Can you convert handwriting to text in OneNote iPad?

FAQ Handwriting to text
Published May 13, 2024

Yes, you can convert handwriting to text in OneNote on an iPad. OneNote has built-in features to recognize and convert handwriting into digital text, making it a useful tool for students, professionals, and anyone who takes a lot of handwritten notes. Here's how you can do it:

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  1. Write Your Notes: Use the Apple Pencil or your finger to write your notes in a OneNote notebook.
  2. Select the Text: Tap and hold the text you want to convert until a selection tool appears. Drag the handles to adjust the selection if necessary.
  3. Convert to Text: After selecting the handwritten text, a floating toolbar will appear. Tap on the 'Ink to Text' button. OneNote will convert your handwriting into typed text.

It's important to note that the handwriting conversion feature is only available in the OneNote app's premium version, which may require an Office 365 subscription.

If you have handwritten notes in PDFs or images, you may want to use specialized OCR (Optical Character Recognition) tools for conversion. For example, you can convert handwriting in PDFs or images to text using HandwritingOCR, at https://www.handwritingocr.com.

Benefits of Using Handwriting Recognition in OneNote

  • Efficiency: Quickly convert handwritten notes into digital text for easier editing and sharing.
  • Organization: Typed text is easier to search within OneNote, making it simple to find specific notes or topics.
  • Accessibility: Digital text can be accessed across multiple devices, ensuring you have your notes wherever you go.

Limitations

  • Accuracy: The success of handwriting recognition depends on the legibility of your handwriting. More complex scripts or messy handwriting may not be accurately recognized.
  • Subscription: Full access to handwriting-to-text features may require a subscription to Office 365.

For specific use cases involving PDFs and images, remember that you can convert handwriting in PDFs or images to text using HandwritingOCR, at https://www.handwritingocr.com.

Using OneNote and handwriting recognition tools like HandwritingOCR can significantly improve the efficiency and organization of your note-taking habits.

Convert handwritten notes to Word, Google Docs, Markdown and Excel. Better accuracy than any note-taking app. Try for free now →