How to Spell Check in Inkscape?

This article provides a quick overview and step-by-step guide on how to use the built-in spell check feature in Inkscape. You will learn how to locate the spell check tool, configure its language settings, and efficiently review your vector graphics documents for typos before exporting or publishing them.

Using the Built-In Spell Checker

Inkscape includes a native spell-checking tool that scans your text objects for errors. To use it, follow these steps:

• Open the Tool: Navigate to the top menu and select Text > Check Spelling…, or use the keyboard shortcut Ctrl + Alt + K (or Cmd + Alt + K on a Mac).
• Review Suggestions: A dialog box will appear on the right side of your workspace. Inkscape will highlight the first unrecognized word it finds and offer alternative spelling suggestions.
• Action the Changes: For each flagged word, you can choose to Ignore it, Ignore All instances, Change it to a suggested spelling, or Add the word to your personal dictionary so it isn’t flagged again in the future.

Configuring Language and Dictionaries

The accuracy of Inkscape’s spell check depends on your system’s installed dictionaries.

• System Dependencies: Inkscape typically relies on system-level dictionaries (like Aspell or Hunspell). If the spell checker is not picking up errors, you may need to ensure the correct language packs are installed on your operating system.
• Changing Languages: You can set the language for specific text blocks by selecting the text, opening the Text and Font dialog (Ctrl + Shift + T), and adjusting the language settings in the options tab.

Tips for Managing Text in Inkscape

While Inkscape is a powerful vector design tool, it handles text differently than a standard word processor.

• Check Before Converting to Paths: Always run your spell check before using the “Object to Path” command. Once text is converted into vector paths, it becomes a graphic shape and can no longer be read or corrected by the spell check tool.
• Large Documents: For designs containing heavy amounts of text, consider drafting and proofreading your copy in a dedicated word processor first, then copying and pasting the finalized text into Inkscape.