Today in every field, the influence of documentation and visuals can’t be overlooked. Most of the time, data is required from these documents or images for information analysis and record-making procedures.
So how can a person get data from images or documents? Is it even possible to convert them into text form?
Yes, it is possible. But how?
Don’t get panic. All of your confusion will be solved after reading this content. So let’s get started.
What is OCR?
OCR stands for optical character recognition. This technique converts images and all types of documents, either scanned, printed, or handwritten, into editable text.
In this technology, both hardware and software work in collaboration—the hardware functions for scanning the image or document while the software works for data extraction.
History of OCR
Ray Kurzweil first used this technique in 1974. He used this technology for developing Omni-font products. He aimed to make a machine to read the text for blinds and educate them.
In the initial stage, this technique was not much advance and worked for a limited number of fonts and languages. But now, this technique has adopted modern AI technology by which it has become versatile and multifunctional in its processing and output.
Working methodology of OCR
In general, OCR works through a pattern of black and white color. By using a scanner, the system develops a two-color document. The black color indicates the ‘characters’ present in the image or document, while the white color indicates the ’empty spaces.’
Steps of OCR
The complete OCR process involves five steps. These steps are:
1. Image uploading
To perform OCR, the first step is image import from the system. OCR developers can take any image, such as JPG, PNG, etc., or document documents, PDF, etc., from the computer memory. You can also add Word or PowerPoint files to this developer kit.
2. Image pre-processing
In this step, the image quality is scanned. The image gets optimization through various functions like image rotation, cropping, mirroring, etc.
All these procedures make the image text visible and clear so that the extraction process works smoothly.
3. Data analysis
OCR tool kit analyzes the whole document and each page keenly. The advanced AI algorithm points out in which area text is present and tells us about the document layout.
4. Data recognition
This step is crucial. In this step, OCR recognizes the font and language of the text. A Black and white color pattern is developed for characters and empty spaces.
In this step, language and mathematical equations or scientific formulas are also identified.
5. Document finalization
This is the last step. After text extraction, it is presented in the form of a document. You can select the document type and font. The settings can also choose a language.
In this step, you provide your required layout to the OCR, and OCR works according to it and reports it in a favorable format.
How to perform OCR?
There are different tools available on the internet that can perform OCR functions for you. These tools can extract text from every kind of image and scanned document.
These tools can be different in their features and function, but their ultimate task is the same. OCR software can be free or have some charges.
There is a long list of OCR tools. Out of this list, the most credible are as follows:
OCR.best
OCR.best is a free OCR tool that can help you in image conversion. The text obtained is editable.
How to use this tool?
To use this tool, you should have to follow these basic steps:
- Upload your image on Drag and Drop option. You can also link a URL, add a file by dropbox, or take the file directly from the drive.
- After uploading, you have to verify the reCAPTCHA.
- Hit on the Convert option.
- You will get your text, and you can download it to make edits.
Why should I use this tool?
- This tool does not demand a single penny.
- You do not require any account on the software.
- You can use it online. There is no need for lengthy downloading and a hectic installation process.
- Its algorithm is based on contemporary AI technology.
- It is compatible with all types of devices.
- It supports multiple languages. You can select your preferred language from the settings before uploading the image.
- It is highly accurate and quick in response.
- All your files are safe. It does not make any copy of your material. After the OCR process, the file is automatically deleted from its database.
Prepostseo.com
It is a famous and reliable tool for data extraction from images and documents. With this tool, you can also extract text from blur images and screenshots.
How to use this tool?
Follow these basic steps to perform OCR:
- Drag your image, enter the URL, or upload it from drive or dropbox.
- Select the language from the panel.
- After that, verify the reCAPTCHA.
- Click on the Submit option.
- Download the text.
Why should I use this tool?
- This tool is easy to use. Clear instructions are given on each step.
- It is free of cost.
- You can identify math equations by it.
- It works best for low-resolution images.
- You can perform OCR for three files at one time.
- It gives you the option of choosing your preferred language.
- You can use it on your mobile, desktop, and laptop.
- It is sensitive to small changes.
- The tool is based on advanced AI technology.
- It is precise and secure.
Imagetotext.info
This is also a basic tool to perform OCR. Its usage and features are given below.
How to use this tool?
To get your result, follow the steps:
- Upload an image or browse for it.
- Verify the reCAPTCHA.
- Click on Submit option.
- Save your text.
Why should I use this tool?
- This tool is also free.
- It has a friendly interface.
- It also supports multiple languages.
- You can perform OCR for every type of image like PNG, JPG, GIF, etc.
- It has no installation process.
- It is also AI-based.
- This software is very responsive.
- It provides security to your data.
Advantages of OCR
- You can extract text from images and papers to make edits.
- It has reduced the need for manual work.
- Time and cost reduction.
- Increase productivity.
- Data has become secure.
- Reduction in the workforce.
- Workflow has become smooth.