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How to Fix Random Dots and Lines in OneNote Using Apple Pencil

Kushani Nimanthika Sep 30, 2026 868 views

Question details

The user is experiencing an issue where random dots and lines appear on the screen when trying to write or draw.

How to Fix Random Dots and Lines in OneNote Using Apple Pencil

Product: Microsoft OneNote
Device & OS: iPadOS
Scenario: Taking handwritten notes or drawing inside the OneNote app using an Apple Pencil.
Observed behavior: The app randomly creates unintended dots and lines while writing. Reconnecting Bluetooth only provides temporary relief, and the problem is isolated specifically to OneNote.

Before you start

Before troubleshooting the software, verify that your Apple Pencil is fully charged and that the tip is screwed on tightly, as a loose tip can cause inconsistent touch registration.

Solution 1Recommended

Update iPadOS and OneNote to the Latest Versions

Outdated software can cause input compatibility issues between the Apple Pencil and specific apps like OneNote.

Microsoft and Apple frequently release patches to fix stylus input bugs. Ensuring both your operating system and the app are fully up to date is the most effective way to resolve app-specific glitches.

Update iPadOS

Open the 'Settings' app on your iPad, navigate to 'General', and tap 'Software Update'. If an update is available, tap 'Download and Install'.

Update Microsoft OneNote

Open the 'App Store', tap your profile icon in the top right corner, and scroll down to your pending updates. Locate Microsoft OneNote and tap 'Update'.

Restart and test

Once both updates are complete, restart your iPad. Open OneNote and begin writing with your Apple Pencil to see if the random dots and lines persist.

Update iPadOS and OneNote to the Latest Versions

Automatic Updates: You can enable automatic app updates in the App Store settings to prevent similar compatibility issues in the future.

Solution 2

Isolate the Hardware by Testing Finger Input

Determine if the issue is strictly related to the Apple Pencil hardware or a general touch input bug within the OneNote app.

Free Microsoft Office alternative

Try WPS Office for Seamless Note-Taking on iPad

If OneNote continues to give you hardware compatibility issues, consider switching to WPS Office. It offers a lightweight, highly compatible PDF reader and editor that flawlessly supports Apple Pencil for smooth handwriting and annotations without random glitches.

1. Download the app: Search for WPS Office in the iPad App Store and download the free application.
2. Open your document: Launch WPS Office and open a new document or an existing PDF to start taking notes.
3. Start writing: Select the Pen tool from the top toolbar and begin writing smoothly with your Apple Pencil.

Fully compatible with Microsoft Office formats including Word, Excel, and PowerPointSmooth and responsive Apple Pencil support for PDF annotations and note-takingLightweight app size that runs perfectly on both older and newer iPad modelsFree to use with a familiar, easy-to-navigate interface for quick migration

microsoft office alternative - wps office

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does my Apple Pencil glitch only in OneNote?

App-specific glitches often occur due to how a particular app renders touch and stylus input. OneNote may have a caching issue or a temporary bug in its drawing engine that has not yet been optimized for your current iPadOS version.

Can a worn-out Apple Pencil tip cause random lines?

Yes. If the Apple Pencil tip is worn down to the internal metal or is slightly unscrewed, it can cause erratic behavior, random dots, and disconnected lines across any drawing application.

Does unpairing and repairing the Apple Pencil permanently fix the drawing issue?

Reconnecting Bluetooth often provides only a temporary fix. Because the issue is usually software-related, a permanent solution typically requires updating both the OneNote application and iPadOS to their most recent versions.

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