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OneNote is a popular note-taking app that many use daily to organize their thoughts, tasks, and projects. However, sometimes OneNote may stop working properly on Windows 10. This can be frustrating, especially if you rely on it for important notes and reminders.

Fortunately, there are several simple steps you can follow to fix OneNote issues. Most problems can be resolved without needing advanced technical skills.

This guide will walk you through easy-to-understand solutions to get OneNote running smoothly again.

Whether OneNote won’t open, crashes, or syncs slowly, you’ll find helpful fixes below.

Quick Note: Before You Begin

Before trying any fixes, make sure to check these basic things:

• Internet Connection: OneNote often needs internet access to sync notebooks. Ensure your connection is stable.
• Windows Updates: Keeping Windows 10 updated can solve many app issues. Go to Settings > Update & Security and check for updates.
• OneNote Version: Confirm you have the latest version of OneNote installed from the Microsoft Store or Office suite.
• Restart Your PC: Sometimes a simple restart can fix temporary glitches.

Step 1: Restart OneNote

Closing and reopening OneNote is the easiest first step. This refreshes the app and clears minor bugs.

1. Click the close (X) button on OneNote to exit the program completely.
2. Wait a few seconds to ensure it fully closes.
3. Open OneNote again from the Start menu or taskbar shortcut.

If OneNote still doesn’t respond, move on to the next step.

Step 2: Check for App Updates

Outdated apps might not function well. Updating OneNote can fix bugs and improve performance.

1. Open the Microsoft Store app on your Windows 10 PC.
2. Click the three dots in the upper right corner and select Downloads and updates.
3. Click Get updates to check for available updates.
4. If OneNote shows up in the list, update it.
5. After updating, restart OneNote.

Step 3: Run the Windows Store Apps Troubleshooter

Windows has a built-in troubleshooter that can detect and fix problems with apps like OneNote.

1. Open Settings by pressing Windows + I.
2. Go to Update & Security > Troubleshoot.
3. Click Additional troubleshooters (if available).
4. Select Windows Store Apps and click Run the troubleshooter.
5. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the process.

This tool can automatically fix common app issues.

Step 4: Reset OneNote App

If OneNote is still not working, resetting the app can clear corrupted data or settings. This will not delete your notes because they are saved in the cloud.

1. Open Settings (Windows + I).
2. Go to Apps > Apps & features.
3. Scroll down and find OneNote in the list.
4. Click on OneNote, then select Advanced options.
5. Scroll down and click Reset. Confirm if prompted.
6. After resetting, open OneNote again and check if it works.

Step 5: Repair Office (If Using OneNote as Part of Microsoft Office)

If you use OneNote through Microsoft Office, repairing the Office installation can fix deeper issues.

1. Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog.
2. Type appwiz.cpl and press Enter to open Programs and Features.
3. Find Microsoft Office in the list and select it.
4. Click Change at the top.
5. Choose Quick Repair and follow the prompts.
6. If problems persist, repeat and select Online Repair instead (this takes longer and requires internet).

This fixes corrupted Office files that may affect OneNote.

Step 6: Check Sync Issues

OneNote depends on syncing to save your notes across devices. If syncing fails, your notes may not update or the app may freeze.

• Open OneNote and go to the notebook with issues.
• Click the File tab, then select View Sync Status.
• Look for any error messages or conflicts.
• If there are sync errors, try clicking Sync Now to force synchronization.
• Ensure you are signed in with the correct Microsoft account.

Fixing sync errors often resolves crashes and freezes.

Alternative Method: Use OneNote Online

If the OneNote app keeps failing, consider using OneNote Online. It works in your web browser and does not require installation.

This can be a temporary workaround while you troubleshoot the desktop app.

FAQs

Why won’t OneNote open on my Windows 10 PC?

OneNote may not open due to corrupted app data, outdated software, or temporary glitches. Restarting the app, updating it, or resetting can usually fix this.

Will resetting OneNote delete my notes?

No. OneNote stores your notes in the cloud (OneDrive), so resetting the app only clears local settings and cache, not your notes.

How do I know if OneNote is syncing properly?

You can check sync status by clicking File > View Sync Status inside OneNote. Sync errors will be displayed there.

Can I reinstall OneNote if nothing else works?

Yes. You can uninstall and reinstall OneNote from the Microsoft Store or through Office installation options. This often solves persistent problems.

Is OneNote free on Windows 10?

Yes, the basic OneNote app is free on Windows 10. There is also a OneNote version included with Microsoft Office, which may have extra features.

When Nothing Works

If you have tried all the steps above and OneNote still isn’t working, consider these final options:

• Contact Microsoft Support: Visit the official OneNote support page for help and troubleshooting tools.
• Create a New User Account: Sometimes user profile issues cause app problems. Creating a new Windows user account can confirm if this is the case.
• Reinstall Windows Updates: Occasionally, a recent Windows update can cause conflicts. Rolling back or reinstalling updates might help.
• Use OneNote Online: Access your notes through the web version at onenote.com as a temporary solution.

Conclusion

OneNote not working on Windows 10 can disrupt your workflow, but most issues have straightforward fixes. Starting with simple restarts and updates, then moving to app resets or Office repairs, usually resolves the problem.

Always make sure your Windows and OneNote app are up to date and that your internet connection is stable for syncing. If problems persist, using OneNote Online or contacting Microsoft support can provide additional help.

Following these step-by-step solutions will help you get back to taking notes with OneNote quickly and efficiently.