Extract Text From Images in Windows 11: Step-by-Step Guide

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How to Extract Text From Images on Windows 11​

Have you ever found yourself staring at a beautiful image that just so happens to contain a mountain of text? Or maybe you’ve received a scanned document that you desperately wish could be a simple text file? With Windows 11, there's no need to enter a lengthy retyping session; instead, you can harness the power of Optical Character Recognition (OCR) technology to extract text from images with ease. This guide will explore several methods you can use to extract text from images on your Windows 11 device.

What is OCR?​

Before we delve into the tools, let's tackle the big question: what is OCR? Optical Character Recognition is a technology that converts different types of documents, such as scanned paper documents, PDFs, or images taken by a digital camera, into editable and searchable data. As a Windows user, this means you can transform images of text into digital text that can be easily manipulated, searched, and stored.

Built-In Windows Tools​

1. Microsoft OneNote​

OneNote isn’t just a space for note-taking; it comes equipped with robust OCR capabilities! Here’s how to utilize it:

1. Open OneNote – Start Microsoft OneNote on your Windows 11 device.
2. Insert Image – Drag and drop the image or use the "Insert" tab and select “Pictures.”
3. Copy Text from Picture – Right-click on the inserted image and select “Copy Text from Picture.” OneNote will process the image, retrieving any text it recognizes.
4. Paste the Text – Now you can paste the copied text into your notes or any text editor.

2. Snipping Tool​

Windows 11's Snipping Tool has also been updated with OCR capabilities:

1. Open Snipping Tool – Search for "Snipping Tool" in your Windows search bar.
2. Take a Snip – Use the tool to take a picture of the text you want to extract.
3. Copy Text – Select the "Copy text" button that appears after you create the snip.
4. Paste the Text – Paste your copied text wherever you need it!

Third-Party Apps​

If these built-in options aren't quite cutting it for you, fear not! There are plenty of third-party applications that excel at OCR.

3. Adobe Scan​

Adobe Scan is a mobile application that allows you to scan documents directly. You can then transfer these scans to your Windows 11 computer.

1. Download Adobe Scan on your mobile device and scan your documents.
2. Save as PDF – Adobe Scan saves your documents as PDFs.
3. Transfer to Windows – Move the PDF files to your Windows device.
4. Extract Text – Adobe Acrobat Reader’s built-in tools can extract text from the PDFs.

4. Online OCR Services​

There are also many online OCR services, where you upload your image, and they provide the text. Some popular options include:

• OnlineOCR.net
• FreeOCR
• OCR Space

Simply upload your image, and the site will convert it for you. However, always be cautious with sensitive documents; uploading personal information to third-party sites can pose security risks.

Summary​

Windows 11 makes extracting text from images a breeze with a variety of tools at your disposal. Whether utilizing built-in applications like OneNote and the Snipping Tool or venturing into third-party solutions, you have the power to convert images into text with just a few clicks.
So, the next time you encounter an image filled with valuable text, remember these tips to efficiently convert it to digital format, avoiding the tedious manual retyping altogether. Happy text-extracting!

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Converting images to text can save time and increase productivity. If you have questions or need further clarification on specific methods, feel free to ask in the comments below!
Source: How-To Geek How to Extract Text From Images on Windows 11