How to convert handwriting to text in Notability
- Open the note. Open the note with the handwriting you want typed[1].
- Tap the Select icon. It is in the toolbox[1].
- Circle the ink. Draw around the writing, then tap inside the selection box[1].
- Choose Convert, then Text. Notability turns the selected handwriting into typed text[1]. Choose Math instead to turn an equation into a scalable image with editable LaTeX[1].
Which languages does Notability read?
Notability uses your device's language for handwriting, and lists 23 supported languages, including English, Spanish, French, German, Italian, Portuguese, Polish, Japanese and Korean[1]. You can set one language for all new notes under Note Editor, Handwriting and Drawing, Language, or set it per note under Note Info, Handwriting Language[1]. Notability says the global setting does not change existing notes[1].
Get a whole Notability note into Word
The convert command works on what you select. To get a full note, a lecture series or a term of notes out as one document, export and upload it.
- Export the note as a PDF. Press and hold the note in the library and choose Export Options, or open the Options menu inside the note. Notability offers PDF, Note, JPEG, PNG and NTB[2].
- Upload the PDF to LoreAI. The free tool here reads page 1. The LoreAI app reads every page and returns one file.
- Open the Word file. Your handwriting is typed out page by page, with headings, bullet points and tables in their original order.
To export several notes, choose Select Notes in the library, pick them and tap Export[2]. Upload each PDF to the app. Your first document is free, up to 3 pages and 3 MB.
Notability Convert or a Word file?
| What you need | Notability Convert | LoreAI |
|---|---|---|
| Input | Ink you select in a Notability note[1] | An exported PDF, a photo or a scan |
| Output | Typed text in the note[1] | An editable Word file, or text to copy |
| How much at once | One selection[1] | Every page of the note in the app |
| Translation | Not part of Notability's convert steps | Into 105 languages in the LoreAI app |
Keep using Notability's convert command for a line or two while you study. Use the Word route when the notes leave the app, for a study group, a report or a thesis draft.
Notes from other apps and from paper
The same export and upload route works for GoodNotes and other iPad apps, and the iPad handwriting guide covers Scribble and Apple Notes. For a handwritten PDF from any source, see handwritten PDF to text.
Questions people ask
Can Notability convert handwriting to text?
Yes. Select the ink with the Select tool, tap inside the box and choose Convert, then Text[1].
Why is Notability not converting my old notes?
Notability says it processes the handwriting in existing notes only while the app is open[1]. Leave the note open for a while, then try again.
How do I export Notability notes to Word?
Export the note as a PDF[2], upload it to LoreAI and download the editable Word file.
Can it translate my Notability notes?
Yes. Upload the exported PDF to the LoreAI app and choose a target language. You get one Word file in that language.
Sources
- Notability Support: Handwriting and Math Conversion, accessed November 6, 2026
- Notability Support: Sharing Notes, accessed November 6, 2026
By Matt Mountain ·