Google Docs has the ability to transcribe audio, recognize user voice, and convert it to text. The intriguing part is that, with the help of a plugin, the resource can still be used with audio and video files from the computer, making transcription more easier, especially for communication professionals. So, here’s how to use Google Docs to transcribe an audio file.
How to use Google Docs to transcribe audio
The simplest way to use the transcribing tool is to dictate the text into the microphone. Other sources, such as audio and video files, can also be used with this method.
- Connect a microphone: On your computer, connect a microphone or a headset with a microphone;
- Open a new file: In Google Chrome, open a new Google document through your email account;
- Click “Voice Typing”: In the “Tools” option on the top bar of Google Docs, click on the “Voice Typing” option ;
- Click on the microphone icon: By clicking on the microphone, start dictating the text, clearly and at a normal pace. Don’t forget to allow Google Chrome to use your computer’s microphone;
- Click on the red microphone icon: After finishing the voice recording, click the microphone icon again, now red.
How do I transcribe a file?
- To transcribe audio from a file (or even a YouTube video) in Google Docs, you’d generally need to position the microphone near the speakers or attach a P2 connection to the sound output and microphone input. Both strategies are ineffective since they reduce quality.
- Fortunately, the VB-CABLE Virtual Audio Device plugin for Windows is free and functions as a virtual male-to-male P2 cable, saving time and improving quality. Learn how to do it here:
- Download the plugin Go to the plugin website ( https://vb-audio.com/Cable/index.htm ), download it and unzip the file;
- Click on VBCABLE_setup.exe With the right mouse button, select “Run as administrator” and follow the installation instructions;
- Click on the speaker icon: On the Toolbar, click on the speaker icon with the right mouse button and select “Sound Settings” ;
- Select CABLE Input (VB-Audio Virtual Cable): Under “Choose output device” (circled in red) and under “Choose input device” (circled in blue), select CABLE Output (VB-Audio Virtual Cable). The PC will be silent, but this is normal;
- Open a new file: In Google Docs, open a new file, click on “Tools” on the top bar and then on “Voice Typing”, as in the tutorial above;
- Play the recording you’d like to transcribe: When you click to play the file, click the Google Docs microphone button right away so the two can collaborate. The audio will be transferred to Google Docs, where it will be transcribed nearly losslessly.
- Re-press the microphone button: Select the microphone icon, which is now red, once the recording is complete.
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Source: Nyscinfo