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Fix OneNote for iPad Switching to Text Mode and Opening Keyboard

Maira Mehtab Sep 27, 2026 873 views

Question details

Users experience an interruption where OneNote automatically opens the on-screen keyboard and changes the input mode while they are trying to draw or write.

Product: Microsoft OneNote
Device & OS: iPadOS
Scenario: Taking handwritten notes, drawing, or erasing in the OneNote app using an Apple Pencil.
Observed behavior: The app unexpectedly switches from drawing or erasing mode to text mode and forces the on-screen keyboard to pop up on the iPad.

Before you start

Ensure your Apple Pencil is fully charged and securely paired via Bluetooth, and save any unsynced notes before modifying your iPad settings.

Solution 1Recommended

Disable Apple Pencil Scribble Feature

Turning off the iPadOS Scribble feature prevents the system from misinterpreting your drawing strokes as text input, which usually stops the keyboard from appearing.

The 'Scribble' feature in iPadOS is designed to automatically convert handwriting into typed text. When active, it can conflict with OneNote's native drawing tools, causing the app to switch to text mode unexpectedly.

Open iPad Settings

Navigate to your iPad's home screen and open the 'Settings' app.

Access Apple Pencil Settings

Scroll down the left-hand menu and tap on 'Apple Pencil'.

Turn Off Scribble

Locate the 'Scribble' toggle switch and turn it off. Return to OneNote to check if you can draw without interruption.

Quick Fix: Disabling Scribble is the most effective way to resolve Apple Pencil conflicts in third-party note-taking apps.

Solution 2

Disable Keyboard Shortcuts and Update iPadOS

Adjusting your virtual keyboard settings and ensuring your system is up to date can resolve underlying software glitches triggering the pop-up.

Solution 3

Use Floating Keyboard Mode and Submit Feedback

If the bug persists, using a floating keyboard minimizes visual obstruction while you wait for Microsoft to release a patch.

Free Microsoft Office alternative

Try WPS Office for Smooth Document Annotation on iPad

If unresolved bugs in Microsoft OneNote are disrupting your note-taking workflow, WPS Office offers a stable, free, and highly compatible alternative. Enjoy seamless Apple Pencil integration for PDF annotation and document editing without unexpected keyboard interruptions.

1. Download WPS Office: Get WPS Office for free from the Apple App Store on your iPad.
2. Open Your Document: Import your PDF or create a new document directly within the app.
3. Start Annotating: Select the 'Draw' or 'Annotate' tools to easily take notes and sketch with your Apple Pencil.

Fully compatible with Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and PDF formats.Smooth Apple Pencil integration for annotating PDFs and documents without glitchy pop-ups.Lightweight and free to use, saving valuable storage space on your iPad.Familiar and intuitive interface makes migrating from Microsoft Office completely effortless.

microsoft office alternative - wps office

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does my iPad keyboard keep popping up when I use my Apple Pencil in OneNote?

This typically occurs because the iPadOS 'Scribble' feature is trying to convert your handwriting into text. When OneNote detects this, it may automatically switch from drawing mode to text mode, triggering the on-screen keyboard.

Can I permanently hide the on-screen keyboard while drawing?

While you cannot completely remove the system keyboard, turning off the Scribble feature in your iPad's Apple Pencil settings is the best way to stop it from randomly appearing while you draw.

Will updating my iPad fix this OneNote glitch?

It is highly possible. Apple and Microsoft frequently release updates to patch compatibility issues between iPadOS and the OneNote app. It is recommended to keep both your iPadOS and your App Store apps fully updated.

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