> ## Knowledge Base Index
> Fetch the complete knowledge base index at: https://help.scriptation.com/sitemap.xml
> Use this file to discover available pages before exploring further.
> Pure-Markdown content can be obtained by appending a '.md' suffix to the content URLs listed in the sitemap (without the trailing slash).

# The Pen tool keeps overwriting my notes!

If the Pen or Highlighter seems to be painting over your other notes, the tool's **Background Color** is set to a solid (usually white) instead of transparent. Fix it in the [Style Palette](https://help.scriptation.com/en/article/using-the-style-palette-1r35re7/) in two taps.

##### How to fix it

Tap the Pen tool on the [Annotation Toolbar](https://help.scriptation.com/en/article/an-overview-of-the-annotation-toolbar-6jmhwg/), then open the Style Palette and check the **Background Color**.

![](https://storage.crisp.chat/users/helpdesk/website/60818aeea8717000/img851db291a9bc-1_d5gugx.jpeg =600x433)

You want a ${color}[#ff2600](red line) through the background swatch — that means it's **transparent** and your pen strokes won't cover anything underneath.

If you see a solid white (or any solid) circle, every stroke will lay down a filled rectangle that blocks the notes below it.

| ✅ TIP: Each annotation tool stores its own Style Palette settings. If the Pen is fine but the Highlighter is overwriting, check the Highlighter's Background Color specifically.

| 💡 TIP: On iPad with a second-gen (or newer) Apple Pencil, double-tap or **Squeeze** the barrel to switch tools quickly without putting your pen down. See [Using the Apple Pencil on iPad](https://help.scriptation.com/en/article/using-the-apple-pencil-on-ipad-vao8kb/).

# What's Next

[Using the Style Palette](https://help.scriptation.com/en/article/using-the-style-palette-1r35re7/)
[An Overview of the Annotation Toolbar](https://help.scriptation.com/en/article/an-overview-of-the-annotation-toolbar-6jmhwg/)
[I'm accidentally erasing my notes with my palm or Apple Pencil](https://help.scriptation.com/en/article/im-accidentally-erasing-my-notes-with-my-palm-or-apple-pencil-6brz0z/)
[Group and Merge notes with the Selection tool](https://help.scriptation.com/en/article/group-and-merge-notes-with-the-selection-tool-s7qo3u/)