How to Find, Delete, Back Up, and Import OneNote Notebooks
Question details
The user needs instructions on how to locate, delete, back up, and export OneNote notebooks, as well as how to import notes from Evernote into OneNote.
- Product
- Microsoft OneNote
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- Managing OneNote notebooks that are automatically synchronized through OneDrive, which prevents the use of standard file management workflows.
- Observed behavior
- OneNote notebooks do not behave like standard Word or Excel files and lack a traditional Save As function, creating confusion around managing, deleting, and backing up data.
Ensure your computer is connected to the internet so that OneDrive can finish synchronizing your most recent notes before you attempt to back up or export your notebooks.
Back Up and Export Your OneNote Notebooks
Use the built-in OneNote settings to locate your local backup folders and export a portable copy of your notebook for safe keeping.
Because OneNote notebooks synchronize automatically through OneDrive, you cannot simply use a 'Save As' command. Instead, you must use the dedicated Save and Backup features to create standalone copies of your data.
Open the OneNote desktop application, click on 'File' in the top-left corner, and then select 'Options' from the menu.
In the Options window, click on 'Save and Backup' on the left side. Here, you can view the path to your Backup Folder, which is generally stored in your computer's hidden AppData directory.
To manually create a portable backup file, go back to 'File', click 'Export', select 'Notebook' under 'Export Current', choose the 'OneNote Package' format, and click 'Export' to save it to your desired location.
Properly Delete a OneNote Notebook
Follow the correct procedure to permanently remove a OneNote notebook from your OneDrive storage.
Import Content from Evernote
Check current Microsoft resources and community discussions for up-to-date methods on importing Evernote notebooks.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Why can't I just use 'Save As' for my OneNote notebooks?
OneNote synchronizes notebooks automatically through OneDrive to ensure your notes are updated in real-time across all devices. Because it continuously syncs block-level changes rather than saving the whole file at once, it does not use a traditional 'Save As' workflow.
Where are my local OneNote backups stored by default?
By default, OneNote local backups are typically stored in your computer's hidden AppData folder. You can verify the exact file path by opening the OneNote desktop app, clicking File > Options, and selecting Save and Backup.
Does deleting a notebook in the OneNote app delete it from my computer?
No, right-clicking and choosing 'Close This Notebook' in the OneNote app only removes it from your view. To permanently delete the notebook, you must log into OneDrive via your web browser, locate the notebook file, and delete it there.
Is the OneNote Importer tool still available for Evernote?
Microsoft has historically provided a OneNote Importer tool to migrate Evernote content, but its availability and functionality are subject to change. It is highly recommended to check current Microsoft Support articles or community forums for the latest status on Evernote migration options.
