How to Take Handwritten Notes on iPad

Step by step

1. 30 sec

   Create a new note

   Open the Notes app from your Home Screen or Dock. Tap the Compose icon in the top right corner to initiate a blank document.

   Note: Use the double-tap gesture on your Apple Pencil on the Lock Screen to instantly open a new note.
2. 1 min

   Activate handwriting mode

   Tap the Markup icon, represented by a pen tip inside a circle, located in the toolbar. Select your preferred tool: Pen, Highlighter, or Pencil from the tool palette.

   Note: Tap the selected tool a second time to adjust line thickness and opacity.
3. 2 min

   Write and adjust

   Begin writing on the canvas with your Apple Pencil. To correct errors, select the Eraser tool and draw over the specific strokes you wish to remove.

   Note: Use the Pixel Eraser setting for precise removal of individual marks versus the Object Eraser for entire strokes.
4. 1 min

   Convert handwriting to text

   Tap and hold your handwritten note to reveal the selection menu, then choose Select All. Tap the text again and select Copy as Text from the pop-up menu, then paste it into your note or another application.

   Note: Alternatively, tap the Lasso tool to circle specific segments before selecting Copy as Text.
5. 30 sec

   Lock and save your note

   Tap the Share icon to export your note as a PDF or image file. Tap Done to save your progress and return to the primary Notes view.

   Note: You can add a folder location by tapping the Move icon in the Share sheet.