What Are Action Gestures?
Action gestures are pen-based commands used on Tablet PCs that allow users to edit text or perform common actions using quick, predefined stylus movements instead of tapping buttons or using a keyboard.
They’re part of the Windows handwriting recognition system, especially designed for tablet or stylus-enabled devices.
Types of Action Gestures
| Gesture | Description |
|---|---|
| Scratch-out | Draw a wavy or zigzag line through text to delete it. |
| Insert Space (caret) | Draw an upward-pointing caret (^) to insert a space. |
| Join | Draw a vertical line between characters to remove space. |
| New Line | Draw an L-shaped gesture to move text to the next line. |
| Backspace | Draw a short, leftward horizontal stroke. |
How Action Gestures Work
When you write with a pen or stylus on the Tablet PC Input Panel:
- The system interprets the strokes as handwriting.
- If a recognized gesture shape is detected, it executes a command instead of recognizing the stroke as text.
- The gesture is processed instantly, giving users a quick and natural way to edit text.
Benefits of Using Action Gestures
- Speed: Quicker than switching between keyboard/mouse and stylus.
- Efficiency: Keep hands on the stylus and workflow uninterrupted.
- Accessibility: Helps users with mobility limitations avoid more complex input methods.
- Natural Feel: Mimics the way people edit text with pen on paper.
Where It’s Used
- Windows XP Tablet PC Edition
- Windows Vista/7 with Tablet PC features enabled
- Handwriting panels in Microsoft Office