How to Copy Text from Image in Windows 11
Copying text from an image in Windows 11 is a breeze thanks to the built-in tools and some handy third-party applications. Here’s the quick rundown: use the Snipping Tool to capture the image, open OneNote or another OCR (Optical Character Recognition) application, and then extract the text. Voila! You’re ready to paste the text wherever you need it.
Step-by-Step Tutorial on How to Copy Text from Image in Windows 11
Alright, let’s break it down so you can follow along and get that text out of an image like a pro.
Step 1: Open Snipping Tool
First, click on the Start menu and type "Snipping Tool" to open the application.
The Snipping Tool is your go-to for capturing any part of your screen. Once it’s open, you can choose from various snip types like rectangular, free-form, and more.
Step 2: Capture the Image
Next, select the portion of the screen you want to capture by clicking and dragging your cursor over the desired area.
After capturing the image, it will appear in the Snipping Tool window. You can save this image or directly copy it to your clipboard for the next step.
Step 3: Open OneNote
Open OneNote by clicking on the Start menu and typing "OneNote". Select the application to launch it.
OneNote is a versatile tool that includes a built-in OCR feature. This is where the magic happens for extracting text from your image.
Step 4: Insert the Image
In OneNote, go to the Insert tab and select "Picture" to add your captured image.
Once you insert the image into a OneNote page, it’s ready to be analyzed and converted into text.
Step 5: Copy Text from Image
Right-click on the inserted image and select "Copy Text from Picture".
OneNote will automatically scan the image and extract any readable text. You can now paste this text into any document or application you wish.
After completing these steps, the text from your image will be extracted and ready for use. You can paste it into a Word document, email, or any other text-based application.
Tips on How to Copy Text from Image in Windows 11
- Use Clear Images: The clearer the image, the better the OCR tool will perform. Blurry or low-resolution images might lead to errors.
- Edit After Extraction: Always review and edit the extracted text for any mistakes, especially if the font in the image was fancy or distorted.
- Explore Other OCR Tools: Apart from OneNote, you can use other OCR applications like Google Keep or Adobe Acrobat for different features and performance.
- Keep Software Updated: Ensure your Windows and applications like OneNote are up-to-date for optimal performance and the latest features.
- Privacy Matters: Be cautious while extracting text from sensitive images. Ensure the software you use is trustworthy and secure.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other applications instead of OneNote for OCR?
Yes, there are various OCR applications such as Google Keep, Adobe Acrobat, and even some online tools that can extract text from images.
Is the Snipping Tool the only way to capture an image in Windows 11?
No, you can also use tools like Snip & Sketch or even the Print Screen button on your keyboard to capture images.
Does the text extraction work with handwritten notes?
It depends on the clarity and legibility of the handwriting. OCR tools generally work better with printed text.
Can I extract text from PDFs using the same method?
Yes, you can use OCR tools to extract text from PDFs as well. Adobe Acrobat has built-in OCR capabilities for this purpose.
Is there any cost involved in using OneNote for OCR?
OneNote is free to use, and its OCR features are included without any additional cost.
Summary
- Open Snipping Tool
- Capture the Image
- Open OneNote
- Insert the Image
- Copy Text from Image
Conclusion
Copying text from an image in Windows 11 is a simple yet powerful trick to have up your sleeve. Whether it’s for capturing meeting notes from a whiteboard photo, extracting text from a scanned document, or just grabbing some text from an infographic, the process is straightforward and efficient.
By following the steps outlined above and making use of the tips provided, you can ensure a smooth and successful text extraction. Remember, having clear images and keeping your software updated are key to getting the best results. So go on, give it a shot and enhance your productivity with this nifty Windows 11 feature! If you’re curious about more advanced OCR tools or have any other tech-related questions, keep exploring and learning.
Matt Jacobs has been working as an IT consultant for small businesses since receiving his Master’s degree in 2003. While he still does some consulting work, his primary focus now is on creating technology support content for SupportYourTech.com.
His work can be found on many websites and focuses on topics such as Microsoft Office, Apple devices, Android devices, Photoshop, and more.