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

Learn how to use Auto-Correction and predictive text. Set up text shortcuts to automatically become longer words or phrases.

Use Auto-Correction and edit Auto-Correction suggestions

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.

In iOS 17 and later, Auto-Correction temporarily underlines words that it corrects. To quickly edit an auto-correction, tap the underlined word and choose an option from the pop-up menu.

Turn Auto-Correction on or off

1. In the Settings app, tap General.

2. Tap Keyboard.

3. Turn Auto-Correction on or off

   

By default, Auto-Correction is on.

Use predictive text

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

See a full list of languages that support predictive text.

Set up shortcuts for words or phrases

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

To manage your text replacements:

1. In the Settings app, tap General.

2. Tap Keyboard.

3. Tap Text Replacement.

Add a text replacement

1. In the Settings app, tap General.

2. Tap Keyboard.

3. Tap Text Replacement.

4. Tap the Add button.

5. Enter your phrase and shortcut.

6. Tap Save.

   

Delete a text replacement

1. In the Settings app, tap General.

2. Tap Keyboard.

3. Tap Text Replacement.

4. Tap Edit.

5. Tap the Remove button, then tap Delete.

6. Tap Done.