> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://help.elationhealth.com/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Templates Guide- Using Dragon Dictation to dictate in Elation

> This article describes how you can use Dragon © dictation software with Elation.

## What is dictation software?

Dictation software allows you to convert verbal speech to text on an electronic document or in a text-compatible software. Dictation softwares allows providers and other medical professionals to quickly document information through speech instead of typing the information using a keyboard.

## Using Dragon© dictation software with Elation

<iframe src="https://player.vimeo.com/video/98070465?wmode=opaque" frameBorder="0" allowFullScreen />

You can use Dragon Medical © dictation software with Elation. Our physicians have found that the Dragon Medical © edition is much more accurate than the standard Dragon © dictation software.

To use Dragon Medical © dictation software with Elation, you must first have the software installed on the computer you plan to dictate on. Please follow the instructions that are included with the Dragon © software.

Once Dragon has been installed on your computer, log into Elation and open a patient's chart. Put your mouse cursor into any text field and start dictation using Dragon ©. Dragon Medical © software will work the same as if you were dictating in a note inside a word document.

## Best visit note formats for dictation

When documenting a visit note, we recommend that you use either the **Simple Note** or the **SOAP Note** [Visit Note Formats](/articles/Visit-Note-Documentation-Guide-Visit-Note-Formats) when dictating, as the formatting is more conducive for full length sentences. However, you can use any visit note format that you desire while using Dragon Medical © to dictate.

<Note>
  Elation is a web-based EHR system therefore the shortcut commands, called **MyCommands**, by Dragon © will not work. All other features of the Dragon Medical © software will be compatible with Elation.
</Note>

## Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

### Do other dictation softwares work with Elation?

A majority of Elation's users use Dragon © dictation software. Other options include:

* M\*Modal
* Speechnotes

If you already have an existing dictation software, we recommend using the dictation software alongside Elation to see if they are compatible.

### Do other versions of Dragon software work with Elation?

Our physicians have found that the Dragon Medical © edition is much more accurate than the standard Dragon © dictation software. However, other Dragon © dictation software can still work with Elation.

*© 2022 Nuance Communications, Inc. All rights reserved.*

## Related Articles

* [Templates Introduction- Template options in the EHR](/articles/templates-settings)
* [Templates Guide- Using templating softwares with Elation](/articles/using-templating-softwares-with-elation)