I used to think proofreading was just about catching typos and cleaning up commas—but over time, I learned that how your writing sounds is just as important as how it looks.
That’s why my final proofreading step always includes one thing: reading my writing out loud.
And no, I’m not sitting in a corner whispering to myself (okay, maybe sometimes 😅)—I’m using two read-aloud tools that have totally changed how I review my work.
Here’s how I use them—and why they’ve become non-negotiables in both my creative and academic writing process.
🎧 1. Microsoft Word Read Aloud (Built-in and Free!)
What I love:
- Super easy to access
- Built right into the Review tab of Microsoft Word
- Natural-sounding voice (especially with the updated options)
- Great for catching awkward phrasing or repeated words
How I use it:
I run this tool after I’ve finished my edits—right before I hit “submit” or “publish.”
I listen to my writing line by line, catching the things my eyes missed.
Pro Tip: Adjust the reading speed if you want to listen more slowly while making edits, or pump up the speed if you’re looking for a more natural rhythm.
🔊 2. Speechify (Paid Version)
What I love:
- More natural, expressive voices
- Syncs across devices
- Can read PDFs, web pages, Google Docs, and more
- I can multitask while listening to content
How I use it:
- Final proofread pass for blog posts, email drafts, and client work
- Listening to long reading assignments for school or complex documents at work
Bonus Tip: You can upload your documents or even copy and paste text. It’s super flexible and surprisingly intuitive. If you install the chrome browser, it will load on most websites and you can disable it for sites you regularly visit but don’t need the read aloud feature.
Note: Just to clarify there is also a free version! Try it out if your curious and last time I checked they also offer a free trial period if you want to test for yourself to see if a subscription is worth it.
💡 Why This Step Matters So Much
Sometimes your brain “autofills” what you meant to say—so you skim right over clunky sentences or missing words.
But hearing your writing read aloud? That’s where the magic happens.
It slows you down.
It reveals rhythm issues.
It highlights tone.
And it helps you hear your own voice more clearly.
🧡 Final Thoughts:
Whether you use free tools or invest in premium ones like Speechify, adding a read-aloud pass to your proofreading routine can make a big difference.
Your writing becomes clearer, more natural, and easier to connect with—because it actually sounds like you.
If you haven’t tried reading your work aloud (or having it read to you), this might be the small shift that gives your editing process a big upgrade.
Pen and Polish 