Two settings & a bonus feature to make your Mac more friendly

Sent in by Chris, he has a few settings that can a Mac more dyslexic friendly.

To get white on black text in apps and menus https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT208976

The get your mac to read back any on screen text that is selectable set up this short cut key:
System preferences -> Keyboard -> Shortcuts -> App Shortc…
click “+” (below the list on the right)
Application = “All Applications”
Menu Title= “Start Speaking”
Keyboard Shortcut =
click “add”

Select any text on screen then press the key combination you set up.
Warning, this only works on native MacOS application and if you press the buttons, having not selected text it will read the whole document and won’t stop!

Bonus feature, want to dictate to you mac?
Place the curser where you want the text, double tap the “fn” key and start speaking.
press “fn” once to stop.

More info on dictation here; https://support.apple.com/en-gb/guide/mac-help/mh40584/mac

Note: Correct as of Mac OS 11.6 Big Sur

Like this hack?

You might also enjoy

Episode 85 – Being a Neurodiversity Advocate with Akua Opong

Join us as we share the inspiring story of Akua, a Senior EUC Engineer at the London Stock Exchange Group (LSEG), who is passionate about helping others. Akua’s journey of self-discovery began while researching neurodiversity support for her organization, leading to her diagnosis of dyslexia and ADHD. Now, she shares her experience to support others facing similar challenges. Beyond her engineering role, Akua is deeply involved in Diversity & Inclusion, serving as LSEG’s WIN Network Head of External Partnerships and UK Accessibility Lead. She’s also a STEM ambassador, mentor, charity ambassador, and sports volunteer. Akua’s dedication to empowering others makes her story truly remarkable.

Episode 56 – Embracing Fitness and Overcoming Challenges with Steve Parke

In this episode of The Dyslexia Life Hacks Show, host Matt engages in a conversation with Steve Parke, the founder of Parkecore personal training. Steve’s journey unfolds as he shares his experiences growing up in Leicester, facing teasing and discrimination due to his skin colour, weight, and dyslexia. Discover how Steve’s transformative summer led to a lifelong passion for fitness and how dyslexia has influenced his understanding of the human body. Gain insights into Steve’s unique training style, his integration of cognitive behavioral therapy and neuro-linguistic programming, and stay tuned for a nutrition tip tailored specifically for dyslexics. Join Matt and Steve as they explore the intersection of dyslexia and fitness, offering practical life hacks for overcoming challenges and embracing a healthier lifestyle.