Check Your Data with Sound

Most lengthy numerical spreadsheets will introduce the possibillity of keyboard error on data entry. Proofing your typing can be tedious. You may find that having someone read the information in the spreadsheet while you check your scrap paper or notes would be useful. What do you do if you are alone? The answer is to direct Excel to read to you! Let's see how.

The easiest way to accomplish this is using the Text to Speech Tool Bar.

Select Tools + Speech + Show Text to Speech Toolbar.

 

The Toolbar has several buttons that do different things.

 

 

Hover mouse to see the different buttons. Here are the Speak Cells, by Rows and by Columns, and Speak on Enter

 

 

In order to begin the process, you will need to access the Speech Icon in the Control Panel.

 

 

Click on the Text to Speech tab.

 

 

 

You may/may not want to experiment with the different voices or let your system learn your voice.

 

We found the process of cutting sound on/off a slight bother. You will have to weigh the value of someone reading your cell contents against shifting from the screen to your notes to check cell values against your typing.

Simply select the cells you need to check and sit back as their contents are read to you in the computerized voice.

If you find the small investment helpful, then use the speech process to help check your work. If not, remember that you had a choice and thank Microsoft for allowing you the opportunity of proofing your work in your preferred style.

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