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The dictation hotkey

Hermes uses a single hotkey to start dictation. When you speak, Hermes transcribes your speech and can activate triggers based on what you say. The default hotkey is Fn (Function key).

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How to use it

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Press and hold

  1. Press and hold the hotkey
  2. Speak while holding
  3. Release when done
Your speech is transcribed and any matching triggers are activated.

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Double-tap for hands-free

For longer dictations:
  1. Double-tap the hotkey quickly
  2. Speak freely without holding
  3. Tap once to stop
Double-tap is great for long emails, meeting notes, or extended writing sessions.

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Changing the hotkey

To use a different key:
  1. Open Hermes
  2. Go to Settings
  3. Find the dictation hotkey setting
  4. Click to change it
  5. Press your new key

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Good hotkey choices

  • Fn — Most apps don’t use it
  • A modifier + key (like ⌘⇧D) — Less likely to conflict with other apps

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Avoid

  • System shortcuts like ⌘Q or ⌘W
  • Keys your commonly-used apps already use

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Troubleshooting

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Hotkey not working?

  1. Make sure Input Monitoring permission is granted in System Settings
  2. Check if another app is using the same key
  3. Try a different key

Permissions guide

Learn how to grant Input Monitoring permission.