A Quick Guide for Windows and Mac
What is a screen Reader?
A screen reader is software that reads aloud the information displayed on your computer screen and allows you to navigate using the keyboard instead of a mouse. Screen readers are essential tools for people who are blind or have low vision, but they can also benefit individuals with print disabilities, learning disabilities, or repetitive strain injuries.
Rather than “seeing” the screen, users explore content through spoken feedback, keyboard commands, and—in some cases—a refreshable Braille display.
Windows Options
JAWS
Job Access With Speech
Best for:
- Students
- Professionals
- Advanced users
Features
- Industry-standard screen reader
- Excellent Microsoft Office support
- Strong web browsing capabilities
- Braille display support
- Highly customizable
NVDA
NonVisual Desktop Access
Best for:
- Students
- Personal use
- Budget-friendly accessibility
Features
- Free and open source
- Excellent Windows support
- Strong web browsing
- Microsoft Office compatible
- Portable version available
Narrator
Included with Windows
Features
- No installation required
- Basic screen reading
- Supports web browsing
- Microsoft Office support
- Ideal for getting started
Turn Narrator On/Off
Windows + Ctrl + Enter
macOS
VoiceOver
VoiceOver is Apple’s built-in screen reader and is included with every Mac.
Features
- Included with macOS
- Excellent Safari support
- Strong integration with Apple apps
- Braille support
- Works across the entire operating system
Turn VoiceOver On/Off
Command + F5
(On laptops with Touch ID, you may need Fn + Command + F5.)
Basic Navigation
Screen readers rely primarily on the keyboard
Useful keys include:
- Tab – Move forward between controls
- Shift + Tab – Move backward
- Arrow Keys – Read text and navigate lists
- Enter – Activate buttons and links
- Spacebar – Select checkboxes and controls
- Esc – Exit menus or dialogs
Each screen reader also includes many additional keyboard shortcuts for navigating headings, links, tables, and forms.
Tips for Success
✔ Learn keyboard navigation before learning screen reader commands.
✔ Practice using websites with headings and landmarks.
✔ Use structured documents with proper headings.
✔ Learn a few commands at a time.
✔ Keep your software up to date.
✔ Don’t be afraid to slow the speech rate while learning.
Which Screen Reader Should I Choose?
Windows
✔ JAWS (Commercial)
✔ NVDA (Free)
✔ Narrator (Included)
macOS
✔ VoiceOver (Included)
Key Takeaway
A screen reader doesn’t just read what’s on the screen—it opens the door to education, employment, and everyday participation. The goal isn’t simply to hear information, but to access, understand, and engage with the digital world independently.