Support
Verse by Hand is an iPad app for copying Scripture by hand with Apple Pencil. It requires an iPad running iPadOS 17 or later, and an Apple Pencil to write.
Contact
Bug, question, or idea? Email ysuh@dotollabs.com. Please include your iPad model and iPadOS version, and what you were doing when the problem happened. I read every message and reply as soon as I can.
Common questions
Why can't I select a verse or write with my finger?
This is by design. In the reading area, only the Apple Pencil selects verses and writes; a finger only scrolls. That way resting your hand or scrolling can never change your work by accident. In the Library, Settings, and the toolbar, your finger works normally.
How do I start writing?
Tap the Library button (top left) to choose a book and chapter. Tap a verse with the Pencil to select it, then write on the ruled lines. Tap the Next Verse arrow, or just start writing on the next verse.
Will my writing sync to my other iPads?
Yes, through your own iCloud account. Both iPads need to be signed in to the same Apple Account with iCloud turned on for the app, and they need a network connection. Sync can take a minute or two. If something doesn't appear, check that your iCloud storage isn't full, then reopen the app on both iPads.
How do I back up my writing?
Open Settings and choose Back Up. When the share sheet appears, save the file to Files or iCloud Drive, not just the share sheet, so it survives even if the app is deleted. Restore brings a backup back on this or another iPad. Restore replaces everything currently in the app, so back up first if you're unsure.
How do I erase everything?
Settings → Erase All Notes & Images. This permanently deletes your notes, drawings, images, highlights, bookmarks, and handwritten verses, and it can't be undone. If iCloud sync is on, the deletion syncs to your other iPads too.
Why does Convert to Text only work for some translations?
Handwriting recognition currently reads English handwriting, so Convert to Text is offered for the English translations, not the Korean one.
My reminders don't appear.
Turn on Daily Reminder in Settings and allow notifications when asked. If you didn't see the prompt, notifications may be off for the app in iOS Settings → Notifications.
Bible translations
- King James Version (1769). Public domain.
- American Standard Version (1901). Public domain.
- World English Bible. Public domain.
- Young's Literal Translation (1898). Public domain.
- 개역한글 (Korean Revised Version, 1961), 대한성서공회 (Korean Bible Society). Public domain.
Terms and disclaimer
Verse by Hand is provided free of charge and “as is,” without warranties of any kind, to the extent the law allows. Apple's standard Licensed Application End User License Agreement applies to your use of the app.
Keep your own backups. iCloud sync is not a backup: a deletion syncs to your other iPads too. Use Settings → Back Up regularly and save the file to Files or iCloud Drive.
Bible text accuracy. The translations are public-domain editions reproduced from public sources. They may contain errors, and verse numbering can differ between translations. Please check a printed Bible if accuracy matters, for example for study, teaching, or publication.
To the extent permitted by law, I am not liable for lost data or other damages arising from use of the app. Nothing here limits any rights you have under the law that cannot be waived.