'%3e%3cpath%20d='M8%200C12.4183%200%2016%203.58172%2016%208C16%2012.4183%2012.4183%2016%208%2016C3.58172%2016%200%2012.4183%200%208C0%203.58172%203.58172%200%208%200ZM11.6162%204.38379C11.2257%203.99337%2010.5927%203.99338%2010.2021%204.38379L8%206.58594L5.79785%204.38379C5.40732%203.99334%204.77429%203.99329%204.38379%204.38379C3.99331%204.77429%203.99335%205.40733%204.38379%205.79785L6.58594%208L4.38379%2010.2021C3.99348%2010.5927%203.99341%2011.2257%204.38379%2011.6162C4.77426%2012.0066%205.40734%2012.0065%205.79785%2011.6162L8%209.41406L10.2021%2011.6162C10.5927%2012.0066%2011.2257%2012.0067%2011.6162%2011.6162C12.0067%2011.2257%2012.0066%2010.5927%2011.6162%2010.2021L9.41406%208L11.6162%205.79785C12.0066%205.40735%2012.0066%204.77429%2011.6162%204.38379Z'%20fill='%23080E17'%20fill-opacity='0.46'/%3e%3c/g%3e%3cdefs%3e%3cclipPath%20id='clip0_3761_713'%3e%3crect%20width='16'%20height='16'%20fill='white'/%3e%3c/clipPath%3e%3c/defs%3e%3c/svg%3e)
How to Restore the Classic Drawing Tools Interface in OneNote
Question details
Users are trying to revert the Microsoft OneNote drawing toolbar from the new interface back to the classic rectangular pen layout.
- Product
- Microsoft OneNote
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- Using drawing and inking tools in OneNote after a recent Microsoft 365 software update.
- Observed behavior
- The drawing toolbar has changed to a new layout, and options like Ink to Shape or Ink to Text do not restore the classic rectangular pens.
Verify your current version of Microsoft OneNote to confirm if your account is part of the recent graphical user interface rollout, as this change is implemented at the account and app level.
Adapt to the New OneNote Drawing Interface
Understand the permanent changes to the OneNote interface and how to navigate the new drawing layout.
Microsoft is rolling out a new graphical user interface for OneNote across Microsoft 365. This update permanently replaces the classic rectangular pen layout with a modernized drawing tools interface.
Because this is a global interface update rather than a configurable setting, there is no supported way to switch back to the older layout.
Navigate to the 'Draw' tab on the OneNote ribbon to find the newly updated pens, highlighters, and drawing accessories.
Do not attempt to use the 'Ink to Shape' or 'Ink to Text' buttons to change the layout. These tools are strictly for converting handwriting into digital text or geometric shapes and will not modify the user interface.
Submit Feature Feedback to Microsoft
Since the interface cannot be reverted manually, submitting feedback is the official channel to request the return of the classic layout.
Looking for a Stable and Familiar Office Experience?
If frequent interface changes and forced updates in Microsoft Office disrupt your workflow, consider switching to WPS Office. It offers a highly familiar, stable user interface that feels like the classic Office you know and love, allowing you to focus on your work without unexpected UI overhauls.
- 1. Download the Installer: Visit the official WPS Office website and click the free download button for your operating system.
- 2. Install WPS Office: Run the downloaded installation file and follow the simple on-screen instructions to set up the software.
- 3. Enjoy Familiar Tools: Launch WPS Office and open a new document, spreadsheet, or PDF to access stable, classic toolbars designed for maximum productivity.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the Ink to Shape feature restore the old drawing toolbar?
No. The Ink to Shape and Ink to Text features are designed solely to convert handwritten notes into digital text or geometric shapes. They do not alter the appearance or layout of the OneNote drawing ribbon.
Can I uninstall recent Microsoft 365 updates to get the classic OneNote pens back?
While rolling back to an older version of Microsoft 365 might temporarily restore the old interface, it is highly discouraged. Doing so can expose your device to security vulnerabilities, and the application will eventually force an update back to the new layout.
Will Microsoft bring back the classic drawing interface in future updates?
As of now, Microsoft has not announced any plans to restore the classic rectangular pen layout. Submitting user feedback directly through the OneNote application is the best way to let their development team know about your feature preferences.
