Scratchpad

Scratchpad is a nimble, always-accessible note-taking app designed for simplicity and speed. Sitting comfortably in the menu bar on macOS or readily available on iOS, it provides a seamless way to capture fleeting ideas without disrupting workflow. With its plain text format and distraction-free interface, users can jot down thoughts instantly with a custom hotkey. Imagine it as a trusty notebook that magically appears when needed. Syncing across devices via iCloud ensures notes are available anywhere, yet privacy is maintained as iCloud sync is opt-in and secure. While lacking features like rich-text and multiple notes, its minimalistic approach appeals to those seeking a straightforward tool for brain dumps or quick drafts. The app’s affordable pricing and lightweight nature make it a practical choice for students and professionals alike.

Instant Access

Scratchpad sits ready on your macOS menu bar or Dock, and iOS Home Screen, providing one-tap access. It's like having a sticky note always within reach, saving you from searching through apps when inspiration strikes.

Plain Text Focus

Designed with simplicity in mind, Scratchpad supports only plain text. This keeps distractions at bay, making it perfect for jotting down quick ideas or brain dumps without getting tangled in formatting.

iCloud Syncing

Optionally sync notes across devices via iCloud, ensuring your thoughts are always updated and accessible, much like having a personal assistant keeping all your reminders in place.

Lightweight and Fast

With a clean, distraction-free interface, Scratchpad is both lightweight and lightning-fast, allowing users to jot down ideas without interrupting their workflow — a seamless addition to any busy lifestyle.

Custom Hotkey

For macOS users, a custom hotkey enables instant writing, acting like a magic wand that pauses everything else to capture fleeting thoughts. It's a productivity enhancer that keeps your focus unbroken.

Inspiration Capture on-the-Go: A writer uses Scratchpad from their iOS home screen to jot down sudden creative ideas, leveraging its one-tap access and iCloud sync for seamless note-taking across devices.

Effortless Meeting Summaries: A manager employs the macOS hotkey feature to quickly document meeting highlights in a translucent Scratchpad window, allowing for distraction-free, instant note-taking without disrupting work flow.

Student Brainstorming Session: During a group study, a student uses Scratchpad's plain text interface to rapidly compile team insights, appreciating the app's lightweight design that supports efficient collaboration and idea retention.

Quick Task Drafting: A busy professional utilizes Scratchpad for drafting quick tasks and to-dos directly from their macOS menu bar, benefiting from its clean interface and floating window capability to maintain focus.

Privacy-Focused Journaling: A privacy-conscious user opts for Scratchpad's opt-in iCloud sync to maintain a secure, single-note journal, trusting that no personal data is collected, thus ensuring peace of mind.

Step 1: Download and install Scratchpad on your device.

Step 2: Access the app from the menu bar or Dock (macOS) or Home Screen (iOS).

Step 3: Tap once to open the note and start writing your thoughts.

Step 4: Use a custom hotkey on macOS for instant access and writing.

Step 5: Optional: Enable iCloud sync in settings to access notes across devices.

What is Scratchpad?

Scratchpad is a simple, always-accessible note-taking app for quick idea capture.

How do I access Scratchpad?

On macOS, it sits in your menu bar or Dock; on iOS, it's on the Home Screen.

Can I format text in Scratchpad?

No, Scratchpad supports only plain text to maintain simplicity.

Can I sync Scratchpad notes with iCloud?

Yes, iCloud sync is optional for securely syncing text across devices.

Does Scratchpad support multiple notes?

No, Scratchpad focuses on a single, persistent note for minimal distraction.

Why is Scratchpad not in my Mac's Dock?

By default, it's in the menu bar; enable the Dock icon in settings if needed.

How can I quickly add text to Scratchpad?

Use right-click options on macOS or the Shortcuts app for fast input.

Why might Scratchpad not sync between devices?

Check iCloud settings and ensure all devices are connected and updated.

Can I add images to Scratchpad notes?

No, Scratchpad only supports plain text to keep the app lightweight.

Is Scratchpad available on watchOS?

Not yet, but a watchOS version is planned for later this year.