SottoSotto
Back to blog
developersdocumentationcodingproductivityworkflow

Voice Dictation for Code Documentation: A Developer's Guide

Speed up writing code documentation with voice dictation. Learn techniques for dictating README files, API docs, and code comments efficiently.

K
December 14, 20257 min read

Documentation is essential but tedious. Voice dictation lets you write docs at the speed of thought, turning a dreaded task into something almost enjoyable.

Why Voice for Documentation

  • Natural explanations: Speaking produces clearer prose than typing
  • Faster output: 3-4x faster than typing for most people
  • Less context switching: Explain code while looking at it
  • Reduced RSI: Give your hands a break

What to Dictate

  • README files and project overviews
  • API documentation and usage examples
  • Code comments explaining complex logic
  • Architecture decision records (ADRs)
  • Troubleshooting guides

Dictation Workflow

  1. Open the code you're documenting
  2. Start dictation and explain what it does
  3. Use voice commands for markdown formatting
  4. Light editing pass for technical terms

Technical Terms

Modern Whisper handles technical vocabulary surprisingly well. Terms like "async await", "API endpoint", and "null pointer" transcribe correctly. For project-specific terms, use a custom dictionary.

Pro Tips

  • Speak in complete sentences, not fragments
  • Pause briefly between sections
  • Say punctuation explicitly when needed
  • Review and edit in a separate pass

Document Faster

Sotto's local transcription handles technical vocabulary. $29 one-time purchase.

Get Sotto
K

About Kitze

Creator of Sotto and indie developer building tools for productivity. Passionate about local AI and privacy-first software.

Follow on Twitter