How do I write in Apple Notes on iPad?

You can write in Apple Notes on your iPad using either an Apple Pencil or your finger. Here's how:

Using Apple Pencil or Your Finger

Open the Notes app: Locate and tap the Notes app icon on your iPad's home screen or in the App Library.
Create or open a note:
- To start a new note, tap the "New Note" icon (usually a square with a pencil).
- To write in an existing note, find it in the list and tap to open it.
Start writing/drawing:
- With Apple Pencil: Simply start writing or drawing directly on the note. The Notes app automatically detects the Apple Pencil.
- With Your Finger: Tap the "Markup" button (a pencil icon, typically in the toolbar at the bottom of the screen). This activates the drawing tools.
Use the Markup Tools (if applicable): When using your finger, the Markup toolbar provides options for:
- Pen: For handwriting and drawing lines.
- Pencil: For sketching with lighter strokes.
- Marker: For highlighting text.
- Eraser: To remove unwanted marks. Tap again for pixel eraser.
- Lasso Tool: To select and move sections of your writing or drawing.
- Ruler: To draw straight lines.
- Color Picker: To change the color of your writing/drawing.
- Add: Add text, shapes, signatures, stickers, and descriptions.
Customize your tools: Tap on a tool in the Markup toolbar to adjust its thickness, opacity, and other properties.
Finish and Save: Your writing/drawing is automatically saved to the note as you work. There's no need to manually save. Simply close the note when you're done.

Double-Tap Apple Pencil: If you're using a 2nd generation Apple Pencil, you can double-tap the side of the pencil to quickly switch between the current tool and the eraser (this behavior can be customized in iPad Settings).
Palm Rejection: The iPad's palm rejection technology should prevent accidental marks from your hand while writing with the Apple Pencil.
Searchable Handwriting: In most cases, the Notes app can recognize and index your handwriting, making it searchable later.
iCloud Sync: If you have iCloud Notes enabled, your notes (including handwriting) will automatically sync across your Apple devices.