Narrator (Windows)

Windows comes with a basic screen reader called Narrator, which reads text on the screen aloud and describes some events (such as an error message appearing) that happen while you're using the computer.

Note: Narrator is not available in all languages, so if the steps below don't work, Narrator is not available for your language.

Begin using Narrator

1. In the search box, type Narrator and click the Narrator app in the results.

2. The application will automatically start reading what appears on your screen. To stop Narrator from reading, press Ctrl. To exit Narrator, press Windows key + Ctrl + Enter.

Choose which text Narrator reads

Narrator will read anything you want it to, and it can also give you information like the date and the time. For a list of basic command prompts, visit Windows' Chapter 2: Narrator Basics.

Change Narrator's voice

1. Click on the Start button, then the Settings gear. Click Ease of Access settings and find Narrator on the left-hand menu. (Alternatively, press Ctrl + Windows key + N.)
2. Scroll down to personalize Narrator's voice. Here you can choose which voice you would like to read to you, as well as the volume, speed and pitch of the voice.

Turn off Narrator

Having practiced with this Windows program, Narrator is definitely not for everyone. If you would like to turn Narrator off permanently, follow these instructions:

1. Click on the Start button, then the Settings gear. Click Ease of Access settings and find Narrator on the left-hand menu. (Alternatively, press Ctrl + Windows key + N.)
2. Under Use Narrator, toggle the button to "Off".