways to control the dictation feature:

1. **Using the interface buttons:**
   * Click the "Start Recording" button to begin dictation
   * Click the "Stop Recording" button when you're finished speaking
2. **Using keyboard shortcuts:**
   * Press **F9** to start recording
   * Press **F10** to stop recording

When recording is active, you'll see a pulsing indicator and a timer showing the duration of your current recording session.

#### Typing Mechanism

For the dictation feature to work properly:

* You must click in a text field or document **before** starting the recording
* Simplify transcribes your speech and types the text wherever your cursor is located
* The text will appear in the field after you stop recording and the transcription is processed
* You can view the transcript in the app by clicking "View Transcript" during recording

### Phrase Linkages

The Phrase Linkage feature allows you to create custom text replacements that are automatically applied to your dictated text.

#### How Phrase Linkages Work

1. When you say a specific phrase, Simplify will replace it with your predefined text
2. For example, saying "period" can insert a period (.) instead of the word "period"
3. Custom phrases can be used for frequently used text, formatting commands, or specialized terminology

#### Managing Phrase Linkages

* Click the chain link icon in the top right to access Phrase Linkages
* Use "Add New Phrase" to create custom replacements:
  * "If you say this" - the spoken phrase to be detected
  * "Simplify will type this" - the text that will replace the spoken phrase
* Each phrase can be enabled/disabled, edited, or deleted
* Phrase linkages are saved and will be available in future sessions

#### Default Phrase Linkages

Simplify comes with several default phrase linkages:

* "period" → "."
* "comma" → ","
* "next line" → \[new line]
* "thank you for your time" → "I appreciate your time and consideration."
* "best regards" → "Best regards,\n\[Your Name]"

### IMPORTANT DISCLAIMER

**While Simplify aims for accurate transcription, our technology has limitations. Medical terminology, specialized vocabulary, and accents may occasionally be misinterpreted. Users must verify all transcribed content before use, especially in healthcare settings. Simplify should be used as an assistive tool rather than the sole record of important communications.**

### Limitations and Considerations

#### Transcription Accuracy

* Accuracy may vary based on:
  * Speaking clarity and speed
  * Background noise
  * Microphone quality
  * Technical vocabulary and proper names
  * Accents and speech patterns

#### Technical Requirements

* A working microphone is required
* Simplify needs microphone permission on your device
* For best results, use a dedicated microphone or headset
* Your cursor must be active in a text field for typing to work

#### Privacy Considerations

* All speech processing occurs locally on your device
* Avoid dictating sensitive or personal information in public settings
* Review transcriptions before saving or sending them

### Best Practices

1. **For optimal accuracy:**
   * Speak clearly at a moderate pace
   * Minimize background noise
   * Use a quality microphone positioned close to your mouth
   * Explicitly mention punctuation ("period", "comma", etc.)
2. **For efficient dictation:**
   * Create phrase linkages for frequently used terms or phrases
   * Use the transcript view to verify content before it's typed
   * Position your cursor in the correct field before starting
   * Practice with common medical or technical terms to improve recognition
3. **When reviewing content:**
   * Always proofread dictated content before finalizing
   * Pay special attention to numbers, proper names, and technical terms
   * Use the transcript history in the app to verify what was dictated

### Keyboard Shortcuts Summary

* **F9**: Start recording
* **F10**: Stop recording

**REMINDER: THE DICTATION FEATURE PROVIDES AN ESTIMATION ONLY. USERS MUST VERIFY ALL TRANSCRIBED CONTENT BEFORE USE IN ANY CLINICAL OR PROFESSIONAL CONTEXT.**


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