How to Adjust OneNote Notebook and Page List Spacing
Question details
Users are looking for a way to reduce the horizontal and vertical spacing in OneNote notebook, section, and page lists to fit more information on the screen without excessive scrolling.
- Product
- Microsoft OneNote
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- Managing notebook layouts after a software update altered the default display padding.
- Observed behavior
- Recent software updates have increased the vertical row spacing and the horizontal positioning between icons and text, removing the previous compact view.
Verify your current version of OneNote, as recent interface updates have universally altered default padding. Check whether the spacing changes are affecting just one notebook or the entire application layout.
Submit Feedback for Missing Compact View
Since modern versions of OneNote do not offer a built-in user setting to restore the previous compact spacing, the most effective action is to formally request the feature's return through the app.
Microsoft frequently rolls out UI adjustments that optimize touch interfaces, which often results in wider spacing. Because there is no hidden toggle to revert this specific layout change, gathering user feedback is the primary way to prompt developers to reintroduce a 'Compact View' option.
Launch OneNote and click on the 'File' tab in the top-left corner, then select 'Account' to verify your version number.
Click on 'Help' in the top ribbon menu and select the 'Feedback' button.
Choose 'I have a suggestion' or 'Report a problem'. Clearly state that the increased vertical and horizontal spacing in the notebook and page lists reduces visibility and requires excessive scrolling.
Include a screenshot if prompted, highlighting the oversized gaps between the section icons and text, and click submit.
Adjust System Display Scaling
If all application elements feel too large and spaced out, reducing your overall Windows system display scaling can help fit more list items on your screen.
Try WPS Office for a Customizable and Efficient Workspace
When forced interface updates in Microsoft Office apps disrupt your workflow by removing compact views and familiar layouts, it might be time to consider a highly customizable alternative. WPS Office provides a clean, user-friendly, and lightweight environment for all your document needs without unexpected interface bloat.
- 1. Download the Installer: Visit the official WPS Office website and click the free download button.
- 2. Install WPS Office: Run the downloaded installer file and follow the quick setup instructions.
- 3. Open Your Files: Launch WPS Office to easily open and manage all your existing Microsoft Office documents in a unified, customizable workspace.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did the spacing in my OneNote lists suddenly increase?
Microsoft regularly updates the user interface of Office applications to accommodate touch-screen users and align with newer design languages like Windows 11. These updates often result in larger icons and increased padding between list items.
Is there a hidden setting to enable Compact View in OneNote?
Currently, modern desktop and Windows 10 versions of OneNote do not have a user-accessible 'Compact View' setting to reduce the vertical or horizontal spacing in notebook or page lists.
Can I roll back to an older version of OneNote to get the old spacing back?
While rolling back is technically possible for enterprise users via the Office Deployment Tool, it is generally not recommended for standard users due to security risks. The best approach is to submit feedback requesting the return of compact spacing.
