How to Extract and Copy TEXT from Images and PDF Docs, using Built-in OCR Tool on Windows 11 PC

Extracting text from images and PDFs can be a valuable skill, especially when dealing with infographics, screenshots, or documents that are in image format. Windows 11 has a built-in tool known as the Snipping Tool, which not only allows you to take screenshots but also features Optical Character Recognition (OCR) capabilities. Hereโ€™s a step-by-step guide on how to use this tool effectively. There's no need for any image-to-text converter!

Extract and Copy Text from Images, PDF using Windows 11 Built-in OCR Tool

Step 1: Launch the Snipping Tool

To begin, open the Start menu and type "Snipping Tool" in the search bar. Click on the application to launch it. This tool will be your main resource for capturing screenshots and extracting text.

Extract and Copy Text from Images, PDF using Windows 11 Snipping Tool

Step 2: Select the Snipping Mode

Once the Snipping Tool is open, you can choose the rectangle mode by selecting it from the available options.

Click on the "New" button to initiate a new snip.

Step 3: Capture the Desired Area

With the rectangle mode activated, use your mouse to select the area of the screen where the image containing the text is located. This could be an image from a website or one saved in your File Explorer.

Optional: Extract text from an online infographic image

If you're trying to extract text from an online infographic or a complex image, itโ€™s crucial that the text is clearly legible. To ensure clarity, right-click on the image to open it in a new tab. Then, access the three-dot menu in your browser and zoom in to enlarge the image. After enlarging, use the Snipping Tool to capture a screenshot of the clearer, larger image.

Step 4: Edit and Extract the Text

After capturing the screenshot, it will automatically open in the Snipping Toolโ€™s editing window. If the image does not pop up immediately, check your Notification Center (lower right corner) for the snip.

Extract and Copy Text from Images, PDF using Windows 11 Built-in OCR Tool

Look for the option labelled โ€˜Text Actionsโ€™ in the editing window. Click on it, and the Snipping Tool will analyze the image and convert the text into editable format.

Step 5: Copy and Paste the Extracted Text

Once the text is extracted, you can choose to copy all of it or select specific portions. Right-click to copy the desired text, and then paste it into any document or text editor, such as Microsoft Word.

The Snipping Tool in Windows 11 is versatile and can extract text even from images with 3D letters, making it a robust tool for various applications.

Frequently Asked Questions

What types of images can I extract text from?

You can extract text from various types of images, including screenshots, infographics, and photos. The text must be clear and legible for optimal OCR performance.

What should I do if the text extraction is inaccurate?

If the text extraction is not accurate, ensure that the image is in focus and has a high contrast between the text and background. You can also try enlarging the image before capturing the screenshot.

Are there any alternatives to Snipping Tool for text extraction?

Yes, there are several alternatives such as Microsoft OneNote, Adobe Acrobat, or third-party OCR software that can also extract text from images.

By following these steps and tips, you can efficiently extract and copy text from images, making your workflow smoother and more productive.

More Resources

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Irfan Hayat

As the Founder and CEO of DOZRO and various other ventures, I bring a wealth of diverse life experiences to the forefront. At heart, I am a passionate tech enthusiast. Feel free to explore our range of Pro Services, such as website and graphics design, SEO, and video editing, with confidence.

https://www.dozro.com/irfan-hayat
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