How to convert handwriting image to text in OneNote?

FAQ Handwriting to text
Published May 17, 2024

Converting handwriting images to text in OneNote is a useful feature that allows you to digitize notes, making them searchable and editable. Follow these steps to convert handwriting images to text in OneNote:

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  1. Insert the Handwritten Image:

    • Open OneNote and navigate to the section/page where you want to insert the image.
    • Click on the Insert tab and select Pictures. Choose the image file from your device or alternatively, use From Scanner if you are scanning the handwritten note directly.
  2. Using the OCR Functionality:

    • Once the image is inserted, right-click on the image.
    • Select Copy Text from Picture. This will use OneNote's built-in OCR (Optical Character Recognition) technology to recognize and copy the text from the image.
    • Paste the copied text onto the OneNote page to see your handwritten notes converted to digital text.
  3. Editing and Formatting:

    • The converted text may require some manual editing, especially if the handwriting is not clear or cursive. Ensure you review the text for any discrepancies.
    • Make use of OneNote's text formatting options to organize and format your text as needed.

Tips and Additional Resources

  • Ensure the handwritten notes are clear and legible for better OCR accuracy. Notes that are faint or blurred might not convert accurately.
  • Consider using a stylus or digital pen if you're writing directly on a tablet to improve the legibility of your notes.
  • Explore other OneNote features like tags, highlighting, and integration with other Microsoft Office tools for a more organized note-keeping system.

For more advanced OCR capabilities or better accuracy with handwriting recognition, you can convert handwriting in PDFs or images to text using HandwritingOCR, at HandwritingOCR. This dedicated service can handle more complex handwritten documents and provide better results.

Using OneNote's OCR functionality alongside the specialized tools available at HandwritingOCR can help you manage your handwritten notes efficiently, turning them into valuable, searchable digital texts.

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