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Jeannie Ewing's avatar

Interesting, Russell and Sarah, since I spontaneously dictated an essay draft within the last seven days, then uploaded it to a transcription app and had the written version in a flash. I didn't even know dictating books was a real thing until I read this. Thank you both!

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Sarah Elisabeth Sawyer's avatar

Love that this was confirmation for you, Jennie! I think you would enjoy the bootcamp if you decide to register, you'll meet lots of authors just discovering the skill of dictating their fiction.

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Reda Rountree (she/her)'s avatar

This came at the exact right time for me, Russell! I’ve been having such a difficult time concentrating because of Long Covid, and I just started using voice to text. It comes out convoluted but at least it’s getting on the page faster. Really beginning to think this is the only way to finish my book.

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Sarah Elisabeth Sawyer's avatar

All of this, Reda! So many are moving to dictation as a way to continue their writing careers. And it will get better with practice. Hope to see you in the bootcamp!

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Jennifer Jensen's avatar

I type fast, but I"ve thought about dictating just to get my butt out of the chair. I dictate notes and texts all the time, to the point that when I leave a voice mail, I end up punctuating it! But things flow out of my fingers in different ways that I can think them, so I"ve been afraid of doing it. When in October is it?

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Sarah Elisabeth Sawyer's avatar

Yes, being healthier is a huge part of dictation, Jennifer! Love that you are thinking that way. And yes, it takes training to get the words of fiction flowing from your mouth instead of your fingertips. That's a huge part of what we focus on with the bootcamp! Hope you can join in. It kicks off October 14 and is less than a 1 hour commitment per day.

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Christopher Downing's avatar

Awesome post, you two. I know Sarah's bootcamp will be outstanding!

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Sarah Elisabeth Sawyer's avatar

Thanks, Christopher, that means so much!

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R. Janet Walraven, M. Ed.'s avatar

Hi, Russell--I appreciate your comments; dictation will help a lot of writers. However, I type/keyboard 125 wpm. My brain goes directly to my hands; it's a wonder sometime how it flows. My subconscious seems to take over. I am very happy with writing my books via keyboard. I'll forward your dictation info to others who need it. Best wishes! Janet

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Sarah Elisabeth Sawyer's avatar

I hear you on this, too, Janet! One thing to think about beyond speed is long-term sustainability. Dictation allows you to write without the wear and tear on your body. Most authors I know are coming to dictation for the health benefits rather than strictly speed.

Thanks for passing this on to others!

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