NormCap is one of the best OCR tools available for Linux. It allows you to extract text directly from your screen using a simple keyboard shortcut. This makes it extremely useful for students, developers, and anyone who needs quick text extraction.

In this guide, you'll learn how to install NormCap, fix common issues, and assign a keyboard shortcut for instant OCR access.

Step 1: Install NormCap using pipx (recommended method)

Modern Debian systems restrict global pip installs, so use pipx for safe installation:

sudo apt update
sudo apt install pipx python3-full python3-venv -y

pipx ensurepath
pipx install normcap

Verify installation:

normcap

Step 2: Install required dependencies

NormCap needs OCR engine and clipboard tools:

sudo apt install tesseract-ocr scrot xclip xsel wl-clipboard -y

These tools handle screenshot capture, OCR processing, and clipboard copying.

Step 3: Fix clipboard issues

Install xclip to ensure clipboard works properly:

sudo apt install xclip -y

Step 4: Use X11 session for best compatibility

NormCap works best with X11.

Steps:

• Logout
• Click ⚙️ icon on login screen
• Select GNOME on Xorg
• Login again

Verify session:

echo $XDG_SESSION_TYPE

Expected output:

x11

Step 5: Add keyboard shortcut for instant OCR

Go to:

Settings → Keyboard → Keyboard Shortcuts → Custom Shortcuts → Add

Enter:

Name:

NormCap OCR

Command:

/home/$USER/.local/bin/normcap

Shortcut:

Super + Shift + O

(Super key = Windows key)

Step 6: How to use NormCap

Press your shortcut → select any screen area → text is automatically copied → paste anywhere.

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