How to Enable or Disable Handwriting in Windows 11

Do you have a Windows 11 device with a pen or touch screen? You can write by hand instead of typing. This guide will show you how to turn handwriting on or off in just a few clicks.

What is Handwriting in Windows 11?

Starting with Windows 11 build 23481, Microsoft made handwriting better on Windows 11. Now you can write directly in any box where you normally type text. You can use your pen or your finger. This feature is called Shell Handwriting.

Right now, this feature only works with English (U.S.). Microsoft may add more languages in the future.

Why Use Handwriting?

Handwriting is helpful if you prefer writing by hand. It’s also useful for people who use pen input devices or tablets with Windows 11.

How to Turn Handwriting On or Off

1. Click the Start menu button. Then click Settings. You can also press Windows key + I on your keyboard to open Settings quickly.
2. In the Settings window, click Bluetooth & devices from the left side menu.
3. Look on the right side and click Pen & Windows Ink.

4. Scroll down to the Handwriting section. Click on Use your handwriting to enter text to open that section.
5. Turn on the switch for Use your handwriting to enter text under Shell Handwriting.

What happens when you turn it on? You can now write by hand in any text box on your computer. Your handwriting will be converted to text.

If you want to turn it off later, just switch the toggle to Off.

6. When you’re done, you can close the Settings app.

Summary

• Easy to enable: You can quickly turn handwriting on or off from Settings. Go to Bluetooth & devices > Pen & Windows Ink.
• Works with pen or touch: Use your pen or finger to write in places where you normally type.
• English (U.S.) only for now: This feature currently supports English (U.S.). More languages may be added in the future.

More Information

For official details, visit Microsoft’s blog post.