There are various text-to-speech tools and applications available FREE for general use. The following is a few suggestions:
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Free Web-based text-to-speech tools: (Choose one of the applications below. Our #1 choice, very easy to use)
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Ally in Canvas (CSUDH): This service is only for CSUDH teaching faculty & students currently enrolled in classes. How to download Alternative Formats/MP3 & video instruction.
(Warning: PDF narrator will ask you to log on to Campus account, may not be responsive to keystroke, and can be confusing to activate and set up)
- Step 1: Open the PDF document.
- Step 2: Follow the Instruction below to activate the screen reader:
- Step 3: Click on the Read Aloud on top menu bar (below):
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Windows operating system: Narrator is Windows' on-screen reader.
(Warning: Windows Narrator does NOT read PDF document, difficult to control the reading section on the screen, and confusing to set up reading options, etc.)
![](https://libapps.s3.amazonaws.com/accounts/41715/images/WindowsNarratorActi2.jpg)
- Step 3: Click on "Minimized" below:
![](https://libapps.s3.amazonaws.com/accounts/41715/images/WindowsNarratorActi3.jpg)
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Mac: You can use VoiceOver
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Linux: you can explore options like Orca.
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Mobile apps:
- Many mobile devices have built-in accessibility features or software, like text-to-speech.
- Additionally, there are apps available for download that specialize in text-to-speech.