Windows Narrator Screen Reader Quick Guide

Issue / Question
Instructions on using Windows' built in screen reader.
  • How do I use a Screen Reader?
  • Where can I find a text-to-speech tool?
Environment
  • Platform
    • Windows
  • Audience Affected
    • Faculty
    • Staff
    • Students
Resolution
Narrator is a text-to-speech feature built into Windows that enables users to hear text read aloud. It reads and interacts with elements on the screen, like text and buttons, and can be used to read and write emails, browse the Internet, and work with documents, among many other capabilities. 
Note: This feature is available to all Windows users
Accessing Narrator (Windows 10)
  1. Log into your Windows computer
  2. Click the search bar (bottom left corner)
  3. Type Narrator into the search field
  4. Select the Narrator app from the search results list
Accessing Narrator (Windows 11)
  • Quick Access (Keyboard Shortcut): Press the Windows key + Ctrl + Enter together to launch or stop Narrator immediately.
  • Through Settings (For More Control):
    • Press the Windows key to open the Start Menu, then type "Settings" and press Enter.
    • Select Accessibility from the left-hand menu, then click Narrator.
    • Toggle the switch next to "Narrator" to turn it on or off.
    • In this same settings panel, you can check boxes to:
      • Start Narrator after sign-in.
      • Start Narrator before sign-in for everyone (runs on the login screen).
      • Show Narrator Home (a welcome/help screen) when it starts. 
Tutorials, Training & Information
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