How do I change the keyboard shortcut?

On Windows, you can choose a recording shortcut that fits your workflow. The shortcut works while you are using another app, provided VoicePad is running.


Set a new recording shortcut

  1. Open Settings → Hotkeys.
  2. Find the Record shortcut and choose Capture.
  3. Press the key combination you want to use.
  4. Save or confirm if prompted.
  5. Test it once to start a short recording and again to stop.

Check the shortcut displayed in your app rather than relying on an old default: the website and older guides list different defaults.


Choose a combination you do not already use

Try a combination such as Alt+R or Ctrl+Shift+D, then test it in your usual apps. Some editors and browsers already use these combinations.

  • Avoid standard editing shortcuts such as Copy, Paste and Undo.
  • Avoid system commands such as Alt+F4, Win+D and Ctrl+Alt+Del.
  • Check shortcuts in your IDE, browser and other background apps.

If the shortcut does nothing

Confirm VoicePad is running, then try a different combination. If it works only after another app closes, that app may be handling the same shortcut.


Cancel versus stop

On supported Windows builds, Escape cancels the recording without saving. Use your recording shortcut or the mic button to stop and keep the dictation.


More platform-specific guidance: VoicePad Help Center.