Hanzi Writer - Learn Chinese Handwriting

Everything You Need to Master Chinese Writing

From stroke order to spaced repetition, Hanzi Writer covers every aspect of handwriting practice.

Interactive Writing Practice

Draw directly on screen with real-time stroke validation. Wrong order? Missed a stroke? Instant feedback builds perfect muscle memory.

SRS Spaced Repetition

Anki-compatible algorithm schedules reviews at optimal intervals. Rate your confidence and lock in characters for the long term.

Privacy-First OCR Scanner

Snap a photo of any Chinese text. On-device AI recognition identifies characters instantly. Your photos never leave your device.

Printable Worksheets

Generate professional A4 PDF practice sheets with pinyin and stroke guides. Perfect for classroom use or offline pen-and-paper study.

Anki Deck Import

Already using Anki? Import .apkg or .colpkg decks directly. Turn your existing collections into a handwriting practice experience.

AI Topic Generator

Type a learning goal like 'Business Mandarin' and get personalized word lists instantly. AI-generated content vetted for accuracy.

Animated Stroke Order

Watch characters come to life with smooth animations. Adjustable playback speeds help you master structure before you write.

Secure Cloud Sync

Sync progress across devices with encrypted cloud backup. Never lose your review data, history, or custom vocabulary.

How It Works

Choose Your Content

Pick from HSK 1-9, YCT 1-4, Singapore curriculum, or create custom topics with AI.

Practice Writing

Write each character with guided stroke order. Get instant feedback on every stroke.

Review & Grow

SRS algorithm schedules reviews. Track progress and watch your handwriting improve.

Rich Content Library

Comprehensive coverage for every learner

HSK 1-9

Standard & Handwriting

YCT 1-4

For young learners

Singapore Primary

24 volumes

AP Chinese / iGCSE

Exam preparation

Business Mandarin

Professional vocabulary

3,500 Characters

Most common

8 Themed Collections

Curated topics

16 Languages

Interface translations

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Hanzi Writer free?

Hanzi Writer offers a free version with core writing practice features. A Pro subscription unlocks unlimited daily practice, AI topic generation, cloud sync, and removes ads.

What exams does Hanzi Writer support?

We support HSK 1-9 (both Standard and Handwriting versions), YCT 1-4, AP Chinese, iGCSE Chinese, and Singapore Primary School curriculum (24 volumes).

Does the app work offline?

Yes! Core features including writing practice, stroke animations, and SRS review work completely offline. OCR scanning also runs on-device without internet.

Can I import my Anki decks?

Absolutely. Import .apkg or .colpkg files directly into Hanzi Writer. Your existing character collections become interactive handwriting practice sessions.

Is my data private?

Privacy is our priority. OCR images are processed 100% on-device. We use encrypted cloud sync for your progress data. We never sell your personal information. See our Privacy Policy for details.

What devices are supported?

Hanzi Writer is available on iOS (iPhone & iPad) and Android devices. Progress syncs across all your devices with a Pro subscription.

What is the best way to learn HSK writing?

Combine three things: watch animated stroke order, practice writing with real-time feedback, and review with spaced repetition. Hanzi Writer structures HSK 1-9 courses so you learn characters in the right order and retain them long term.

How does spaced repetition help learn Chinese characters?

Spaced repetition schedules reviews at optimal intervals. After each practice you rate your confidence. Difficult characters come back sooner; easy ones appear later. This scientific approach locks characters into long-term memory efficiently.

What is the difference between HSK Standard and HSK Handwriting?

HSK Standard tests reading, listening, and sometimes writing recognition. HSK Handwriting requires you to physically write characters. Hanzi Writer supports both with dedicated practice modes and official vocabulary lists.

Can I print Chinese writing worksheets from the app?

Yes. Generate professional A4 PDF worksheets with model characters, stroke-by-stroke guides, and pinyin. Print them for traditional pen-and-paper practice, perfect for classroom use or offline study sessions.

Master Chinese Handwriting