If you are unsure about a word choice or need spelling and grammar assistance, use a digital dictionary. Try the digital dictionary built into Google productivity applications and add the dictionary extension for Google Chrome.
The benefits of a digital dictionary:
- Instant access to definitions inside the application aids in maintaining focus
- Helps you choose the most appropriate word for your context
- Assists in determining the correct spelling of word
To begin, open the Chrome web browser on either a Mac or Windows computer. Use the login instructions on the Free Microsoft Account and Free Google Account page to open Google Docs.
Google: Digital dictionary
Dictionary in Google Docs (also available in Slides)
- Open a document in Docs or Slides.
- Place the text cursor by the word you want to look up.
- Select Tools from the menu. Click Dictionary from the drop down. OR Right click and select Define.
Google Dictionary Extension in the Chrome web browser
Consider adding the Google Dictionary extension to the Chrome web browser to easily view definitions of words on webpages or the search results page. If helpful, read the Google Help instructions to install and manage extensions.
There are 2 ways to view a word definition after the extension is installed:
- First, open a web page in Chrome.
- Then, either double-click a word for a pop-up definition or select a word and click the dictionary extension icon for a complete dictionary entry.
Tip: With the Google Dictionary Extension, you can store a history of the words you’ve looked up, so you can reference them later.
Microsoft: Free applications lack a digital dictionary, but other options are available
Unfortunately, a digital dictionary is not included in the free Microsoft applications such as Word Online. For confirmation, view the Microsoft Support article: Where is the dictionary?
Nevertheless, you can perform a web search within Word Online to view a definition of a word. Plus, Microsoft provides a syllable and parts of speech tool in Immersive Reader that includes some of the same information as a dictionary entry.
Remember: Keep some offline solutions in your environment when reading paper materials or when technology is unavailable (no battery power or lost WiFi connection). For example, have a traditional paper dictionary, translation dictionary, or similar items on your shelf.
Additional assistance with writing conventions
- Capitalization autocorrect and checkers
- Spelling and grammer autocorrect and checkers
- Word prediction
- Speech recognition
- Text-to-speech to hear words spoken to listen for errors
- Peer review using a comment feature or suggested edits feature
Resources
These resources are provided simply to create awareness about additional options for writing strategies. It is a curated list of applications in alphabetical order.
Subscription browser extensions with tools for writing
Helperbird – A toolbar with digital support tools for reading and writing. Helperbird includes a dictation feature, spell check, picture dictionary and dictionary. Install as a browser extension. Free trial period.
Kurzweil 3000 – Software with digital support tools for reading and writing. Kurzweil 3000 has a dictation feature, word prediction, spell check, and dictionary. Can install as a browser extension. Free trail period.
Read&Write – A software toolbar with digital support tools for reading and writing. Read&Write has a dictation feature, word prediction, spell check, picture dictionary, and dictionary. Can be installed as a browser extension. Free 30 day trial.
Snap&Read – Another software toolbar with digital support tools for reading and writing. Snap&Read includes a dictation feature, spell check, and picture dictionary. Can be installed as a browser extension. Free trial period.
Note: Some educational institutions and workplaces have a subscription to these software packages as part of inclusion practices. Check to see if you have already have access to these tools through your school or employer, if applicable.
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