Force Restart
If charging doesn't resolve the issue, a force restart can often fix a frozen screen or software glitch without deleting your data. The steps vary depending on your iPad model:
For iPads without a Home Button (e.g., newer iPad Pro, iPad Air, iPad mini):
Press and quickly release the Volume Up button.
Press and quickly release the Volume Down button.
Press and hold the Top Button (Power/Sleep/Wake button).
Keep holding the Top Button until the Apple logo appears, then release.
For iPads with a Home Button (e.g., older iPad models):
Press and hold both the Home button and the Top Button (or Side button) at the same time.
Keep holding both buttons until the Apple logo appears, then release.
Use Recovery Mode (Last Resort for Software)
If the force restart doesn't work, the next step is to use a computer to put your iPad into Recovery Mode to attempt an update or restore. This requires a Mac (with Finder) or a PC (with iTunes or the Apple Devices app).
Connect to Computer: Connect your iPad to your computer with a USB cable.
Enter Recovery Mode: Perform the Force Restart steps for your specific iPad model (see above), but do not release the button(s) when the Apple logo appears. Continue holding until you see the recovery mode screen (an image of a computer and a cable).
Update or Restore: A window should pop up on your computer offering to Update or Restore your iPad.
Choose Update first. This will reinstall iPadOS without erasing your data.
If that fails, repeat the steps and choose Restore. Warning: This will erase all data and settings on your iPad.