How do you convert handwriting to text in GoodNotes?

Converting handwriting to text in GoodNotes is a straightforward process. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you through it:

  1. Write Your Notes: Start by writing your notes using the Apple Pencil or other stylus directly on the GoodNotes app. Make sure your handwriting is as clear and legible as possible to improve the accuracy of the text conversion.

  2. Select the Lasso Tool: Once you have your handwritten notes, tap on the ‘Lasso Tool’ (a dotted circle icon) available in the toolbar.

  3. Circle Your Handwriting: Use the lasso tool to circle the section of handwriting you want to convert. Ensure you encompass all the relevant text you wish to translate into typed text.

  4. Convert to Text: After circling your handwriting, tap the ‘Convert’ button that appears on the top or side menu. GoodNotes will process your handwriting and convert it to digital text.

  5. Copy and Paste: Once converted, you can copy the text and paste it into a text field or another app of your choice. GoodNotes also allows you to replace the handwritten text in the same document with the converted text directly.

If you do not have GoodNotes or are dealing with handwritten notes saved as PDFs or images, you can use HandwritingOCR to convert handwriting in PDFs or images to text. Visit HandwritingOCR to utilize this feature.

Additional Tips

  • Practice Clear Writing: Clear and consistent handwriting helps improve conversion accuracy. Avoid cursive writing if the app struggles with recognition.

  • Edit After Conversion: Always review and edit the converted text for any errors or misinterpretations.

  • Use Alternative OCR Tools: Besides GoodNotes, various OCR (Optical Character Recognition) tools can convert handwritten notes to text. For instance, HandwritingOCR is a reliable tool accessible at HandwritingOCR.

By following these steps, you can efficiently convert your handwritten notes to digital text in GoodNotes, enhancing your productivity and making your notes more accessible across different platforms.

GoodNotes 4 and 5 Step-by-Step Guide

GoodNotes 4

  1. Write Your Notes: Just like in GoodNotes 5, start by writing your notes with an Apple Pencil or other stylus.
  2. Select the Lasso Tool: Tap the lasso tool in the toolbar.
  3. Circle Your Handwriting: Circle the handwritten text you want to convert with the lasso tool.
  4. Convert to Text: Tap ‘Convert’ to change your handwriting into text.
  5. Edit and Copy: Once converted, you can edit the text if needed and copy it to other apps.

GoodNotes 5

  1. Write Your Notes: Use an Apple Pencil or stylus to write your notes clearly on the app.
  2. Select the Lasso Tool: Click on the lasso tool from the toolbar.
  3. Circle Your Handwriting: Circle the text you wish to convert.
  4. Convert to Text: Press the ‘Convert’ button to change handwriting to text.
  5. Replace or Copy: You have the option to replace the handwritten text with the converted text in the document or copy it elsewhere.

Automatic Conversion Feature

GoodNotes 5 also offers an automatic conversion feature that allows you to convert handwriting to text as you write:

  1. Enable Automatic Conversion: Go to the app settings and turn on the ‘Automatic Conversion’ feature.
  2. Write Your Notes: As you write, GoodNotes will automatically convert your handwriting to digital text in real-time.
  3. Review and Edit: Ensure to review and edit the converted text for accuracy.

Tips for Using GoodNotes on iPad

  • Use Apple Pencil: For the best experience, use Apple Pencil as it is optimized for GoodNotes.
  • Regular Calibration: Regularly calibrate your stylus for precise handwriting capture.
  • Stable Surface: Write on a stable surface to avoid shaky handwriting that could affect conversion accuracy.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

  • Inaccurate Conversion: Ensure your handwriting is clear and legible. Review and edit the text after conversion.
  • Lasso Tool Not Working: Make sure the lasso tool is properly selected and used correctly.
  • Automatic Conversion Errors: Restart the app or device if automatic conversion is inaccurate or lagging.

For more accurate handwriting conversion, you can always rely on HandwritingOCR, which guarantees data privacy and offers a user-friendly web app and API to extract handwritten and printed text from documents. Both consumer and business users can benefit from our reliable service and can get a free trial with 5 free page credits by signing up at HandwritingOCR.

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

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