GoodNotes 5

Overview of GoodNotes 5

GoodNotes 5 is one of the most popular note-taking apps designed specifically for iPad and Mac users who value organization, handwriting, and productivity. Known for its intuitive interface and powerful annotation tools, GoodNotes 5 transforms your Apple device into a fully functional digital notebook, ideal for students, educators, professionals, and creatives alike. Whether you're taking lecture notes, planning projects, or brainstorming ideas, this app delivers a seamless handwriting experience with the flexibility of digital files.

With native support for Apple Pencil, GoodNotes 5 mimics the natural feel of writing on paper while offering advanced features like search within handwritten notes, PDF annotation, and iCloud syncing across devices. The app is optimized for macOS, ensuring smooth performance and integration with other Apple productivity tools like Shortcuts, Files, and Spotlight.

Key Features That Set GoodNotes 5 Apart

One of the standout features of GoodNotes 5 is its handwriting recognition and searchability. Unlike many note-taking apps, GoodNotes allows users to search for specific words even if the notes were handwritten. This makes retrieving information fast and efficient—perfect for students reviewing class notes or professionals scanning meeting minutes.

The live transcript feature, when used with supported devices, enables real-time conversion of spoken words into text during recordings, linking audio to written notes—a powerful tool for lecture capture or interviews. This audio-sync functionality lets you tap on any part of your notes to replay the corresponding audio snippet.

GoodNotes 5 also excels in PDF and document annotation. Users can import PDFs, textbooks, or worksheets and mark them up with highlighters, text boxes, shapes, and typed text. Teachers can grade assignments digitally, while students can complete homework directly in the app.

Another major advantage is the hierarchical organizational system: notebooks > sections > pages. This structure makes it easy to manage large volumes of content. Each notebook can have customizable covers and templates, including graph paper, lined paper, or custom-designed layouts—ideal for bullet journaling or project planning.

iCloud sync ensures that all your notes are backed up and accessible across your iPhone, iPad, and Mac, making GoodNotes 5 a top choice for cross-device note-taking on Apple ecosystem.

Tips and Tricks for Getting the Most Out of GoodNotes 5

To maximize productivity, use keyboard shortcuts on Mac—such as Command + N for new page or Command + F for search—to speed up navigation. You can also create custom templates for recurring tasks like meeting agendas, lesson plans, or daily journals.

Enable auto-conversion of shapes to make diagrams and sketches look professional—simply draw a rough circle or rectangle, and GoodNotes will clean it up automatically. Use the laser pointer and presentation mode to deliver slideshows directly from your notebook.

For students using Mac for remote learning, combining GoodNotes 5 with Split View (iPad) or Stage Manager (Mac) allows you to view lecture slides on one side and take notes on the other—boosting focus and efficiency.

Lastly, explore the GoodNotes community online to download free templates, planners, and sticker packs created by other users, enhancing both functionality and creativity.

By integrating handwriting, typing, audio, and document management into one powerful platform, GoodNotes 5 remains a leading digital notebook app for Mac and iPad, especially for those seeking a paperless study or work environment.