If 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 easily.

What is Handwriting in Windows 11?

Starting with Windows 11 build 23481, Microsoft improved handwriting support. Now, you can write directly in any box where you normally type text using your pen or finger. This is called Shell Handwriting.

Right now, this feature works with English (U.S.) only, but Microsoft might add more languages later.

How to Turn Handwriting On or Off

Follow these simple steps to enable or disable handwriting:

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

4. Scroll down to Handwriting, then find Use your handwriting to enter text and click to open that section.
5. Turn on the switch for Use your handwriting to enter text under Shell Handwriting.
6. If you want to turn it off later, just switch the toggle to Off.

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

Summary

• Easy to enable: You can quickly turn handwriting on or off from Settings under Bluetooth & devices > Pen & Windows Ink.
• Works with pen or touch: Use your pen or finger to write in places you normally type.
• Currently supports English (U.S.): More languages may come in the future.

More Information

For official details, visit Microsoft’s blog post.