Help Center
Better results
Get the best dictation accuracy
Improve recognition and cleanup with the right language, microphone, and custom dictionary.
macOSUpdated July 25, 2026
Start with recognition
- Select the exact single language or regional variant when you are speaking one language.
- Choose Multilingual only for code-switching among its supported languages.
- Use the microphone closest to you and reduce background audio where practical.
- Speak in complete phrases at a natural pace.
Add names and specialist terms
- 1Open Mach and choose Dictation Settings.
- 2Open Dictionary.
- 3Add the exact spelling of names, products, abbreviations, or technical terms you use.
- 4Use Refined mode so Mach can apply those spellings during cleanup.
A dictionary term guides final spelling; it does not retrain the speech-recognition model.
Match the output to the job
- Use Raw when you need a close transcript and want no AI cleanup.
- Use Refined when you want filler removal, punctuation, formatting, and app-aware presentation.
- Leave Tone on Auto for app-aware writing, or choose Casual, Professional, or Neutral.
Correct repeat mistakes
If the same word is repeatedly wrong, add it to the dictionary. If the whole transcript appears in the wrong language, switch from Multilingual to the exact single language and try again.