Using the voice recorder built into your computer operating system can assist with memory and task management. One way to use it – record thoughts or action items that pop into your head while you are working on something else. You can review the voice note later to remember that thing you didn’t want to forget.
Another way is to use it during meetings. If there is information that you want to capture, ask permission to audio a portion of the meeting. Later, you can listen to the recording to be sure that you are completing all the tasks or incorporating the important points from the meeting into your work.
Using the step-by-step instructions below, explore how leveraging a computer voice recorder can enhance memory retention and boost productivity.
The benefits of using a voice recorder:
- Captures fleeting thoughts and action items in real time
- Enhances memory retention by providing auditory cues
- Helps ensure task completion by referencing recorded information
Microsoft: Voice Recorder
- On the desktop screen of a Windows computer, type Voice Recorder in the Search bar and press Enter.
- The Voice Recorder pop-up window will appear.
- Press the Microphone icon in the center of the pop-up window.
- Pause the recording by clicking the Pause icon (parallel lines).
- Stop the recording by pressing the circle in the center which contains the Stop icon (square).
- When you stop recording, the audio file will automatically save your in your Documents folder in a subfolder called Sound Recordings.
- You could save the Sound Recordings folder to your desktop screen for easy access. Listen to the audio recordings to prompt your memory to about a task or list of tasks.
Microsoft Support articles: How to use Voice Recorder and Boost your productivity with a voice recorder for your PC
Apple: Voice Memos
- Open the Voice Memos app one of two ways: (1) click the search button (magnifying glass icon) in the top right menu on the desktop and type “voice memo” or (2) open Launchpad and click on the Voice Memo app. Pin the Voice Memo app to the taskbar, if desired.
- Click the Record button (red circle).
- To pause, click the Pause button (parallel lines). To continue, click Resume.
- To stop, click Done in the lower-right corner.
- Click the words New Recording and to the memo a title.
Apple Support article: Voice Memos User Guide
Other strategies for time and task management
- Add your schedule and activities to a digital calendar include reminders and alerts
- Sync your work, school, or athletic calendar with your personal digital calendar
- Set a timer to focus on tasks and take breaks
- Set an alarm to remember appointments or tasks
- Use a project management tool with categorized columns and task cards
- Use reminders to remember appointments or tasks
- Reference a digital to-do list
- Put digital sticky notes on your computer desktop for memory support
Resources
These resources are provided simply to create awareness about additional options for voice notes.
- Use an app on your smartphone for voice notes:
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