Reading by word

By Adrian Davids

Moving from character to character to locate the spelling of a particular word is quite interesting, but another method I like to use is when the word is being spelled by Jaws.

So, let us see how to manipulate our cursor keys to perform this task.

I would once again suggest that you get your favourite document or page for the exercise.

Locating keys to be used

1. Find the Insert key with your thumb on the num pad. [the big key on the botem left corner]
2. Find the arrow keys or home row, 4, 5 and 6 for navigation.

Reading and spelling words

Now that we have the correct placement of the fingers, do the following.

1. To speak the prior word, hold down the insert key with your thumb and press num pad 4. [left arrow]
2. To speak the word that you are on, hold down the insert key and press num pad 5. [The one with the bump]
3. To spell the word that you are on, hold down the insert key and press num pad 5 twice quickly.
4. To speak the next word, hold down the insert key and press num pad 6. [right arrow]

This is one of my favourite techniques to use with Jaws. Let us know what tips and tricks you like to use when reading documents and screens with your screen reader.