I like to write in a semi-print, quasi-cursive style. You know, the way that most people write when they're jotting down notes to themselves. A few letters go together like cursive writing but the rest are simply printed. Well, I thought this might be a problem for CalliGrapher but it wasn't. As long as my letters didn't extend too much into the next letter it was fine. If I wrote the word "This" and crossed my "T" so the line went over the "i" and "s" there might be a problem. But, if I simply wrote naturally and stayed in control CalliGrapher amazingly translated everything I wrote.

The install process was very easy. CalliGrapher will want about 900Kb of space but you will have the option of placing some files on a PC Card. You can also choose to install the small Dictionary rather than the large to save some space. I wouldn't worry about the space if you need the handwriting capability. If you have the space, use it because this software is really far above its competition.

Once installed CalliGrapher places some icons in the task tray of your H/PC.



These icons help you switch between writing mode, and Drawing mode. In writing mode you can write naturally in a program like Pocket Word, and CalliGrapher will translate your writing into text. In Drawing mode, you can simply draw on your screen. Need a map or a quick note? No problem, just draw it right over your desktop. That's one of the slickest features to me. Let's say you need to write down somebody's phone number, you can simply jot it down right over your desktop without having to launch Pocket Word or some other program.

As I said before, CalliGrapher recognized my semi-print quasi-cursive writing but it did make just a few errors. No problem though, CalliGrapher lets you correct your input with a simple correction gesture. You simply make a "Check mark" on the screen and the correction dialog box appears. You have the option of correcting with the stylus, or with the keyboard. CalliGrapher will also suggest some words for you out of its internal dictionary. Like most online dictionaries you have the option of adding new words to it so CalliGrapher can learn from you.

The folks at ParaGraph have really thought of just about everything with this release. I wondered whether or not I could write with my screen upside down...no problem. CalliGrapher comes with an orientation setting that allows you to turn your H/PC upside down so the keyboard doesn't get in the way. You simply change a setting in the options menu and you're all set.

Here's a quick list of features offered in this version of CalliGrapher:

• NEW in 5.1:H/PC and Palm-size PC Ready.
• Recognizes Cursive, Print or Mixed Handwriting
• Ready to Go Without Training
• Integrates with All Windows CE applications
• Includes Spell Checker with User Dictionary Capability
• Deferred Recognition
• NEW in 5.1:Advanced Note Taking and Screen Draw Mode
• NEW in 5.1:Ink Color Selection and Customizable Ink Width
• NEW in 5.1:Enhanced "Screen Orientation"
• NEW in 5.1:Disabling Keyboard in WindowsCE 2.0
• NEW in 5.1:Recognition Speed/Quality Slider
• NEW in 5.1:Separate Letter Mode
• NEW in 5.1:"Quick Correct" Window

I suppose I could go on and on about CalliGrapher but I'll stop here. There are other reviews listed at CEcity that give you more of an instructional type of review. I would simply like to say again, "What a treat!" CalliGrapher gets the Award.

At A Glance
Summary:	Handwriting recognition and drawing program
Pros:	Very good recognition; few errors.
Cons:	Lots of memory required.