How to convert handwriting to text in OneNote on iPad?

OneNote is a versatile tool for capturing and organizing your notes, and it offers built-in features to convert handwriting to text. Here's how you can convert handwriting to text in OneNote on an iPad:

1. Open the OneNote App: Start by opening the OneNote app on your iPad. Make sure you are signed in with your Microsoft account.

2. Select Your Notebook: Choose the notebook and the specific section or page where your handwritten notes are located.

3. Use the Lasso Tool: To convert handwriting to text, you'll need to select your handwriting. Tap on the Lasso Select tool located in the Draw tab of the toolbar.

4. Select the Handwritten Notes: Use your finger or Apple Pencil to draw a circle around the handwriting you want to convert. Ensure all the handwriting you wish to convert is included in the selection.

5. Convert to Text: Once you have your handwriting selected, tap on the selected area. A menu will appear - choose the Ink to Text option. OneNote will process the handwriting and convert it to editable text.

For best results, ensure your handwriting is clear and legible. The accuracy of the conversion can depend on how well the handwriting is recognized by OneNote's OCR (Optical Character Recognition) technology.

If you are looking for more advanced handwriting OCR options or need to convert handwriting in PDFs or images to text, you can use HandwritingOCR at https://www.handwritingocr.com. This tool can provide more precise conversions, especially for complex documents and images.

Troubleshooting Tips

• Check for Updates: Make sure the OneNote app is updated to the latest version to utilize the most recent features and improvements.
• Handwriting Quality: Ensure your handwriting is neat. Sloppy or connected letters can sometimes confuse OCR software.
• Language Settings: Verify that OneNote's language settings match the language of your handwriting for better recognition accuracy.

Alternatives

If you find that OneNote's handwriting recognition doesn't meet your needs, consider using third-party apps or services for OCR:

• Microsoft Lens: Another app by Microsoft that allows you to capture handwritten notes and convert them to text.
• Evernote: Offers OCR for notes and can be a viable alternative.
• HandwritingOCR: The dedicated service for converting handwriting to text from apps, PDFs, or images, available at https://www.handwritingocr.com.

By following these steps, you can effectively turn your handwritten notes into digital text, making them easier to edit, search, and share.