How can I stop the iPad onscreen keyboard from appearing?

If using the Pencil and the keyboard won't stay hidden, I can't get any work done. I don't want the keyboard to determine when I need it because I usually don't. How can I shut off that screen hog PERMANENTLY until specifically, intentionally commanded by me to appear?



[Re-Titled by Moderator]

iPad Pro, iPadOS 18

Posted on Feb 17, 2025 07:11 PM

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Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Posted on Feb 18, 2025 01:58 AM

Perhaps if you can describe the Apps with which you are having difficulty - and in what circumstances the keyboard may appear - contributors may be better able to offer appropriate guidance.


Perhaps you are attempting to markup a PDF, a photo, or something else. Are you attempting freeform input, or using Scribble to convert handwriting to text?


There are so many ways that you may be using your Pencil - and many potential settings that may affect behaviour in specific circumstances.

3 replies
Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Feb 18, 2025 01:58 AM in response to NotfanB

Perhaps if you can describe the Apps with which you are having difficulty - and in what circumstances the keyboard may appear - contributors may be better able to offer appropriate guidance.


Perhaps you are attempting to markup a PDF, a photo, or something else. Are you attempting freeform input, or using Scribble to convert handwriting to text?


There are so many ways that you may be using your Pencil - and many potential settings that may affect behaviour in specific circumstances.

Feb 18, 2025 05:47 PM in response to LotusPilot

Thanks for responding.

The problem applies anywhere but most frustratingly while using such apps as the Apple supplied Reminders app. I use Scribble but can write only a few words before the keyboard pops up, interrupting my work, hogging the screen and shifting the line where I was writing. Of course, I know how to make it go away once it rises, but why should I have to do so?

I want to turn off the keyboard until I go into Settings and instruct the keyboard to appear when needed. The Pencil is expensive, and I'd like to use it uninterrupted by the keyboard.

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How can I stop the iPad onscreen keyboard from appearing?

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