How to Use the Pen to Erase Ink in Windows 11
You can erase digital ink in Windows 11 by flipping your stylus over and using its top as an eraser.
This feature mimics the functionality of a physical pencil eraser, allowing you to quickly correct mistakes directly on your screen. For example, the Surface Pen and many compatible third-party styluses support this intuitive gesture.
Simply turn your pen, and the top will activate the eraser tool, letting you remove unwanted ink marks with a gentle swipe.
Flip your digital pen over and rub the screen to erase ink. Ensure the “Use the top of the pen to erase ink” option is enabled in Settings under Pen & Windows ink.
How to set up the eraser in Settings
You can turn on the pen eraser feature in Windows 11 right from the Settings app.
- Open the Windows Settings app by clicking the Start menu or pressing Windows key + I.
- Click on Bluetooth & devices in the left menu.
- Select the Pen & Windows ink tile on the right.
- Click to expand Additional pen settings.
- Check the box that says Use the top of the pen to erase ink when it’s available.
Close the Settings app when you are finished.
Mastering the ‘Scratch Out’ Gesture
If your pen doesn’t have a physical eraser, you can still erase ink in Windows 11 using the ‘Scratch Out’ gesture.
Troubleshooting Pen Connectivity
If your pen eraser is not working, try these steps:
- Check Battery: A low battery often disables the top button first.
- Re-pair: Go to Bluetooth settings, remove the device, and pair it again.
- Update Drivers: Open Device Manager, find your Human Interface Devices, and update the pen driver.
How to set up the eraser using the Registry Editor
You can also set up the pen eraser in Windows 11 using the Registry Editor, but this method needs admin rights and careful changes.
- Open the Windows Registry by searching for it in the Start menu.
- Go to this location:
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Wisp\Pen\SysEventParameters - If you do not see the
SysEventParametersfolder, right-click the Pen folder, select New, and create a key namedSysEventParameters.
- Right-click in the empty space on the right side, select New, then select DWORD (32-bit) Value. Name it
EraseEnable. - Double-click
EraseEnable, set the Base to Decimal, and enter1in the Value data box.
- Restart your computer to save the changes.
Reference: Microsoft Support
Summary
In Windows 11, you can erase ink using your pen’s physical eraser, the ‘Scratch Out’ gesture, or by setting it up in Settings or the Registry Editor.
Why is my pen eraser not working in 🪟 Windows 11?
Your pen eraser may not work due to low battery, outdated drivers, or incorrect settings. Ensure the ‘Use the top of the pen to erase’ option is enabled in Settings. If it still fails, try unpairing and re-pairing the device via Bluetooth to refresh the connection.
Can I customize the side button of my pen to erase?
Yes, you can customize the side button. Navigate to Settings > Bluetooth & devices > Pen & Windows ink. Under the ‘Pen shortcuts’ section, you can assign the side button to perform specific actions, including acting as an eraser or opening your favorite note-taking app.
Does the scratch-out gesture work in all 🪟 Windows 11 apps?
The scratch-out gesture is supported in most native Windows 11 apps that utilize Windows Ink, such as Microsoft Journal, Sticky Notes, and Whiteboard. However, support in third-party applications depends on whether the developer has enabled Windows Ink integration within their specific software environment.
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About the Author
Richard
Tech Writer, IT Professional
Richard, a writer for Geek Rewind, is a tech enthusiast who loves breaking down complex IT topics into simple, easy-to-understand ideas. With years of hands-on experience in system administration and enterprise IT operations, he’s developed a knack for offering practical tips and solutions. Richard aims to make technology more accessible and actionable. He's deeply committed to the Geek Rewind community, always ready to answer questions and engage in discussions.
[…] Windows lets you pair the pen with your device via Bluetooth. Once your pen is connected, you can use it to write or click on your screen. You can also customize your pen settings, such as choosing your writing hand or what happens when you hold down the pen’s shortcut button. […]