14.1 Open the Voice Keyboard Command List

Speaking Access includes a set of voice commands for moving around inside text boxes and document windows. To open the command list at any time, say: “Voice Keyboard”

This list includes navigation keys, editing keys, and repeated action commands that help users move quickly without touching the keyboard.

14.2 Basic Cursor Movement (Arrow Keys)

These four commands move the cursor one step at a time. They are the most common way to make small, precise movements while editing text:

• “Up key” moves the cursor up
• “Down key” moves the cursor down
• “Left key” moves the cursor left
• “Right key” moves the cursor right

These are excellent for correcting small mistakes, reviewing text, and positioning the cursor exactly where you want it before typing.

14.3 Editing Basics (Backspace and Enter)

Two common commands are used constantly while writing and editing:

• “Backspace key” deletes the character to the left of the cursor
• “Enter key” moves to a new line

These are especially useful when combined with the arrow-key commands for quick corrections.

14.4 Page and Document Navigation

When a document is longer, users can move faster by jumping one page at a time or jumping to the very top or bottom of the document.

• “Page down key” moves down one page
• “Page up key” moves up one page

To jump directly to the start or end of the document, use:

• “Beginning of the document”
• “End of the document”

14.5 Line Navigation (Home and End)

Moving to the beginning or end of a line is another fast way to position the cursor while editing:

• “Home key” moves to the beginning of the current line
• “End key” moves to the end of the current line

These commands are helpful when you want to quickly add text at the start of a line or finish a sentence at the end of a line.

14.6 Tab and Shift+Tab Navigation

Some apps and forms use the Tab key to move between fields, buttons, and interactive areas. Speaking Access provides voice commands to simulate Tab and Shift+Tab:

• “Next key” simulates pressing Tab
• “Previous key” simulates pressing Shift+Tab

These commands are especially helpful for screen reader users when navigating dialog boxes, forms, and settings windows.

14.7 Repeating Commands (Up to 10 Times)

Many navigation and editing commands can be repeated automatically. To do this, speak the command followed by the number of times you want it repeated.

Examples:

• “Enter key 4 times”
• “Up key 5 times”
• “Next key 8 times”
• “Delete key 2 times”

Repeats work up to 10 times. For example, “Delete key 10 times” works, but “Delete key 11 times” does not.

14.8 Moving by Multiple Words

Users can also move by words instead of moving one character at a time. This is useful for jumping quickly through a sentence while staying precise.

• “Right 9 words”
• “Left 4 words”

Word movement supports up to 10 words in either direction.

14.9 Volume Repeats (Up to 5 Times)

Speaking Access can also repeat the volume command multiple times to raise or lower volume in quick steps. To do this, say: “Access Volume Up” or “Access Volume Down”, followed by how many times you want it repeated.

Examples:

• “Access Volume Up 3 times”
• “Access Volume Down 4 times”

Volume repeats work up to 5 times. For example, “Access Volume Up 5 times” works, but “Access Volume Up 6 times” does not.

Reminder: if speaker volume goes above 50, users may get audio feedback.

14.10 If Recognition Struggles (Alternate Phrases)

Some voices may have trouble with the short arrow commands: “Up”, “Down”, “Left”, or “Right”. If recognition is inconsistent, use these longer alternatives instead:

• “Move up key”
• “Move down key”
• “Move left key”
• “Move right key”

These phrases are often easier for the program to recognize and can improve reliability.