JAWS (Job Access With Speech) Tutorial
Screen Reader: JAWS reads aloud text and user interface elements, making it possible for users to interact with their computer without needing to see the screen.
Customizable: Users can adjust settings based on their needs and proficiency, making JAWS a flexible tool for various users.
Keyboard Commands: JAWS can be fully operated using the keyboard, which is often more efficient than using a mouse. It includes both Windows commands and JAWS-specific commands.
Installation: JAWS is available for Windows computers. The latest version is JAWS 2024. It is not freeware, so a license or subscription is required for full use.
Keyboard Layouts: JAWS offers both laptop and desktop keyboard layouts to accommodate different types of keyboards.
Start-Up Wizard: A wizard helps set up JAWS preferences on the first launch.
Help: Users can access help at any time by pressing Insert + F1.
Installation and Setup
Installing JAWS
Anyone can install JAWS on their Windows computer. To install JAWS:
Download JAWS: Visit the Freedom Scientific website and download the latest version of JAWS.
Run the Installer: Follow the on-screen instructions to install JAWS on your computer.
License Activation: After installation, you will need to activate your license or start a subscription. JAWS also offers a demo mode that allows 40 minutes of use at a time.
Initial Setup
Upon installing JAWS, a start-up wizard will run on the first launch. This wizard allows you to set up JAWS settings according to your preference, including:
Forms Mode
Start-Up Options
Speech Rate
Punctuation Level
Typing Echo
You can always access the wizard later through the Help menu in the JAWS window if you wish to make changes.
Using JAWS
Keyboard Layouts
JAWS offers two keyboard layouts: laptop and desktop. If your laptop does not have a numeric keypad, it is recommended to switch to the laptop layout. In this layout, the CAPSLOCK key becomes the JAWS modifier key instead of the INSERT key.
Basic Commands
JAWS users have two sets of keyboard commands: Windows commands and JAWS commands. The presence of the JAWS key (usually the Insert key or Caps Lock key) indicates a JAWS command.
Starting and Stopping JAWS
Start JAWS: You can start JAWS by clicking the JAWS icon on the desktop or setting up a keyboard shortcut.
Stop JAWS: To stop JAWS, press INSERT + F4. A dialog box will appear asking if you wish to unload JAWS. Press Enter to confirm or Escape to cancel.
Windows Navigation with JAWS
Desktop
Go to Desktop: Press Windows + D (you should hear “folder view list view”).
Open the Start Menu: Press the Windows Key once.
Go to Taskbar Shortcuts: Press Windows + T.
Access the Windows List: Press Insert + F10 (this lists all open applications/windows).
Access the System Tray: Press Insert + F11.
Tell Current Time: Press Insert + F12.
Start Menu and Taskbar
Start Menu: The Start button opens the Start menu, allowing you to search for applications, files, or folders, and access various computer settings.
Taskbar: The taskbar holds shortcuts for quicker access to applications or files and folders. It also lists running programs, accessible through the Windows list.
Notification Area (System Tray)
The notification area displays computer operations such as sound and internet access. The time is displayed in the right-most corner.
Getting Help
At any time when using JAWS, you can get help by pressing Insert + F1. After listening to the information, press Escape to close the help.
Mohammad Zaripour
