Combine multiple annotations with the Selection tool

With the Selection tool, a page of full notes taken individually can easily be joined into one annotation. This can be tremendously helpful if you are looking to Move, Copy/Paste, Delete, or Resize multiple related notes.



The Selection Tool also allows for two slightly different, but related tasks:

Group: Combines multiple types of annotations into one. (i.e. Text Boxes, Sticky Notes, Shapes, Arrows, Lines, Images, Stamps, as well as the free draw annotations of Marker and Freeform Highlight.)

Merge: Combines multiple free draw annotations into one. (Marker and Freeform Highlight only.)

Group

Here we have a script page that includes multiple types of annotations. There is an Image (the set plan), a Text Box (the label), a green Sticky Note, as well as Free Draw annotations on the set plan.



To group this collection of annotations together, tap the Selection tool on the Annotation Toolbar.

Then with your finger or Apple Pencil, press + move over the area with the annotations you'd like to group.

TIP: Don't see the Selection Tool? Press + Hold on the Eraser to show the Selection Tool.



Once the annotations are selected, a pop-up bar will appear. Tap Group.



Now all of your annotations will be treated as one!

Ungroup

Want to Ungroup? Simply tap the annotation again, and select Ungroup.

Merge

For the free draw ink tools - Marker and Freeform Highlight - Scriptation also offers the ability to permanently merge your annotations into one.

Here we have a script page with a handful of Free Draw Notes.



To group this collection of annotations together, tap the Selection tool. Then with your finger or Apple Pencil, press + move over the area with the annotations you'd like to combine.



Once the annotations are selected, a pop-up bar will appear. Tap Merge.

NOTE: Merging annotations can not be undone.



Now all of the previously selected Free Draw annotations have been merged, and any style changes made within the Inspector, in addition to use of Copy/Paste, Save and Delete will treat these annotations as one combined object.

NOTE: We are aware of a bug with Scriptation for Mac, where it may take a few tries for the Selection tool to recognize multiple annotations. Try to deselect, then reselect the Selection tool, and try again originating your click + drag from a different location on the screen. Update coming soon!

What's Next?

Using the Style Palette
Inserting Photos and Images into your script
What are Saved Annotations and how do I use them?

Updated on: 05/10/2022