Microsoft Account Errors

How to Change the Default Display Name in Microsoft OneNote

WPS Content Manager Oct 10, 2026 869 views

Question details

The user wants to change the default name that appears in the Microsoft OneNote application.

How to Change the Default Display Name in Microsoft OneNote

Product: Microsoft OneNote
Device & OS: not provided
Scenario: The user needs to update the display name associated with their OneNote app or rename a specific notebook.
Observed behavior: The name displayed in OneNote reflects the connected Microsoft account profile name rather than a specific OneNote app setting.

Before you start

Ensure you have your Microsoft account login credentials handy and an active internet connection, as updating your profile name requires accessing your account settings online.

Solution 1Recommended

Update Your Microsoft Account Profile Name

Since OneNote uses your Microsoft account details, you must change your profile name online to update the display name in the application.

The default name shown in OneNote is tied directly to the Microsoft account you used to sign in. To change it across OneNote and other Office applications, you will need to edit your main Microsoft account profile.

Sign in to Microsoft

Open your web browser, navigate to the Microsoft account website (account.microsoft.com), and log in with your credentials.

Access Your Info

Click on the 'Your info' tab located in the top navigation bar of your account dashboard.

Edit Profile Name

Under your current profile name, click on the 'Edit name' link.

Save Changes

Enter your desired first and last name, complete the CAPTCHA challenge if prompted, and click 'Save'.

Synchronization Delay: It may take up to 24-48 hours for the new name to synchronize and appear across all your connected Office applications, including OneNote.

Solution 2

Rename a Specific OneNote Notebook

If you are trying to change the name of a specific notebook rather than your account display name, you must rename the notebook file from its actual storage location.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Why isn't my new name showing up in OneNote right away?

Microsoft account changes can take up to 24 to 48 hours to fully sync across all connected apps and devices. To speed up the process, you can try signing out of OneNote and signing back in to force a sync.

Can I set a different display name just for OneNote?

No, the display name in OneNote is directly tied to the Microsoft account you use to sign in. Changing your Microsoft account profile name will change it across all Microsoft 365 apps and services.

How do I change my author name for edits in OneNote?

If you want to change the author name that appears next to your edits, open the OneNote desktop app, go to File > Options > General, and update the 'User name' and 'Initials' fields under the 'Personalize your copy of Microsoft Office' section.

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