Pronunciation: [skɹˈat͡ʃ pˈad] (IPA) 
The proper spelling of "scratch pad" is /skrætʃ pæd/. The word "scratch" is spelled with a "c" and a "h" because the sound it represents is a voiceless velar fricative followed by a voiceless palato-alveolar affricate. The word "pad" is spelled with a "d" because the sound it represents is a voiced alveolar plosive. Combined, these two words form a common term for a small notepad used for jotting down quick notes or reminders.
A scratch pad is a small sheet of paper or a notebook specifically designed to quickly jot down notes, reminders, or ideas. It serves as a temporary space for capturing information without the need for organization or permanent preservation. The term can also refer to a digital feature or application that replicates the functionality of a physical scratch pad.
A physical scratch pad, often pocket-sized, consists of numerous blank sheets typically bound together, allowing for easy flipping and quick access to a fresh writing surface. It is commonly used for making quick calculations, writing down phone numbers, addresses, or any type of information that needs to be temporarily recorded. Due to its ephemeral nature, a scratch pad is not typically intended for long-term storage or archival purposes.
In the digital realm, a scratch pad refers to a software feature or application that provides a virtual space for jotting down notes or ideas. These digital versions often mimic the appearance and functionality of physical scratch pads, with a blank canvas and simple writing tools. Users can type or write with a stylus directly onto the screen of a device equipped with touch or an interface that emulates a traditional writing surface. Digital scratch pads are commonly integrated into word processing software, text editors, or note-taking applications, allowing users to quickly capture thoughts or pieces of information without the need for a dedicated physical pad of paper.
The term "scratch pad" has a relatively straightforward etymology.
The word "scratch" in this context means to make a mark or incision on a surface, usually using a sharp object. In the past, when paper was scarce, people would often write important notes, reminders, or calculations on any available surface. They would make these notes using a sharp object, like a pen or pencil, scratching the information onto a tablet or pad. The idea was that these notes were temporary and could easily be erased or discarded once they were no longer needed.
Over time, the term "scratch pad" has become synonymous with a small pad of paper or a notepad used for jotting down quick notes, ideas, or calculations. The word "pad" refers to an individual sheet of paper bound or glued together at one end, forming a portable writing surface.
