Assistive Tech for Reading, Writing & Summarising
Tools to help you read smarter, write clearer, and make sense of information faster.
Find tools to help you read, write, and summarise more effectively — whether you’re studying with dyslexia or just want to make learning easier. From text-to-speech and speech-to-text software to AI tools that turn long readings into clear summaries, these resources can save you time, reduce stress, and help you focus on understanding rather than decodings.
Writing Support
If spelling, grammar, or getting started feels tricky, these tools help you express your ideas clearly.
- Read&Write – reads text aloud, offers word prediction, screen masking and spelling support. (Available via Chrome and Edge extension, log in via Microsoft with QUB email and password)
- Microsoft Editor – built-in grammar and style checker in Word and Edge.
- Dictation (Windows, Mac, or mobile) – turns speech into text when typing is tiring.
- MindView – visual mind-mapping tool that helps you plan essays, structure reports, and create summaries. You can export your mind maps directly to Word or PowerPoint to start writing faster. (To request access to Scholarcy, book in for a session here or contact the Assistive Technology Coordinator.)
- Goblin Tools – free online and app-based tool that can break down tasks, check tone, and help with planning — great if you struggle with getting started on writing tasks.
- Apple Speak Screen & Spoken Content – built-in tool to read out any text on screen.
- Android Select-to-Speak & Text-to-Speech – reads out text on Android devices.
- Google Docs Voice Typing (Chrome browser) – free voice dictation tool to help with writing.
Summarising & Understanding
Perfect for tackling long readings or lecture notes when you’re short on time.
- Scholarcy – AI tool that creates bite-size summaries and flashcards from articles, PDFs, or Word files. (To request access to Scholarcy, book in for a session here or contact the Assistive Technology Coordinator.)
- Genio – audio note-taking tool to capture lectures and add your own notes later — great if you find writing everything down hard in the moment. (To request access to Genio, book in for a session here or contact the Assistive Technology Coordinator.)
- NotebookLM (Google) – summarises and explains your own uploaded notes, research papers, or readings.
- Microsoft Co-pilot – summarises documents, rephrases complex sections, and creates revision questions in Word or Edge.
- 👉 Check out our Copilot guide: Using AI Safely & Smartly
- Edge PDF Reader with Copilot – reads PDFs aloud, summarises and simplifies documents in the browser.
- Microsoft Immersive Reader – built into Word, OneNote, Teams, Outlook, Edge browser. Reads text aloud, simplifies page layout, offers line focus and colour changes.
- Speechify (free online version) – turns any text—like articles, PDFs, or emails—into audio you can listen to in natural, celebrity voices (yes, even Snoop Dogg and Gwyneth Paltrow!) and now even lets you create your own mini podcasts from what you’re reading.
- Safari Reader View (Mac, iPad, iPhone) – strips out ads and clutter from web pages for easier reading.
- Windows Voice Typing (Win+H) – lets you dictate text directly into Word and many other apps.
- Natural Reader (free online version) – listen to websites and documents being read aloud.
- ChatGPT / Google Gemini / Microsoft Copilot – summarise, simplify, and explain key sections of your academic readings. For guidance on responsible and ethical use of AI in your studies, see the QUB AI Hub.
Quick Tips
✅Try using Immersive Reader in Word to simplify reading and listen to documents.
✅ Use mind mapping tools like MindView to plan before writing — this helps with structure and flow.
✅ Listen to your own writing with Read&Write or Natural Reader to check for errors and improve clarity.
✅ Use voice typing or dictation when words are hard to get onto the page.
✅ Try Goblin Tools to help break larger tasks into smaller, more manageable steps
✅ Try using the Edge PDF Reader with Copilot to help summarise and understand long PDFs — you can ask Copilot to explain key sections or simplify academic language.
Explore More Tools
If you’re looking for extra support with reading, writing, and study strategies, Dyslexia Hub’s Technology page is packed with helpful guides. While focused on dyslexia, many of the tools and tips are relevant for students with a wide range of needs—from ADHD to visual stress to general learning preferences.
🧰 Getting Started with Assistive Tech
Not sure where to begin? Here’s how to choose the right tools:
- Know Your Needs – What’s most challenging for you?
- Pick Your Style – Visual learner? Prefer voice tools?
- Start Small – Try 1–2 tools before adding more
- Check Device Compatibility – Apple, Android, Windows, etc.
- Explore & Adapt – Try free versions and see what sticks
🎯 Try this: AHEAD’s “Discover your AT” tool helps match tools to your needs.
💬 Final Thoughts
AT isn’t just about accommodation — it’s about empowerment. The right tech can help you manage tasks, reduce stress, and unlock the way you learn best.
👋 Got a tool you love? Let us know! Sharing what works can help others find their perfect fit too.
Support and Training
👉IT Helpdesk: For licensing issues or technical support, reach out to the QUB IT Helpdesk.
👉 You can attend training to learn how to use any of these tools. Check here for upcoming workshops. Some licensed tools are available after training — we’ll help you get access if they would be useful for you.
👉 You can book a session with the Assistive Technology Coordinator if you need help using any of the suggested tools.