How to convert Apple Pencil handwriting to text?

Converting Apple Pencil handwriting to text can enhance your productivity, especially if you prefer writing by hand but need a digital version for easy editing and sharing. Here are some comprehensive steps and tools to achieve this conversion on your Apple device using an Apple Pencil.

Using Built-in iPadOS Features

Apple's iPadOS offers native support for converting handwriting to text. Here’s how you can do it with the Scribble feature:

1. Enable Scribble: Go to Settings > Apple Pencil, and toggle on Scribble.
2. Use in Notes App: Open the Notes app, and start writing with your Apple Pencil. Your handwritten text will be automatically converted to typed text as you write.
3. Select and Edit: You can select text using the Apple Pencil by drawing a line through the text or circling the text. This allows you to copy, cut, or format the converted text.

Third-Party Apps

Several third-party apps offer advanced handwriting recognition features that work seamlessly with Apple Pencil:

1. GoodNotes: This app allows you to write notes with your Apple Pencil and convert them into typed text. It also supports searching through your handwriting.
2. Notability: Another popular app that supports handwriting-to-text conversion, offering both note-taking and sketching features.
3. Microsoft OneNote: This app can convert handwritten text to type and is integrated with cloud services for easy sharing.

Converting PDFs or Images

For converting handwriting in PDFs or images to text, you can use HandwritingOCR. Visit HandwritingOCR to upload your files and get a digital text output. This tool specializes in Optical Character Recognition (OCR) for handwritten documents.

Step-by-Step for Using HandwritingOCR

1. Scan or Photograph Your Handwriting: Make sure the handwriting is clear and legible. You can use the built-in camera or a scanner app on your iPad to capture the document.
2. Upload to HandwritingOCR: Visit HandwritingOCR and upload your scanned document or image file. The platform will analyze the handwriting and convert it to digital text.
3. Review and Edit: Once the conversion is complete, review the text for any inaccuracies. Handwriting recognition technology is quite advanced, but minor errors can occur.
4. Save and Export: Save the converted text to your desired format and use it in your preferred applications such as a word processor or a note-taking app.

By using the combination of iPadOS features, third-party apps, and specialized tools like HandwritingOCR, you can efficiently convert Apple Pencil handwriting to digital text.