How to convert handwriting to text on iPad Notes?

FAQ Handwriting to text
Published May 22, 2024

Converting handwritten notes to digital text on an iPad can be incredibly efficient for organizing and sharing information. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to achieve this using the Notes app and other helpful tools:

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

Using Apple Notes App:

  1. Open the Notes App: Launch the Notes app on your iPad.
  2. Create a New Note: Tap the new note icon to start a fresh note.
  3. Use the Pencil Tool: In the toolbar above the keyboard, select the pencil icon to write with your Apple Pencil.
  4. Write Your Note: Use your Apple Pencil to write your note by hand.
  5. Convert to Text: The Notes app will automatically recognize your handwriting. While it does not directly convert handwriting to typed text within the same note, it makes your handwritten text searchable.

Using Third-Party Apps:

If you need more robust features, several third-party apps can convert handwriting to text more precisely:

  1. Notability:

    • Write with Apple Pencil: Open a note and write with your Apple Pencil.
    • Select Handwriting: Use the lasso tool to select your handwritten text.
    • Convert to Text: Tap 'Convert to Text' from the popup menu.
  2. GoodNotes 5:

    • Create New Note: Open GoodNotes and create a new note.
    • Handwrite Easily: Use the Apple Pencil to write your notes.
    • Lasso Tool for Text: Select the handwriting using the lasso tool and choose 'Convert' from the popup menu.

Leveraging OCR Technology:

Optical Character Recognition (OCR) technology is incredibly useful for converting handwriting in images or PDFs to text. HandwritingOCR is a specialized tool that you can access at HandwritingOCR.com to convert handwritten text from PDFs or images to digital text. Here’s how you can use OCR:

  1. Take a Photo or Scan: Capture an image of your handwritten notes using your iPad camera.
  2. Upload the Image: Visit HandwritingOCR.com and upload your image or PDF file.
  3. Convert to Text: The OCR tool will automatically process the handwriting and convert it to digital text which can then be copied, edited, and shared.

Conclusion:

Converting handwriting to text on an iPad is both simple and versatile thanks to built-in tools and third-party applications. Whether you use Notes, Notability, GoodNotes, or HandwritingOCR for your images and PDFs, these tools make managing handwritten content more efficient.

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