How to Fix an Apple Pencil That Is Not Working

Troubleshoot and fix connectivity or responsiveness issues with your Apple Pencil on iPad. Follow these steps to restore full functionality.

  1. Verify charging status. Attach the Apple Pencil to the magnetic connector on the side of your iPad. Look for a battery status notification at the top of the screen confirming the Pencil is charging and recognized by the system.
  2. Toggle Bluetooth settings. Navigate to Settings > Bluetooth and ensure Bluetooth is toggled on. If it is already enabled, toggle it off, wait five seconds, and toggle it back on to refresh the wireless handshake.
  3. Forget and re-pair the device. In Settings > Bluetooth, locate your Apple Pencil in the My Devices list. Tap the blue 'i' icon next to the name and select Forget This Device, then re-attach the Pencil to your iPad to prompt the pairing request.
  4. Tighten the pencil tip. The Apple Pencil tip can loosen over time, causing input errors. Rotate the tip clockwise until it is fully secure and flush against the body of the Pencil.
  5. Perform a forced restart. A system glitch may prevent the iPad from recognizing input. Press and quickly release the Volume Up button, press and quickly release the Volume Down button, and hold the Power button until the Apple logo appears on the display.

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