This hack helps me maintain word counts while I run errands. As a published author, writing a certain amount of words each month to maintain deadlines is important to my career and this dictation app has been a lifesaver.
Disclaimer: Drive responsibly. I will explain in this blog article how I write using an app on my phone without touching my phone while driving. I am not responsible for any damage to your car or person if you drive irresponsibly.
And if you are here from TikTok or Instagram - Hi! Learn more about my fiction series, the Fated Tales Series, part of these books were dictated with this technique.
How to Dictate Your Book Using Your Phone
Step 1: Download the Dictation app from the app store and create your account. There is a free trial and I am on the yearly plan.
Step 2: Plug in your phone to your car and click the start button before you start button before. you start driving. I recommend using this app for 30 minute drives or less. After 30 minutes, my phone usually starts to feel warm.
Step 3: Write your book with your voice! Click the help button on the app to see available commands. You can skip lines, create quotes, anything you'd normally do!
Step 4: Turn off the app when you get to your destination. Don't touch your phone while driving.
Step 5: Copy and paste the words into your writing app when you get to your destination. I use Scrivener or Novlr.org on my phone. If you have neither, you can email the words to yourself to edit on your computer.
Step 6: Edit your words on your writing software.
Q&A:
"Do you need to hold your phone to your lips?" No! If your phone is plugged in, the app will use your car speakers. Leave your phone in your cup holder.
"How many words can you do in half an hour?" Anywhere from 500 to 1,000. Speaking is faster than writing and by using dictation you aren't second-guessing your words as often as when you type.
If you have any questions, let me know and I'll add it to the Q&A.
You are unstoppable, Rebecca
First Photo: Vehicle in Traffic