Formatting Issues

How to Change the Font of Selected Text in OneNote

Bushra Parveen Oct 8, 2026 868 views

Question details

The user wants to change the font and size of a specific word or phrase in OneNote without altering the formatting of the entire line or paragraph.

How to Change the Font of Selected Text in OneNote

Product: Microsoft OneNote
Device & OS: not provided
Scenario: Applying distinct text formatting to emphasize or distinguish specific words within a larger block of notes.
Observed behavior: The user needs a method to apply character-level formatting, such as font family and size, exclusively to selected text selections rather than entire paragraphs.

Before you start

Ensure you have precisely highlighted only the specific word or phrase you wish to modify so the formatting changes do not inadvertently apply to the surrounding text.

Solution 1Recommended

Use the Right-Click Context Menu

This is the most straightforward method to change the font and size of specific words directly from your current text selection.

OneNote allows character-level formatting natively, meaning you do not need to use complex macros or paragraph-level settings to style individual words.

Select the specific text

Using your mouse or keyboard, highlight the exact word or phrase you want to format in your OneNote page.

Open the context menu

Right-click on the highlighted text to open the formatting context menu.

Access Font settings

Click on the 'Font' option from the dropdown menu, which will open the font styling options.

Apply font and size

Select your desired font (for example, Consolas) and set the font size (such as 11), then click 'OK' to apply the changes.

Quick Formatting: You can also use the mini-toolbar that automatically appears when you highlight text to quickly change the font and size without fully opening the right-click menu.

Solution 2

Use the Font Dialog Keyboard Shortcut

Use a quick keyboard shortcut to immediately open the Font dialog box for faster editing without taking your hands off the keyboard.

Free Microsoft Office alternative

Discover WPS Office for Seamless Text Formatting and Document Creation

While OneNote is great for quick notes, if you find yourself needing more advanced document formatting and structured writing, WPS Office provides a comprehensive, lightweight, and free suite. It offers highly intuitive text formatting tools that make styling any document effortless.

1. Download and Install WPS Office: Visit the official WPS website to download the free suite and install it on your device.
2. Open a Document: Launch WPS Writer and open an existing document or create a new one to start writing.
3. Format Text Easily: Simply highlight any text and use the intuitive Home ribbon to instantly change fonts, sizes, and colors.

Free, comprehensive, and lightweight office suiteFully compatible with Microsoft Office formats (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)Easy-to-use text formatting interface for precise character stylingFamiliar ribbon UI ensures a seamless migration from Microsoft Office

microsoft office alternative - wps office

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I change the default font for all new OneNote pages?

Yes, you can change the default font for new pages. Go to File > Options > General, and look for the 'Default font' section to set your preferred font, size, and color for all future notes.

Is it possible to use the Format Painter in OneNote?

Yes, OneNote includes a Format Painter tool. You can highlight a word with your desired formatting, click the Format Painter icon on the Home tab, and then select another word to apply the same font and size instantly.

How do I reset text formatting to default in OneNote?

To remove custom fonts and sizes, select the modified text and press Ctrl + Spacebar, or click the 'Clear All Formatting' button (an 'A' with an eraser icon) located on the Home ribbon.

Why does my font change back when I start a new line?

OneNote often reverts to the application's default font when you create a new text container or sometimes when you start a completely new paragraph. Changing your global default font settings in the Options menu can resolve this.