How Do I Create a QR Code for Plain Text?
Sally Wright
Jun 9, 2023
A plain text QR code is a simple way to share a message, instruction, code, or other short piece of information with a quick scan. Instead of asking someone to type out the information themselves, you can put it into a QR code and let their phone display it almost instantly.
Creating one is easier than it may seem. With an online QR code generator such as QR Codes Unlimited, you can enter your text, customize the design, generate the code, and download it for use on printed or digital materials.
Before creating one, though, it helps to understand the difference between static and dynamic QR codes. The right option depends on whether you expect the information to stay the same or change later.
TL;DR
- A plain text QR code displays text when someone scans it.
- You can use one for messages, instructions, product information, and other short content.
- Static QR codes cannot be edited after they are created.
- Dynamic QR codes can be updated without replacing the printed QR code.
- Keeping your text short can make the code easier to scan.
- Always test a QR code before printing or publishing it.
- QR Codes Unlimited lets you create and customize plain text QR codes.
What Is a Plain Text QR Code?
A plain text QR code is a QR code designed to share text rather than send someone to a specific webpage.
The text could be a short message, a set of instructions, an identification code, contact information, or another piece of information that someone needs to access quickly.
For example, a restaurant could use a QR code to provide short ordering instructions. A business could place one on product packaging to share care instructions. An event organizer could use one to display directions or a short reminder.
When a person scans the code with a compatible smartphone camera or QR code reader, the encoded information is displayed on their device.
This makes plain text QR codes useful when you want to make information accessible without requiring people to manually type it.
Static vs. Dynamic Plain Text QR Codes
Not every plain text QR code works the same way.
A static QR code stores the information directly in the code. Once it has been created, the content cannot be changed. If you print a static QR code containing an old message and later need to change it, you generally need to create and print a new code.
A dynamic QR code works differently. The QR code can be managed through the platform that created it, allowing you to change the content without replacing the physical code.
This can be especially useful for printed materials that are expensive or difficult to update, such as packaging, posters, signs, menus, brochures, and business cards.
If the information will never change, a static QR code may be enough. If you expect to update it later, a dynamic QR code gives you more flexibility.
How to Create a Plain Text QR Code
You don't need design or technical experience to create a plain text QR code. QR Codes Unlimited provides a straightforward way to generate one online.
Step 1: Open QR Codes Unlimited
Choose the option for plain text or text-based content. The generator provides the tools you need to enter your information and create your code.
Step 2: Enter Your Text
Type the message or information you want your QR code to display.
This could be a short note, product instruction, event detail, identification code, or another type of text.
Try to keep the information focused. While QR codes can contain a considerable amount of data, adding more text can make the QR pattern denser. A shorter message is usually easier to scan, especially when the code will be printed at a small size.
If you want to send people directly to a website, consider using a URL QR code instead of a plain text QR code.
Step 3: Choose Your QR Code Type
If you have the option to create a dynamic QR code, consider how you plan to use it.
For permanent information, a static code may be suitable. For information that might change, a dynamic code can save you from having to redesign and reprint your materials later.
For example, imagine printing a QR code on a product insert. If the instructions change later, a dynamic code can allow you to update the information while keeping the same printed code.
Step 4: Customize the Design
A QR code doesn't have to look completely generic.
Depending on your needs, you can customize elements such as the colors, style, border, and logo. If you're creating a QR code for a business, matching the design to your existing branding can make it look more natural on your marketing materials.
However, don't sacrifice readability for appearance. Make sure there is enough contrast between the QR code and its background, and avoid adding design elements that interfere with the scanning pattern.
Step 5: Download and Test Your QR Code
Once you're happy with the design, generate and download the QR code.
Before adding it to a brochure, poster, package, or other material, scan it yourself. Try it with more than one phone if possible.
Also test it at the size and distance where people will actually use it. A code that scans perfectly on your computer screen may behave differently when printed very small.
What Can You Put in a Plain Text QR Code?
Plain text QR codes can be useful in many situations because they don't require you to create a full webpage for every small piece of information.
For example, you can use them for:
- Product instructions: Add short care, setup, or usage instructions to packaging or printed inserts.
- Event information: Share directions, reminders, schedules, or other useful details with attendees.
- Personal messages: Create a QR code containing a greeting, note, or special message.
- Educational activities: Teachers and instructors can use QR codes to reveal clues, definitions, questions, or short pieces of learning material.
- Inventory information: Place codes on physical items to provide identifiers or short descriptions.
- Marketing campaigns: Use a short message or callout to encourage customers to take the next step.
The best use cases are those where the information is short, useful, and easier to access by scanning than by typing.
How Much Text Can a QR Code Hold?
The amount of text a QR code can contain depends on factors such as the QR code version, encoding method, and error correction level.
However, more text isn't always better.
As you add information, the QR code becomes more complex. This can make it harder to scan, particularly if the code is printed at a small size or placed in a busy environment.
For that reason, focus on the information the user actually needs. If you have a long explanation, consider linking to a webpage or document instead.
Best Practices for Plain Text QR Codes
A few simple practices can make your QR code easier to use.
- Keep the message concise. Give users the information they need without unnecessary text.
- Tell people what to expect. Instead of placing a QR code next to the words “Scan Me,” try something more specific, such as “Scan for product instructions.”
- Use sufficient contrast. Your QR code should stand out clearly from its background.
- Choose an appropriate size. A code that is too small may be difficult to scan, particularly in printed materials.
- Test before publishing. Scan the finished design using different devices and in the environment where it will be used.
- Consider a dynamic code for changing information. If you expect to update the content later, a dynamic QR code can help you avoid replacing printed materials.
Why Use QR Codes Unlimited for Plain Text QR Codes?
QR Codes Unlimited gives you a convenient way to create plain text QR codes without needing specialized software or design skills.
You can enter your text, customize the appearance, and download the finished QR code for use across digital and physical materials. Dynamic QR codes also provide more flexibility when your content needs to change after the code has already been printed.
Whether you're creating a QR code for a business campaign, product packaging, an event, or a personal project, the goal is the same: make useful information easier to access.
Conclusion
Plain text QR codes provide a simple way to make messages and useful information accessible with a quick scan. You can use them for product instructions, event details, educational activities, personal messages, and many other purposes.
If your information is permanent, a static QR code may be all you need. If you expect to change the content later, a dynamic QR code gives you more flexibility without requiring you to reprint the code.
With QR Codes Unlimited, you can create, customize, and download a plain text QR code and start sharing information in a more convenient way. Explore the QR Codes Unlimited Academy to learn more about QR codes and discover additional ways to use them.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a plain text QR code?
A plain text QR code contains text that can be displayed when the code is scanned. It can be used for messages, instructions, product information, and other short content.
How do I create a QR code with text?
Open a QR code generator such as QR Codes Unlimited, select the plain text option, enter your message, customize the design, and generate the QR code. Test it before using it in your final materials.
Can I edit a plain text QR code after printing?
It depends on the type of QR code. A static QR code cannot be changed after creation. A dynamic QR code can allow you to update its content without replacing the printed code.
Can a QR code contain a message?
Yes. A plain text QR code can contain a short message that appears when someone scans it.
Do plain text QR codes need the internet?
A static QR code containing text can be decoded without accessing a website because the information is stored directly in the code. Dynamic QR codes may require an internet connection to retrieve the current content.
How much text should I put in a QR code?
Keep your message as concise as possible. Although QR codes can hold a substantial amount of information, shorter content generally creates a simpler code that is easier to scan.
