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How to Keep OneNote Section Tabs Horizontal and Move Pages to the Left
Question details
The user wants to configure the OneNote interface so that section tabs remain horizontal across the top, while the page navigation list is positioned on the left side of the screen.
- Product
- Microsoft OneNote
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- Customizing the workspace layout for better navigation and personal visual preference.
- Observed behavior
- Modern OneNote layouts often force vertical section tabs if the page list is on the left, or place the page list on the right if horizontal section tabs are used.
Check which version of OneNote you are using (e.g., OneNote Desktop/2016, OneNote for Windows 10, or Web), as the layout customization options differ significantly between versions.
Adjust Display Options in Classic OneNote Desktop
If you are using the classic OneNote desktop application, you can adjust the display settings to move the page list to the left while keeping section tabs at the top.
The classic OneNote desktop app provides the most flexibility for layout adjustments, allowing you to combine horizontal section tabs with a left-aligned page pane.
Launch the OneNote desktop application. Click on 'File' in the top-left corner of the window, then select 'Options' from the bottom of the menu.
In the OneNote Options dialog box, click on the 'Display' tab located in the left-hand sidebar.
Look for the option that says 'Page tabs appear on the left'. Check this box and click 'OK' to apply the changes. Your page list will now appear on the left while section tabs remain horizontal.
Using the Tabs Layout Feature in Newer Updates
For users on newer builds of OneNote that introduced the unified interface, you can toggle between basic layout modes.
Enjoy a Clutter-Free Workspace with WPS Office
If strict layout constraints in Microsoft Office apps disrupt your workflow, consider trying WPS Office. As a lightweight, highly customizable alternative, it offers intuitive document management and seamless compatibility without the steep learning curve.
- 1. Download the Installer: Visit the official WPS Office website and click the Free Download button.
- 2. Install WPS Office: Run the downloaded installer and follow the on-screen instructions to complete the setup.
- 3. Start Creating: Open WPS Office and enjoy a highly customizable, tabbed workspace for all your productivity needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I have horizontal section tabs and a left page list in OneNote for Windows 10?
No, OneNote for Windows 10 uses a fixed vertical layout where both the section tabs and page list are anchored to the left side of the screen. It does not support horizontal top tabs.
Why did my OneNote layout suddenly change to vertical tabs?
Microsoft rolled out a visual update that aligns the Windows desktop layout with the Mac, iPad, and Web versions. This unified interface defaults to vertical tabs on the left side.
How do I move the page pane back to the right?
In the classic OneNote desktop app, go to File > Options > Display, and uncheck 'Page tabs appear on the left'. In modern builds, selecting 'Horizontal Tabs' from the View menu automatically moves pages to the right.
Is it possible to pin the notebook navigation pane?
Yes, you can click the pin icon (which looks like a pushpin) at the top of the notebook or page list to keep the navigation pane open while you work.
