How to convert handwriting to text in Apple Notes?

FAQ Handwriting to text
Published April 18, 2024

Apple Notes is a powerful application for iOS and macOS users, offering a variety of features that make note-taking and organization convenient. One of these features is the ability to convert handwritten notes into typed text. Here’s how you can do it:

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Steps to Convert Handwriting to Text in Apple Notes

  1. Open Apple Notes: Start by opening the Apple Notes application on your iPhone, iPad, or Mac.

  2. Create or Select a Note: Either create a new note or open an existing note where you have handwriting.

  3. Use the Apple Pencil (for iPad users): If you are using an iPad with an Apple Pencil, you can directly start writing in the Notes app using the Apple Pencil.

  4. Tap the Handwriting Tool: In the toolbar above the keyboard, tap the handwriting tool (which looks like a pen).

  5. Write Your Note: Write your notes as you normally would. Apple Notes will automatically recognize your handwriting and provide conversion options.

  6. Select the Handwritten Text: Use your finger or the Apple Pencil to select the handwritten text that you wish to convert.

  7. Choose 'Copy as Text': After selecting the handwritten text, tap on it again to bring up the context menu. Select 'Copy as Text' from the options provided.

  8. Paste Converted Text: Now, you can paste the converted text anywhere you like within the note or in another app.

Additional Tips

  • Using Search in Apple Notes: You can also use the search feature in Apple Notes to find specific phrases or words within your handwritten notes, as the app automatically indexes handwritten content.

  • iCloud Syncing: Ensure your Apple Notes are synced with iCloud so you can access and convert your notes from any of your Apple devices.

For more comprehensive conversion of handwriting in PDFs or images to digital text, you can use specialized OCR (Optical Character Recognition) tools. HandwritingOCR (https://www.handwritingocr.com) is an excellent option for converting handwritten texts from PDFs or images into editable digital text.

By following these steps, you can efficiently convert your handwritten notes into typewritten text on Apple Notes, making it easier to edit, search, and organize your notes.

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