Office Apps Not Opening

Fix OneNote Not Opening from Surface Slim Pen 2 Shortcuts

Emma Brown Oct 12, 2026 868 views

Question details

The user is unable to launch the OneNote application using the top-button shortcuts on their Surface Slim Pen 2.

How to Fix OneNote Not Opening from Surface Slim Pen 2 Shortcuts

Product: Microsoft OneNote, Surface Slim Pen 2
Device & OS: Windows
Scenario: Attempting to quickly launch OneNote or take a note using the physical shortcut buttons on the Surface Slim Pen 2.
Observed behavior: OneNote fails to launch when the pen shortcut is pressed, and the application may also stop responding to stylus input altogether.

Before you start

Ensure that your Surface Slim Pen 2 is sufficiently charged and actively paired with your Windows device via Bluetooth before adjusting any system settings.

Solution 1Recommended

Verify Pen & Windows Ink Shortcut Assignments

Check your Windows settings to ensure the pen's top button is correctly mapped to launch OneNote.

If the Bluetooth connection is interrupted or settings are reset, the system might lose the specific shortcut assignment for your Surface Pen. Re-assigning the top button usually restores functionality.

Open Windows Settings

Click the Start menu and select Settings, or press the Windows key + I on your keyboard.

Navigate to Pen Settings

Click on Bluetooth & devices in the left sidebar, then select Pen & Windows Ink from the list of options.

Check Shortcut Actions

Scroll down to the 'Choose what your pen does' section. Verify that the Single-click, Double-click, or Press and hold actions are explicitly set to open OneNote.

Verify Pen & Windows Ink Shortcut Assignments

Re-pairing the Pen: If the pen does not appear in the settings at all, go to Bluetooth & devices, select Add device, and hold the pen's top button for 7 seconds to pair it again.

Solution 2

Repair the OneNote Application

Use the built-in Windows app repair tool to fix potential application corruptions preventing OneNote from responding.

Solution 3

Update Windows and OneNote

Install the latest system and app updates to resolve known bugs and compatibility issues between Windows Ink and OneNote.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my Surface Pen connected but not writing in OneNote?

This can happen if the pen tip is loose or damaged, the battery is critically low, or the application has temporarily frozen. Try gently pushing the pen tip in to ensure it is secure, replacing the AAAA battery (if applicable), and restarting the OneNote app.

Can I customize the Surface Pen buttons for apps other than OneNote?

Yes. By navigating to Settings > Bluetooth & devices > Pen & Windows Ink, you can customize the top button to launch any installed application, take a screenshot, or perform specific Windows commands.

How do I factory reset my Surface Slim Pen 2?

To reset the pen, press and hold the top button for about 7 seconds until the LED light flashes white. This places the pen back into pairing mode. You can then go to your Bluetooth settings, remove the old pen connection, and pair it again as a new device.