Scan Mode vs. Score Mode – Key Differences Explained

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Scan Mode vs. Score Mode – Key Differences Explained

 

ScanScore offers two distinct working environments: Scan Mode and Score Mode. While they are both part of the same software, they serve entirely different purposes.

This article explains the difference between these two modes, when to use each, and what to keep in mind when switching — including an important note: the transition is one-way only.

Scan Mode – The Core of ScanScore

Scan Mode is the main environment for working with scanned or imported sheet music. It’s where you correct what the software has recognized — and ensure your digital version matches the original.

Typical tasks in Scan Mode include:

  • Importing PDFs, images, or scans

  • Correcting rhythmic errors, voice assignments, and key or time signatures

  • Editing repeat structures, voltas, codas, and navigation symbols

  • Assigning instruments and fixing layout inconsistencies

  • Cleaning up lyrics, chord symbols, and dynamics

Important: In Scan Mode, the structure of the original document is preserved.
You cannot add or delete measures, or insert new instruments — because the goal is to maintain synchronization with the scanned source.

Score Mode – For Advanced Editing After Recognition

Once you’ve completed all corrections in Scan Mode, you can switch to Score Mode. This mode is designed for further editing of the score — beyond the scanned original.

What you can do in Score Mode:

  • Add or delete measures to restructure the score

  • Add new instruments or voices to the existing arrangement

  • Generate and export individual parts (e.g., PDFs for choir voices or orchestra sections)

  • Use the dedicated Layout menu to:

    • Set the number of bars per system or systems per page

    • Shift staves vertically

    • Adjust page margins and visual spacing

  • Make musical changes, transpositions, or adaptations

Unlike Scan Mode, Score Mode gives you the freedom to modify the musical content itself — not just the recognition result.

Warning: Switching Is Final

Once you move from Scan Mode to Score Mode, your file will be saved in a new format: .ssnf (Score Score Notation File). The original Scan file (.scsc) remains unchanged, but:

  • You cannot return to Scan Mode after switching

  • All recognition and scan correction tools are no longer available

  • All changes from this point forward are manual

Therefore:
Before switching, complete all scan corrections in Scan Mode and save your .scsc project as a backup. Only move into Score Mode when you’re ready for layout or structural edits.

Recommended Workflow: Export to a Notation Program

While Score Mode offers useful editing features, we recommend exporting to a dedicated notation program for larger tasks such as layout, publishing, and detailed part management.

Popular MusicXML-compatible editors include:

  • MuseScore

  • Dorico

  • Sibelius

  • Finale

These programs are optimized for advanced notation and typesetting.
ScanScore, in contrast, is optimized for one thing: scanning and correcting sheet music quickly and accurately.

Our recommendation:

  1. Complete all corrections in Scan Mode

  2. Export the file as MusicXML

  3. Open it in your preferred notation software for final editing

Conclusion

ScanScore separates scanning and recognition (Scan Mode) from advanced editing (Score Mode) to provide a clear and efficient workflow.

  • Use Scan Mode to correct recognition errors and match the original sheet music

  • Only switch to Score Mode if you need to make structural changes or layout adjustments

  • Save your work before switching — the change is permanent

  • For complex arrangements or publishing, export your score to a notation program

This modular approach helps you get the best out of ScanScore — and ensures a clean, professional result.

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