Dictation Feature in Word Stops Recognizing Speech Mid-Sentence

 Summary: Users experience dropouts in Microsoft Word's dictation tool, even with working microphones.

Diagnosis Workflow:

Confirm microphone access permissions.

Check internet stability, as dictation uses cloud processing.

Review Office update logs and dictation service availability.

Resolution Steps:

Restart Office app and test dictation in short bursts.

Update to latest version of Microsoft 365.

Reconfigure microphone privacy settings under Windows > Privacy > Microphone.

Test in another app (e.g., Voice Recorder) to isolate hardware vs app issue.

Preventive Measures:

Advise short pauses during dictation to prevent timeout.

Provide alternative voice input options (e.g., Windows Speech Recognition).

Monitor Microsoft service status during outages.