Abstract: The present invention provides method and apparatus for inputting data to an active application of a computer system. A method of the present invention comprises the steps of creating an input image on a screen of a computer system, detecting the engagement of the input image by a pointer, analyzing the engagement to determine input data, and sending the input data to the active application program. Another method of the present invention comprises the steps of initializing a computer implemented process for intercepting input request calls made by the active application program, creating an input image on the computer system's screen, detecting an engagement of a pointer with the input image, analyzing the engagement to determine potential input data, and sending the input data to the application program. The present invention preferably includes an organizational image including a palette and a number of icons representing input utilities.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for providing a note on an application program includes noticing a note anchor object associated with a data file displayed by an application program on a computer screen and displaying a note slip image over the displayed data and images of the application program. Many anchor objects and note slips may be displayed on the screen at once, and a single anchor object is preferably associated with a single note slip. The note slip is preferably receptive to pen-based inputs, and may be resized or moved on the screen. The anchor object includes a visual picture data portion and a picture comment data portion that descibes the note slip associated with that anchor object. The anchor object preferably exists as a standard graphical picture in the application program and can be manipulated as such. The present invention thus allows note slips to be displayed in existing application programs, either pen-compatible or non-pen-compatible.