How to convert handwriting to text on iPad

Three kinds of handwriting on an iPad

Writing you are about to do

Scribble types it as you write, in any text field[1]

Handwriting already in a note

Apple Notes and note apps such as GoodNotes, Notability and OneNote convert a selection

A finished notebook, a PDF or paper

Export or photograph it and upload it to LoreAI for one Word file

Pick the row that matches what you have. The first two work inside the app you write in. The third is for when you want the whole thing out of the app, as a document you can edit, send or translate.

Scribble: handwriting to text as you write

Scribble is built into iPadOS. Write with Apple Pencil in any text field and it converts your handwriting into typed text, even when your writing runs past the edges of the field[1]. It works on supported models and in several languages[1].

In Apple Notes, tap the Scribble tool to the left of the pen in the tool palette and start writing, and Notes types it as you go[2]. To switch Scribble off, go to Settings, then Apple Pencil, and turn off Scribble[1].

Convert handwriting to text in iPad Notes

1. Select the handwriting. In the note, select the writing with your finger, using the same gestures you use for typed text[2].
2. Copy it. Smart Selection lets you move, copy or delete the selection[2].
3. Paste it as typed text. Paste it into another note or app, and it arrives as typed text[2].

Apple says Smart Selection and handwriting transcription work when your iPad's system language is set to a supported language[2].

iPad apps that convert handwriting to text

Each note app has its own convert command. Step by step guides:

• GoodNotes handwriting to text, with the Lasso Tool.
• Notability handwriting to text, with the Select tool.
• OneNote handwriting to text, with Ink to Text and Copy Text from Picture.

All three convert a selection inside the app. When you want a whole notebook as one document, export it as a PDF from the app and use the steps below.

Turn a notebook or a paper page into Word

1. Get a file. Export the notebook from your note app as a PDF, or photograph a paper page with the iPad camera.
2. Upload it. The free tool on this page reads a photo or page 1 of a PDF. The LoreAI app reads every page.
3. Download Word. Your handwriting comes back typed out, with headings, lists and hand-drawn tables in place.

This suits writing that already exists, such as the notebook from last semester, a scanned PDF someone sent you, or class notes on paper. The app also translates, so notes in Spanish or French come back as an English Word file. Your first document is free, up to 3 pages and 3 MB. For PDFs only, see handwritten PDF to text.

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