How to Turn On or Off Narrator Emphasis in Windows 11
You can turn Narrator emphasis on or off in Windows 11 to control how it highlights important text during read-aloud.
Narrator is Windows 11’s built-in screen reader that vocalizes on-screen content, assisting users with visual impairments or those who prefer audio output.
Emphasis is a specific Narrator setting that makes formatted text, like headings or links, stand out when read. You can enable or disable this feature to tailor your listening experience.
For instance, when emphasis is on, Narrator might say “Heading level 1” before announcing the text of a heading.
Open Settings, go to Accessibility, then Narrator, and under Verbosity, toggle “Emphasize formatted text” on or off. This feature adds vocal cues for headings or links when Narrator reads them.
Why Turn On Narrator Emphasis?
- It helps you notice important words or phrases when Narrator reads.
- Some people like hearing this extra emphasis to understand the text better.
- Others prefer a simple, clear voice without extra emphasis.
How to Enable or Disable Narrator Emphasis on Formatted Text
Follow these easy steps to change the Narrator emphasis setting on your Windows 11 PC:
- Open Windows Settings: Click the Start menu (the Windows icon at the bottom left). Then click Settings. Or press Windows key + I on your keyboard to open Settings directly. Learn more about opening Settings.
- Go to Accessibility: In the Settings window, click Accessibility from the menu on the left side.
- Find Narrator settings: On the right side, scroll down and click on the Narrator section to open more options.
- Change the emphasis setting: Look for the section called Verbosity. Click on Verbosity level to expand it. You will see an option labeled “Emphasize formatted text.” Use the switch to turn this on or off.
- Close Settings: When you’re done, just close the Settings window. Your choice will be saved automatically.
That’s it! Now Narrator will read formatted text with or without extra emphasis. It’s based on your choice.
Summary
Windows Narrator can emphasize important text when reading aloud. This helps you focus on key words.
You can easily turn this emphasis on or off in Settings under Accessibility > Narrator > Verbosity.
This feature makes Narrator more helpful for people with low vision. Or for people who want clearer audio cues.
Follow the simple steps above anytime you want to change this setting.
If you want to learn more about using Narrator, check out this full Narrator guide.
How do I reset Narrator settings?
Select Restore all default to return all commands back to their default settings. To find this setting, press Alt+Tab after Narrator launches, select the Narrator Settings window, and choose Commands.
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Richard
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Richard, a writer for Geek Rewind, is a tech enthusiast who loves breaking down complex IT topics into simple, easy-to-understand ideas. With years of hands-on experience in system administration and enterprise IT operations, he’s developed a knack for offering practical tips and solutions. Richard aims to make technology more accessible and actionable. He's deeply committed to the Geek Rewind community, always ready to answer questions and engage in discussions.
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