Manually copying out information from images isn’t just arduous, it’s time-consuming. The process may seem mundane, and repetitive, and can steal time away from more valuable tasks. Thankfully, there are text to image tools that can do the heavy work of extracting information through optical character recognition (OCR).
These OCR tools work with versatile image forms, including images of handwritten notes. They can be used by busy people (students and professionals alike) for many purposes. In this guide, you’ll learn how OCR works, the best tools for extracting text from images, and tips to improve accuracy.
How Does (Text From Images) OCR Work?
1. Image Processing
Before recognizing text, OCR software enhances the image to improve readability. It adjusts contrast, removes background noise, and aligns skewed text. This makes the characters distinguishable from the background.
2. Character Recognition
After image processing, the software will analyze the image and search for characters that resemble letters, numbers, and symbols. It uses feature detection algorithms to recognize individual strokes and curves. Also, the software uses pattern matching to compare the image segments to its database of already-known characters.
3. Text Extraction
Once the AI tool identifies the characters, it will convert them into machine-readable text. It will divide the words into workable sections and sentences and take out non-text elements that can interfere. These are things like decorative fonts or shadows.
4. Formatting and Output
The extracted text is then formatted into a readable structure. That means adding the required spacing, line breaks, and punctuation. The final output can be saved in multiple formats (.txt, .doc, and .pdf) for easy editing and sharing.
Best Tools for Extracting Text from Images
1. Imagetotext.info
Imagetotext.info is a free online OCR tool. The text extraction process is simple and it caters to multiple languages. Imagetotext.info is flexible and works with both printed and handwritten texts. Since it runs online, it eliminates the time needed to download and install software. Therefore, it’s great for quick tasks.
Imagetotext.info also does other conversions. It can convert PDFs to Word, JPG to text, image to PDF and many others.
2. Jpgtotext.com
Jpgtotext.com specializes in extracting text from JPG images. JPG is one of the most used image formats. By narrowing down on this, Jpgtotext.com has optimized its OCR algorithms to handle the unique characteristics and even limitations of JPGs like compression artifacts and varying resolutions. This tool also has a fast processing speed and does not require sign-ups.
3. Imagetotext.io
Imagetotext.io is an AI text-to-image tool that is very accurate. It allows multiple image formats, including PNG and JPG. It’s very versatile and can recognize text from even low-quality images. Therefore, it is a great option for where image clarity is an issue. Imagetotext.io can also extract texts in other languages.
4. Prepostseo OCR Tool
The highlight of the Prepostseo OCR tool is batch processing. This tool allows you to cut down time by multiple simultaneous extraction processes. It also detects texts in seconds and converts the text into editable formats.
Professionals who work with digital documents will benefit significantly from this feature. This tool also is integrated with other Prepostseo tools.
How to Extract Text from an Image
Many text from image tools follow a similar process:
1. Upload the Image
Choose the file from your device or paste a URL. Some text from image tools, such as Imagetotext.info and Jpgtotext.com, allow drag-and-drop.
2. Select Language & Format
Some tools allow you to pick the language and text format before processing. For example, Imagetotext.io supports multiple languages, while Prepostseo OCR Tool can format extracted text into structured documents, including PDF and Word files.
3. Run the OCR Process
Click the “Extract” button and let the software process the image.
4. Review & Copy the Text
Once processed, check the text for accuracy. Some tools offer built-in editing features to correct mistakes.
5. Download or Copy
Save it in your desired format. There are usually a few options to pick from.
Benefits of Extracting Text from Images
1. Saves Time and Effort
Manually typing text from an image is time-consuming. A text from image tool will do it in far less time.
2. Improves Accessibility
OCR helps make text accessible for visually impaired people. When the text is extracted from an image, a text-to-speech tool can transform the text into audio.
3. Boosts Productivity
Large volumes of crucial information can be extracted from text quickly, leading to many benefits. Workers can spend less time on tasks and businesses will get lower overhead costs.
5. Enhances Data Accuracy
Text from image tools can reduce errors. Although these tools are not perfect and human oversight is still needed, human workers can concentrate efforts on identifying mistakes rather than manually typing out a text.
Factors That Affect OCR Accuracy
| Factor | Impact on OCR Accuracy |
| Image Quality | Blurry or pixelated images reduce accuracy. |
| Text Font & Size | Simple fonts are easier to recognize than decorative ones. |
| Background Noise | Cluttered, distracting backgrounds can confuse OCR tools. |
| Language & Characters | Some languages (like Thai) are harder to process because of their special characters. |
| Lighting | Shadows and uneven lighting can affect text readability. |
Tip: Use clear, high-resolution images with simple fonts to improve accuracy.
Common Challenges and How to Fix Them
1. Blurry Images
Low-resolution images can lead to incorrect text extraction. As a rule of thumb, the minimum resolution should be 300 DPI.
Solution: Either a higher resolution image or adjust focus when taking a picture.
2. Handwritten Text Errors
Some tools may struggle with handwritten text due to the peculiarity of each handwriting style.
Solution: If you must use handwritten text, ensure the characters are legible and well-spaced. Also, the images should be high resolution.
Alternatively, use advanced tools like Imagetotext.info which specializes in handwriting recognition.
3. Wrong Formatting
Format elements like line breaks and spaces may be misplaced during extraction.
Solution: Manually adjust formatting after extraction.
4. Background Interference
Background clutter can confuse OCR tools, leading to the addition of unnecessary elements.
Solution: Remove background noise using a tool like Remove bg before running it through a text from image tool.
The Bottom Line
Text from image tools has made information extraction very easy. These OCR tools can help digitize old documents, translate foreign text, or copy notes, without the necessary time and effort.
FAQs
1. Can AI Extract Text From an Image?
Yes, AI can extract text from an image using Optical Character Recognition (OCR) technology. These tools scan images, identify characters, and convert them into editable text. The popular ones are Imagetotext.info, Jpgtotext.com, and Prepostseo OCR Tool.
2. What Is the AI Tool for Removing Text From Image?
An AI tool like Fotor can remove text from images by analyzing the background and filling in the space. Generative Fill AI tools like Inpaint can do this as well.
3. How to Extract Information From an Image Using AI?
To extract information from an image, follow these steps:
- Upload the image to an AI text from image tool like Imagetotext.io.
- Choose the language and format settings.
- Click the ‘extract’ button to start the OCR process.
- Review the extracted text for accuracy.
- Copy or download the text in a preferred format.
