Spelling Notebook

Overview

Spelling Notebook is a spelling practice app for students who want to build their own word lists, hear pronunciations, and focus on words they have yet to master. Its regional dictionary, independent practice, and reviewable results make it a practical fit for individual learners and families using Apple devices; the reported 10-word limit on the free version may be restrictive for longer lists.

Key features

Lists, dictation, and practice

Students can create and manage multiple lists, add dictionary words, and move words between lists. The searchable dictionary contains more than 100,000 words, and supports US, UK, Australian, Canadian, and New Zealand English. That regional choice matters for learners who need to practise the spelling conventions they use at school.

A built-in voice reads dictionary entries and added English words; students can also record a word or phrase in their own voice. They can take spelling tests and practise by dictation, then focus subsequent practice on missed words. Adjustable practice settings give learners some control over review, while the focus on problem words helps make repeat sessions more purposeful than starting from scratch each time.

Progress and sharing

Spelling Notebook keeps a history of tests and practice, so students can revisit past results and follow their progress. Lists can be imported or exported with iCloud Drive and shared through AirDrop or email; test results can also be emailed. These options suit families who want to move lists between devices or pass results along, though they are tied to Apple’s sharing tools and email.

Pricing

The Free plan costs nothing and provides a free app download. An App Store user review reports a 10-word list limit, which may be enough for short practice sets but can force frequent list splitting for larger assignments.

Upgrade to Premium costs $1.99, paid once as an in-app purchase. It removes the free version’s word-list limit, according to an App Store user review, making it the more suitable option for students who need longer lists. The one-time price avoids a recurring subscription; the free option gives up unrestricted list length.

Platforms

Spelling Notebook is listed for iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch, and the platform listing includes iOS and macOS. Its iCloud Drive, AirDrop, and email sharing fit Apple-device workflows. In-app help and support by email at [email protected] provide routes for assistance.

The privacy policy says the app may collect contact details, cookies, and usage data, and that data from users outside New Zealand may be transferred to and processed in New Zealand. It says commercially acceptable measures are used to protect personal data but cannot guarantee absolute security. Payment card details are handled by third-party processors, including Apple Store In-App Payments.

Who it's for

The app is recommended for all ages, including kids, and students can practise independently. Its custom lists and corrective practice suit learners working through school spelling assignments or personal vocabulary goals. It is less compelling for anyone who needs a large free list or is looking for a classroom-focused platform with Android or web access.

Pros and cons

Pros

• Regional spelling support: Five English variants let learners practise spellings suited to their region.
• Focused review: Practice can concentrate on missed words, and a history of tests and practice preserves past results.
• Flexible word input: Students can use dictionary entries, add their own words, or record their own pronunciation.
• One-time premium option: The reported premium upgrade removes the free word-list limit without a recurring charge.

Cons

• Free lists may be short: The reported 10-word limit can interrupt practice on longer assignments.
• Apple-oriented sharing: List transfer relies on iCloud Drive, AirDrop, or email, so the sharing workflow is less suited to non-Apple households.
• Privacy trade-off: The policy permits collection of contact details, cookies, and usage data, with possible processing in New Zealand for users elsewhere.

Alternatives

Browse Spelling Apps for more options. Choose SpellMe instead if cross-platform access matters: it supports Android, iOS, Linux, macOS, web, and Windows, and its free Basic plan includes five lists of up to 10 words each plus 300+ curated phonics lists. Choose Spelling Shed if you want a free option with tests, games, challenges, and classroom-only rostering, though its free history is limited to seven days. Spelling.Live may suit learners who prefer a credit-based model: its free sign-up credits expire after 90 days without a practice session.

SpellingJoy, Spelvo, PenPoints, Spelling Boost, and Word Club are other spelling-app options to compare.

Verdict

Spelling Notebook is a strong fit for students who want to practise independently with their own lists, region-appropriate spelling, and a record of results. Its main advantage is the combination of customizable practice and missed-word review; its main drawback is the free version’s reported 10-word cap. Choose it if those Apple-oriented tools suit your routine, and consider the one-time premium upgrade for longer lists. Look elsewhere if you need a broader platform mix or a free option without that reported restriction.