Office Settings & Configuration

Fix OneNote for Windows 10 Keeps Selecting Objects Instead of Drawing

Maira Mehtab Nov 2, 2026 868 views

Question details

The user is experiencing an issue where OneNote for Windows 10 constantly switches from drawing mode to the 'Select Objects or Type Text' mode. They are also unable to locate the local backup settings.

How to Fix OneNote for Windows 10 Selecting Objects Instead of Drawing

Product: OneNote for Windows 10
Device & OS: Windows 10
Scenario: Drawing, writing, or taking handwritten notes with a stylus or touch input.
Observed behavior: The application automatically reverts to selecting objects instead of allowing continuous drawing, and the desktop backup options (File > Options > Save & Backup) are missing.

Before you start

Ensure your stylus pen has sufficient battery charge and the tip is securely attached, as hardware input glitches can sometimes trigger unintended touch commands.

Solution 1Recommended

Update OneNote and Troubleshoot Stylus Input

Updating the application through the Microsoft Store often resolves drawing glitches, and isolating the stylus helps determine if the issue is hardware-related.

Update the App

Open the Microsoft Store on your computer, click the Menu (or Library icon), go to Downloads and Updates, and install any available updates for OneNote for Windows 10.

Test Without Stylus

Attempt to draw using your finger or a standard computer mouse to see if the tool still switches automatically. If it draws normally, the issue may lie with your stylus hardware or drivers.

Check Notebook Scope

Create a completely new notebook and try drawing in it. This helps determine if the glitch is isolated to a specific corrupted notebook or affects the entire application.

Update OneNote and Troubleshoot Stylus Input

App Version Differences: OneNote for Windows 10 is updated via the Microsoft Store, unlike the standard OneNote desktop app which is updated alongside Microsoft Office.

Solution 2

Understand Missing Backup Options in Windows 10 App

Clarification on why standard desktop instructions for backups do not work on the Windows 10 version.

Free Microsoft Office alternative

Try WPS Office for Seamless Document Annotation

If you are frustrated by OneNote's tool-switching glitches and confusing app versions, WPS Office offers a stable, lightweight alternative. It provides excellent PDF annotation and document editing tools with familiar interfaces and smooth cloud synchronization.

1. Download and Install: Visit the official WPS website to download the free office suite and install it on your Windows device.
2. Open Your Documents: Launch WPS Office and easily create a new document or open your existing Word files and PDFs.
3. Draw and Annotate: Navigate to the Draw or Comment tab to use stable stylus and drawing tools without the frustration of constant tool switching.

Free and lightweight office suite with no confusing multiple app versionsBuilt-in PDF reader with smooth drawing, highlighting, and annotation toolsHighly compatible with Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint formatsSeamless cloud syncing and local saving options for complete data control

microsoft office alternative - wps office

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does OneNote keep switching to the text cursor when drawing?

This typically occurs due to an outdated app version, a failing stylus battery, or a bug in how Windows processes palm rejection. Updating the app via the Microsoft Store and checking stylus drivers often resolves the issue.

Where is the File menu in OneNote for Windows 10?

OneNote for Windows 10 does not have a traditional File menu. Settings, printing, and other options are accessed by clicking the three dots (Settings and More) in the upper-right corner of the application.

How do I backup my notes locally in OneNote for Windows 10?

Unlike the desktop version of OneNote, the Windows 10 app does not support local backups. It automatically synchronizes all your notebooks directly to your Microsoft OneDrive account.

Office App Problems