Speech synthesis for Word 2007 and 2010

Post date: Jun 4, 2011 9:41:27 PM

Enable speech synthesis with Word for Windows

You can use Windows Visual Basic for Applications to enable text to speech in Microsoft Word 2007 or 2010. Windows uses an English voice by default. To enable Speech synthesis in other languages, you need to download and install additional voices. Espeak is a free and open source speech synthesizer that you can use to experiment with different languages without cost.

How to

• • First, enable the Developer tab in the ribbon.

  • Next, open the Visual Basic editor. Choose File - Import File... and select the basic script that you want to import.

  • You can preview or edit the code in the basic editor window.

  • When you are satisfied with your editing, use CTRL+S to save your changes.

  • Go back to the Word window.

  • Choose the command to Customize the Quick Access Toolbar.

  • Choose Macros.

  • Select the macro you imported, then click the Add button.

  • Click Modify.

  • Choose an icon, and then enter a display name.

  • Click OK.

  • Click OK again.

Alternatives

Microsoft Office 2010 has a built-in speech command that is not visible by default. For more information about speech synthesis in OneNote, Outlook, PowerPoint and Word see Using the Speak text-to-speech feature.

WorldTalk was developed by Rod Macaulay of TASSC in Aberdeen, Scotland. Depending on the version of Windows you have and the version of Microsoft Word, you may be able to this no-cost text to speech plug-in (extension) for Microsoft Word for Windows. Wordtalk adds new menu items and buttons for text to speech. When reading, the plug-in highlights the words as the computer speaks. The plug-in can use speech synthesis with Word's spell checker. Find out more...