Document Editing Problems

Does OneNote Have a Find and Replace All Feature? Troubleshooting and Workarounds

Kushani Nimanthika Sep 28, 2026 870 views

Question details

Users need to find and replace multiple instances of text simultaneously within a document.

How to Work Around the Missing Find and Replace All Feature in Microsoft OneNote

Product: Microsoft OneNote
Device & OS: not provided
Scenario: Attempting to make large-scale text changes or correct repetitive errors across a notes page or notebook.
Observed behavior: OneNote does not provide a built-in Find and Replace All tool, forcing users to manually locate and replace each instance of the text.

Before you start

Before proceeding, determine whether you need to replace text on a single notes page or across an entire notebook, as this will help you choose the most efficient workaround.

Solution 1Recommended

Use a Word Processor to Find and Replace All

This is the most efficient and reliable method for extensive text replacements, utilizing the built-in capabilities of a dedicated word processor.

Since OneNote lacks this native feature, utilizing a fully featured document editor like Microsoft Word or WPS Writer bridges the gap without requiring third-party plugins.

Copy Text from OneNote

Click and drag to highlight the text you want to edit in OneNote, then press Ctrl+C (Windows) or Cmd+C (Mac) to copy it.

Paste into a Word Processor

Open a blank document in Microsoft Word or WPS Writer and press Ctrl+V (Windows) or Cmd+V (Mac) to paste the content.

Execute Find and Replace All

Press Ctrl+H to open the Find and Replace dialog box. Enter the text you want to find and the new text you wish to insert, then click 'Replace All'.

Return the Edited Text to OneNote

Select all the updated text in your word processor (Ctrl+A), copy it, and paste it back over the original text in your OneNote page.

Use a Word Processor to Find and Replace All

Formatting Preservation: Copying and pasting between OneNote and mainstream word processors generally preserves your text formatting, including bolding, lists, and basic layouts.

Solution 2

Use Native Search for Manual Replacement

Best for minor edits where you only need to change a handful of words on a single page.

Solution 3

Install a Third-Party Add-in (Onetastic)

For heavy users of the Windows desktop version of OneNote, adding macro capabilities can introduce a native-like Find and Replace function.

Free Microsoft Office alternative

Experience Powerful Document Editing with WPS Office

Frustrated by the lack of essential editing tools like Find and Replace All? WPS Office is a free, lightweight Microsoft Office alternative that includes WPS Writer, a robust word processor designed to handle complex text edits effortlessly. With excellent format compatibility, a familiar interface, and comprehensive built-in tools, WPS Office ensures your productivity never stalls.

1. Download and Install: Get the free WPS Office suite from the official website and launch WPS Writer.
2. Use Find and Replace: Paste your text into a blank document, press Ctrl+H to open the replacement tool, and instantly update all occurrences.
3. Save or Transfer: Save your document in a universally recognized format, or simply copy the corrected text back to your note-taking app.

Fully functional 'Find and Replace All' tool for rapid, large-scale text editing.Seamlessly compatible with Microsoft Word (.docx), Excel, and PowerPoint file formats.Lightweight application that runs smoothly across Windows, Mac, Linux, and mobile devices.Free to use with a familiar, tabbed interface that requires zero learning curve.

microsoft office alternative - wps office

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Microsoft planning to add Find and Replace to OneNote?

Despite widespread requests from users over many years, Microsoft has not officially integrated a native Find and Replace All feature into standard versions of OneNote as of recent updates.

Can I use the Ctrl+H shortcut in OneNote?

No, pressing Ctrl+H in OneNote does not open a Find and Replace dialog box like it does in Microsoft Word or Excel. You can only use Ctrl+F to find specific text.

Does OneNote for Mac have a search and replace function?

Just like the Windows version, OneNote for Mac lacks a built-in search and replace functionality. Mac users must rely on manual search (Cmd+F) or copy the text into Apple Pages, Microsoft Word, or WPS Writer to perform bulk replacements.

Why is Find and Replace missing from OneNote when Word has it?

OneNote is fundamentally designed as a free-form digital canvas and note-taking application rather than a strict word processor. Its unique data structure handles text differently than Word, which is likely why global text replacement tools haven't been prioritized by the developers.

Document & File Issues