If your Apple Pencil suddenly stops responding—whether you’re sketching, jotting down notes, or navigating your iPad—it can be a serious workflow killer. The issue could stem from a drained battery, pairing glitches, a worn tip, or even a software bug. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you troubleshoot and fix your Apple Pencil when it’s not working.
1. Charge Your Apple Pencil
It might sound obvious, but a low or dead battery is the most common reason your Apple Pencil isn’t working.
- 1st Gen Apple Pencil: Remove the cap and plug it into your iPad’s Lightning port.
- 2nd Gen Apple Pencil: Snap it magnetically to the side of your iPad. You should see a charging indicator.
Let it charge for at least 5–10 minutes before trying again.
2. Re-Pair Your Apple Pencil
Sometimes your Pencil can lose connection and needs to be re-paired.
For 1st Gen:
- Plug it into your iPad.
- Tap Pair when prompted.
For 2nd Gen:
- Attach it to the magnetic connector on the side of your iPad.
- Wait for the pairing pop-up and confirm.
If the Pencil still doesn’t work, go to Settings > Bluetooth, tap the i next to Apple Pencil, then Forget This Device. Reconnect again as above.
3. Restart Your iPad
A quick reboot can clear up temporary software glitches that might be interfering.
- Press and hold the Power + Volume Up buttons until the power slider appears.
- Drag the slider to turn off your iPad.
- Turn it back on by holding the Power button.
4. Update iPadOS
Outdated software can lead to compatibility problems, especially with accessories like the Apple Pencil.
To check for updates:
- Go to Settings > General > Software Update.
- Tap Download and Install if a new version is available.
5. Update or Remove Problematic Apps
If the issue only happens in certain apps, those apps might be buggy or outdated.
- To update apps:
Open the App Store, tap your profile icon, and scroll down to Update All. - To delete a buggy app:
Tap and hold the app icon, tap Remove App, then Delete App.
6. Check and Replace the Tip
A worn or loose tip can mess with responsiveness.
- To check it: Gently tighten the tip by twisting it clockwise.
- To replace it: Unscrew the old tip and screw in a new one (extra tips are included with most Apple Pencils or sold separately).
Also wipe it down with a clean, soft cloth—dirt can block input.
7. Check Settings That May Interfere
If you’re using drawing apps, double-check they don’t have “Apple Pencil only” or “Ignore finger input” modes enabled, which might make it seem like your Pencil is unresponsive when you use fingers to test.
Also, in Settings > Apple Pencil, make sure features like Scribble or Double-Tap are enabled if needed.
8. Clean the Pencil and iPad
Dust, oil, and lint on your Pencil or iPad screen can interfere with touch and pressure sensitivity.
- Wipe the Pencil and screen with a soft, lint-free cloth.
- Avoid liquids or abrasive cleaners.
9. Try Another iPad (If You Can)
If you have access to another compatible iPad, try pairing your Apple Pencil with it. This will help confirm whether the problem is with the Pencil or your iPad.
Prevent Future Apple Pencil Problems
- Always store it properly (use a case or magnetic holder).
- Avoid extreme heat or cold.
- Only use genuine Apple accessories.
- Regularly update your iPad software and apps.
- Avoid dropping it—internal damage isn’t always visible.