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How to Disable Text Containers in OneNote for Windows 10
Question details
The user wants to find out how to turn off or disable text containers in the OneNote for Windows 10 application.
- Product
- OneNote for Windows 10
- Device & OS
- Windows 10
- Scenario
- Attempting to type freely without the visual interference of text container borders popping up around the text.
- Observed behavior
- The option to disable note containers, which was previously available in OneNote 2016, is completely missing from the settings menu in OneNote for Windows 10.
Verify which version of OneNote you are using; OneNote for Windows 10 (the app with the left-side navigation) has been retired by Microsoft and lacks several advanced formatting options found in the traditional desktop version.
Switch to OneNote Desktop (formerly OneNote 2016)
Because the feature is completely unsupported in OneNote for Windows 10, the only way to disable text containers is to install and use the standard Microsoft OneNote desktop application.
Microsoft has discontinued updates for OneNote for Windows 10 and is migrating users to the unified OneNote desktop app. This traditional version retains the ability to hide note containers.
Navigate to the official Microsoft OneNote download page or the Microsoft Store, and download the application simply named 'OneNote' (previously known as OneNote 2016).
Launch the new OneNote desktop application. Click on 'File' in the top-left corner of the ribbon, and select 'Options' at the very bottom of the menu.
In the Options dialog box, click on the 'Display' tab in the left pane. Under the Display options, uncheck the box labeled 'Show note containers on pages' and click 'OK' to apply the changes.
Submit a Feature Request via the Feedback Portal
If you wish to voice your need for container-free typing or layout improvements, you can submit feedback directly to Microsoft's development team.
Try WPS Office for Your Note-Taking and Document Needs
If you are frustrated by the limitations of differing Microsoft app versions, consider trying WPS Office. It provides a stable, lightweight, and comprehensive suite for all your document creation needs without the hassle of missing features.
- 1. Download WPS Office: Visit the official WPS website and download the free installation package for Windows.
- 2. Install the software: Run the installer and follow the on-screen instructions to set up the suite on your computer.
- 3. Start taking notes: Open WPS Writer to enjoy a distraction-free, fully customizable word processing environment perfect for extensive note-taking.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is the 'Show note containers' option missing in OneNote for Windows 10?
OneNote for Windows 10 was built from the ground up as a streamlined Universal Windows Platform (UWP) app. To keep the app lightweight and touch-friendly, Microsoft omitted several legacy layout and customization settings found in the desktop version.
How do I know which version of OneNote I am currently using?
OneNote for Windows 10 features a simplified navigation pane on the left side of the screen. The standard OneNote desktop app (formerly OneNote 2016) typically displays colorful notebook section tabs across the top of the page and features a traditional Microsoft Office ribbon.
Will disabling text containers affect how my notes print or export?
No. The option to disable text containers only hides the visible borders and move-handles on your screen while you are typing or hovering over text. It does not alter the actual page layout, and printed or exported PDF notes will look exactly the same.
Can I still use OneNote for Windows 10 even though it is retired?
Yes, you can continue to use OneNote for Windows 10 until it reaches its end of support in October 2025. However, since it will not receive any new feature updates, you will need to migrate to the desktop version if you require missing features like disabling text containers.
