How can I customize OneNote settings to boost my daily productivity?

What are the best ways to configure OneNote for a faster workflow?

Optimize OneNote: Hidden Settings for High-Efficiency Workflows
Microsoft OneNote functions as a robust digital binder, allowing users to organize complex projects into notebooks, sections, and pages. While the default configuration works for general use, it often introduces friction for power users. Tweaking specific backend settings streamlines navigation and reduces click fatigue. Implement the following configurations to tailor OneNote for speed and precision.

Revert to Horizontal Tabs

Microsoft recently shifted OneNote’s default layout to vertical tabs, stacking Notebooks, Sections, and Pages on the left. While this unifies the UI, many long-term users find the original horizontal layout superior for screen real estate and muscle memory.

To restore the classic horizontal view:

1. Click the View tab in the top ribbon.
2. Select Tabs Layout.
3. Choose Horizontal Tabs.

Sections will now appear across the top, with pages listed on the right. If you prefer the page list on the left to centralize navigation:

1. Go to File > Options.
2. Select Display.
3. Under “Horizontal Tabs Layout Options,” check Move Page List to the Left.

Customize the Quick Access Toolbar

Navigating through multiple ribbon tabs to find frequent tools breaks concentration. The Quick Access Toolbar (QAT) resides at the very top of the window and serves as a shortcut hub for your essential commands.

To add tools via the Ribbon:

1. Navigate to the specific tool you use often (e.g., “Insert Table” or “Tags”).
2. Right-click the icon.
3. Select Add to Quick Access Toolbar.

To add tools via the Toolbar menu:

1. Click the small Down Arrow at the far right of the Quick Access Toolbar.
2. Select a command from the list or click More Commands for the full library.
3. Highlight your desired action and click Add.

Establish a Default Font

Manually adjusting font styles for every new page wastes significant time. Standardizing your typography ensures consistency across your notebooks without manual intervention.

1. Click File > Options.
2. Stay in the General tab.
3. Locate “Default font.” Select your preferred Font, Size, and Font Color.

OneNote applies these changes to all future pages. Note that existing pages retain their original formatting.

Pin OneNote with Dock to Desktop

Capturing fleeting ideas requires immediate access. The “Dock to Desktop” feature anchors a simplified OneNote window to the side of your monitor. This forces other open windows to resize around it, ensuring your notes remain visible during research or meetings.

1. Select the View tab.
2. Click Dock to Desktop.

The window snaps to the screen edge. To restore the standard view, click the Double-Headed Arrow (or ellipsis menu) at the top of the docked pane.

Disable Distracting Spell Checks

OneNote aggressively highlights unrecognizable words. For users documenting code, technical jargon, or shorthand, the constant red squiggly lines create visual clutter that hampers readability.

To disable automatic proofing:

1. Go to File > Options.
2. Select Proofing from the sidebar.
3. Uncheck Check spelling as you type.

You can still verify spelling manually by pressing F7 or selecting Spelling under the Review tab when you are ready to edit.

OneNote offers utility far beyond its default settings. By configuring the interface to match your cognitive style—whether through layout adjustments, font standardization, or access shortcuts—you transform the application into a specialized tool that supports, rather than hinders, your professional output.