How to use Auto-Correction and predictive text on your iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch

Learn how to use Auto-Correction, predictive text, and text replacement so you can type with fewer taps. 

iPhone screen showing how to turn on Auto Correction 

Use Auto-Correction

Auto-Correction uses your keyboard dictionary to spellcheck words as you type, automatically correcting misspelled words for you. To use it, just type in a text field. 

To make sure that Auto-Correction is turned on: 

  1. Open the Settings app. 
  2. Tap General > Keyboard. 
  3. Turn on Auto-Correction. By default, Auto-Correction is on.

Use predictive text

With predictive text, you can write and complete entire sentences with just a few taps.

iPhone screen showing predictive text 

As you type, you can see choices for words and phrases you'd probably type next, based on your past conversations, writing style, and even websites you visit in Safari.

 

iPhone screen showing Keyboard settings for predictive text

To turn predictive text off or on:

  1. Touch and hold the smile emoji  or the globe icon globe icon.
  2. Tap Keyboard Settings, then turn Predictive on or off.

Or go to Settings > General > Keyboard, and turn Predictive on or off.

iPhone screen showing how to use text replacement 

Set up text replacement

With text replacement, you can use shortcuts to replace longer phrases. When you enter the shortcut in a text field, the phrase automatically replaces it. For example, you could type "GM" and "Good morning" would automatically replace it. 

To manage text replacement, tap Settings > General > Keyboard > Text Replacement. 

  • To add a text replacement:
    1. Tap the Add button plus icon.
    2. Enter your phrase and shortcut.
    3. Tap Save.
  • To remove a text replacement:
    1. Tap Edit.
    2. Tap the Remove button , then tap Delete.
    3. Tap Done.

 

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