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 73 – The Dyslexia Show 2024 and the First Dyscalculia Show with Arran Smith

Dyscalculia, a persistent difficulty in understanding numbers, poses challenges in mathematics unrelated to age or education level. In this podcast episode, host Matt Head interviews Arran Smith, founder of the Dyslexia Show, ahead of the 2024 event where Dyscalculia takes the spotlight to raise awareness and provide support in the realm of neurodiversity. The Dyslexia Show, a leading UK exhibition on dyslexia and neurodiversity, aims to empower and educate those affected. Arran discusses the show’s origin, growth, and future aspirations, emphasizing its role in fostering understanding and support in education, parenting, the workplace, and individual well-being. This marks Arran’s third appearance on the podcast, and listeners can explore more in Episodes 17 and 45.

Episode 80 – 40 years of living with Dyslexia with Matthew Head

In this episode, I share my journey from an 18-year-old college student in 2002, riding a Honda CB400 Super 4 and studying Automotive Engineering, to achieving my dream career despite dyslexia. Ignoring career advisors’ push for university, I focused on my College course. Starting as a mechanic for Volvo, I soon sought more. A dream job testing engines required an Engineering Degree, leading to struggles with Imposter Syndrome. Yet, I completed my degree as a mature student, joining a graduate scheme at 30. Despite dyslexia, which I only began discussing in my 30s, I persevered with grit and determination. This episode delves into my challenges and successes with dyslexia, education, and career aspirations.