How to Fix OneNote Lasso Tool Not Working with a Pen
Question details
The user is unable to activate the lasso tool in OneNote using a pen long-press after a recent software update.
- Product
- Microsoft OneNote
- Device & OS
- Windows 11
- Scenario
- Using a drawing tablet (like Wacom Intuos) to select items in OneNote via the lasso tool shortcut.
- Observed behavior
- Long-pressing with the pen no longer triggers the lasso tool, despite the feature functioning correctly prior to a OneNote update.
Before troubleshooting, ensure your tablet is securely connected, the pen is fully charged (if applicable), and verify that the lasso tool can still be activated manually using a standard computer mouse.
Update Drivers and Test in OneNote for the Web
Updating your Wacom drivers and testing the web version helps determine if the issue is a system-level hardware conflict or specific to the desktop app.
Often, a mismatch between a newly updated Windows OS and older peripheral drivers can break specific pen gestures like the long-press to lasso.
Open the Wacom Desktop Center application and check for any available driver updates. Download and install the latest version for your Wacom Intuos.
Navigate to Windows Settings > Windows Update and install any pending updates for Windows 11.
Log into OneNote for the web through your browser. Try using the pen's long-press gesture to see if the lasso tool activates, which indicates the hardware works properly.
Repair the Microsoft 365 Installation
Running the built-in Windows repair tool can fix corrupted Office application files that prevent pen features from functioning correctly.
Perform a Clean Boot to Identify Conflicts
Starting Windows with a minimal set of drivers and startup programs can identify background applications interfering with your pen input.
Switch to WPS Office for a Seamless Experience
If persistent Microsoft Office app bugs disrupt your workflow, consider trying WPS Office. It provides a lightweight, highly compatible, and free alternative with robust support for your essential document, spreadsheet, and presentation needs.
- 1. Download WPS Office: Visit the official WPS website to download the free installer for Windows.
- 2. Install the Application: Run the downloaded file and follow the quick on-screen instructions.
- 3. Open Your Documents: Launch WPS Office and instantly open your existing Microsoft Office files without formatting loss.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does my Wacom pen long-press act as a right-click instead of the lasso tool?
This is often a Windows Ink setting conflict. You can adjust pen behavior in Windows Settings > Bluetooth & devices > Pen & Windows Ink to ensure long-press is configured correctly for your applications.
Can I manually select the lasso tool without the pen shortcut?
Yes, you can manually activate the lasso tool by navigating to the Draw tab on the OneNote ribbon and clicking the Lasso Select icon before dragging over your notes.
Does this pen issue affect all OneNote notebooks?
Typically, input tool issues are application-wide. However, creating a new notebook and testing the pen can help rule out file-specific corruption. If it works in a new notebook, your original file might need to be synced and rebuilt.
