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How to Move OneNote Tabs from the Left to the Top
Question details
The user wants to customize their OneNote workspace by changing the layout so that section tabs appear horizontally across the top rather than vertically on the left.
- Product
- Microsoft OneNote
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- Customizing the OneNote user interface to restore a familiar layout or optimize screen space.
- Observed behavior
- The section tabs are currently displayed on the left side of the screen, and the desired state is for them to be positioned at the top of the notebook.
Verify which version of OneNote you are using (OneNote Desktop app vs. OneNote for Windows 10), as the exact menu names and layout capabilities differ between versions.
Use the Tabs Layout Option in OneNote Desktop
Switch back to the classic horizontal layout using the built-in View settings in the main OneNote desktop application.
In recent updates to Microsoft 365, OneNote introduced a unified vertical layout. However, users of the standard desktop version can easily toggle back to the classic horizontal view where tabs sit across the top of the workspace.
Launch the standard OneNote desktop application on your computer.
Click on the 'View' tab located in the top ribbon menu of the application.
In the Views group on the ribbon, locate and click the 'Tabs Layout' button.
Choose 'Horizontal Tabs' from the drop-down menu. Your section tabs will immediately move from the left side to the top of the notebook.
Adjust Options in Older OneNote Desktop Versions
For older versions of OneNote (like OneNote 2016 or un-updated versions), layout preferences are managed through the File Options menu.
Understanding OneNote for Windows 10 Limitations
OneNote for Windows 10 forces a left-aligned layout and does not support top tabs.
Experience a Clean and Customizable Workspace with WPS Office
While tweaking interface settings in apps like OneNote can optimize your workflow, managing Word documents, Excel spreadsheets, and PowerPoint presentations requires a powerful, reliable suite. WPS Office offers a completely customizable, tab-based interface that feels instantly familiar, completely free of charge.
- 1. Download WPS Office: Visit the official WPS website and download the free installer for your operating system.
- 2. Install and Launch: Run the installer, open WPS Office, and customize your workspace layout to your liking.
- 3. Open Office Files: Drag and drop your existing Microsoft Office files into WPS to continue working seamlessly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did my OneNote tabs suddenly move to the left?
Microsoft recently updated the OneNote user interface to bring it in line with other Microsoft 365 web applications, which use a vertical, left-aligned navigation pane by default. You can easily switch this back via the View > Tabs Layout menu.
Can I move my page tabs to the left side as well?
Yes. If you prefer your page list on the left instead of the right, go to File > Options > Display in the desktop app, and check the box that says 'Page tabs appear on the left'.
Is the Horizontal Tabs option available in OneNote for Mac?
Currently, OneNote for Mac primarily supports the modern vertical layout on the left side to align with macOS app standards. The horizontal top tab feature is predominantly available on the Windows desktop application.
Will I lose my notes if I switch from OneNote for Windows 10 to the OneNote Desktop app?
No, your notes are synced to your Microsoft account via OneDrive. When you log into the OneNote desktop app with the same account, all your notebooks will sync automatically, allowing you to use top tabs without losing data.
