How to Keep the Taskbar Visible in OneNote Full-Screen Mode
Question details
The user wants to prevent the Windows taskbar from hiding when switching to full-screen mode in Microsoft OneNote.

- Product
- Microsoft OneNote
- Device & OS
- Windows
- Scenario
- Working or presenting in OneNote's full-screen mode while needing quick access to other apps, time, or system notifications.
- Observed behavior
- The Windows taskbar is completely hidden by default when OneNote enters full-screen mode, restricting immediate access to the system tray.
Ensure you are using the desktop version of Microsoft OneNote (formerly OneNote 2016 or part of Microsoft 365), as display settings can vary significantly compared to OneNote for Windows 10.
Modify Display Settings in OneNote Options
Adjust the built-in OneNote display settings to ensure the Windows taskbar remains pinned during full-screen sessions.
The standard desktop version of OneNote includes a specific toggle designed to override the default full-screen behavior and keep your taskbar accessible.
Launch Microsoft OneNote. Click on 'File' in the top-left corner of the ribbon, then select 'Options' located at the bottom of the left-hand menu.
In the OneNote Options dialog box, click on 'Display' from the categories listed in the left sidebar.
Look for the setting related to full-screen mode. Check the box labeled 'Keep taskbar visible' (or similarly named depending on your exact version) and click 'OK' to save your changes.

Verify Windows Taskbar Auto-Hide Settings
If OneNote settings do not resolve the issue, ensure that your Windows taskbar is not configured to hide itself automatically.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Why does my taskbar disappear only in OneNote?
By default, OneNote's full-screen mode is designed to maximize your digital workspace by hiding all system UI elements, including the taskbar. This helps minimize distractions, but the behavior can be overridden in the Display options for the desktop version.
Can I use a keyboard shortcut to show the taskbar temporarily?
Yes. If the taskbar is hidden while you are in full-screen mode, simply pressing the Windows key on your keyboard will temporarily bring up the taskbar and the Start menu without exiting your full-screen session.
What if the 'Keep taskbar visible' option is missing from my settings?
This specific setting is primarily available in the OneNote desktop application. If you are using the UWP version (OneNote for Windows 10), this option is not present, and the app relies on the operating system's default full-screen behavior. You may need to switch to the standard desktop version of OneNote to access this feature.




