Office Settings & Configuration

How to Fix OneNote Scratch-Out Gesture Not Erasing Ink

Algirdas Jasaitis Sep 25, 2026 876 views

Question details

Users need to resolve an issue where the stylus scratch-out gesture fails to erase handwritten notes in OneNote.

How to Fix OneNote Scratch-Out Gesture Not Erasing Ink

Product: Microsoft OneNote
Device & OS: Windows 11
Scenario: Attempting to erase digital ink using the scratch-out pen gesture while taking notes or annotating documents.
Observed behavior: The scratch-out gesture does not erase the ink, leaving the zigzag lines on the page instead, even when the setting is enabled and Office has been repaired or reinstalled.

Before you start

Before proceeding, verify that your active stylus or digital pen is properly connected to your Windows 11 device via Bluetooth and has sufficient battery charge to register continuous strokes.

Solution 1Recommended

Verify OneNote Version and Perfect the Gesture Technique

Ensure you are running a supported build of OneNote and use the precise, quick motion required to trigger the eraser function.

The scratch-out gesture relies heavily on stroke speed and coverage density. Even if the feature is enabled in your settings, drawing the zigzag too slowly or too sparsely will cause OneNote to interpret it as regular drawing ink rather than an eraser command.

Update OneNote to version 2407 or later

Open OneNote and navigate to File > Account. Click on 'Update Options' and select 'Update Now' to ensure you are on version 2407 or a newer build where gesture recognition is optimized.

Verify the gesture setting is enabled

Go to File > Options > Advanced. Scroll down to the Pen section and ensure the checkbox for 'Enable the scratch-out gesture while inking' is checked, then click OK.

Execute the gesture correctly

Using your stylus, quickly draw a dense series of loops or a tight zigzag pattern that covers the majority of the ink you want to erase. Do not lift the pen or pause while drawing the pattern.

Verify OneNote Version and Perfect the Gesture Technique

Practice Makes Perfect: It may take a few tries to get the speed and coverage right. Once OneNote recognizes the swift zigzag, the underlying ink and the scratch-out stroke will both disappear instantly.

Solution 2

Record and Report the Bug to Microsoft Support

If the gesture consistently fails despite proper technique and updates, gather diagnostic evidence to help developers isolate the Windows 11 compatibility issue.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I turn on the scratch-out gesture in OneNote?

Open OneNote and click on File > Options. Select the Advanced tab, scroll down to the Pen section, and check the box that says 'Enable the scratch-out gesture while inking'.

Why does my scratch-out gesture just leave ink behind instead of erasing?

This typically occurs if the zigzag or loop pattern is drawn too slowly, or if it doesn't adequately cover the underlying ink. Try drawing a faster, tighter zigzag that fully crosses over the text you wish to delete.

Does repairing Microsoft Office fix the scratch-out gesture?

Not always. While an Office repair can fix corrupted installation files, the scratch-out issue on Windows 11 is often related to specific build versions or gesture execution speed. Ensuring your app is updated to version 2407 or newer is generally more effective.

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