Changing the default font in OneNote 2013 is a simple process that can be completed in a few steps. First, open OneNote and select the File tab, then Options. In the OneNote Options dialog box, go to the General tab and look for the “Default font” section. Here, you can choose your preferred font along with the size, and then click OK to apply the changes. Now, all new notes you create will use your selected default font.
After you change the default font, any new pages or sections you add to your notebooks will automatically use the new settings. However, existing notes will retain their original font unless you manually update them.
Introduction
The ability to personalize your digital notebook is one of the many reasons why OneNote 2013 remains a popular choice for note-taking and organization. Whether you’re a student compiling lecture notes, a professional tracking project tasks, or someone who enjoys keeping a digital journal, the font you use can significantly impact the readability and overall aesthetic of your notes.
Why bother changing the default font, you might ask? Well, font choice can be quite personal. You may find that the pre-set font doesn’t suit your style or isn’t easy on the eyes during long reading sessions. Maybe you have a favorite font that keeps you motivated or helps with dyslexia. Whatever the reason, customizing the default font ensures that your notes are uniquely yours and catered to your preferences. This article will guide you through the steps to change the default font in OneNote 2013, making your note-taking experience more personalized and enjoyable.
Step by Step Tutorial: Changing the Default Font in OneNote 2013
Before diving into the steps, it’s important to understand that changing the default font will affect the appearance of your notes moving forward. It’s a way to make your notes feel more like “you.”
Step 1: Open the OneNote Options Dialog Box
To begin, open OneNote 2013 and click on the File tab to access the backstage view.
In the backstage view, you’ll find a host of settings that can customize your OneNote experience. Selecting Options will take you to the place where all the magic happens.
Step 2: Navigate to the General Tab
In the OneNote Options dialog box, click on the General tab to find font settings.
The General tab houses various preferences for how OneNote operates, but we’re focused on the font settings, usually found toward the top of this tab.
Step 3: Choose Your Preferred Default Font and Size
Under the Default font section, click on the font dropdown menu to select your preferred font and set the size you’re most comfortable with.
Choosing the right font and size is crucial for readability and comfort. Be sure to select a font that’s clear and a size that doesn’t strain your eyes.
Step 4: Save Your Changes
After selecting your font and size, click the OK button to apply the changes and close the dialog box.
Clicking OK saves your preferences, making your selected font the new standard for all future content.
Pros
| Benefit | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Personalization | Choosing your own default font allows you to personalize your digital notebook to fit your style or needs. |
Personalizing your OneNote with a font that speaks to your taste can make the note-taking experience much more enjoyable and tailored to your preferences.
| Improved Readability | A font that’s easier on your eyes can improve the overall readability of your notes. |
Selecting a font that’s clear and legible can have a significant positive impact on your ability to review and comprehend your notes.
| Increased Productivity | A font that you like can motivate you to write more and keep your notes organized. |
Being happy with the appearance of your notes can lead to increased motivation to use OneNote, which in turn can boost productivity and organization.
Cons
| Drawback | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Limited to New Content | The new default font applies only to new pages and sections, not existing ones. |
While your new notes will have the selected font, you’ll need to manually change the font for any existing content, which can be time-consuming.
| Compatibility Issues | Some fonts may not display correctly on other devices or when shared. |
Not all fonts are available on every device, so if you share your notes, the recipient may not see them as you intended.
| Overwhelming Choices | With so many fonts available, it can be overwhelming to choose just one. |
The abundance of font options can lead to indecision or constant changing, which can disrupt the consistency of your notes.
Additional Information
While changing the default font in OneNote 2013 is a fairly straightforward process, there are some additional considerations to keep in mind. For instance, if you’re someone who uses OneNote across multiple devices, it’s important to choose a font that’s widely available to maintain consistency. Additionally, if you’re sharing notebooks with others, consider selecting a font that’s commonly installed on most systems to avoid formatting issues.
Another tip is to consider the purpose of your notes when choosing a font. If you’re using OneNote for professional reasons, you might opt for a more traditional, business-like font such as Arial or Calibri. On the other hand, if OneNote is your go-to for creative writing, you might choose something more unique or expressive. Remember, the key is to find a balance between a font that reflects your personality and one that serves the function of your notes.
Lastly, don’t be afraid to experiment. It’s okay to change your default font down the line if you find something that better suits your needs. Just follow the steps outlined above, and you can switch it up whenever you fancy a change.
Summary
- Open OneNote and select the File tab, then Options.
- In the OneNote Options dialog box, go to the General tab.
- Under the Default font section, select your preferred font and size.
- Click OK to save the changes and apply the new default font.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will changing the default font affect my existing notes?
No, changing the default font will only apply to new pages and sections.
Can I change the default font for specific notebooks only?
No, the default font change will apply to all notebooks in OneNote 2013.
What happens if the font I choose isn’t available on another device?
If the font is not available on another device, OneNote will default to a similar font or a system font.
Can I change the default font size as well?
Yes, when you change the default font, you can also set the new default font size.
Do I need to restart OneNote for the changes to take effect?
No, the changes will take effect immediately after you click OK in the Options dialog box.
Conclusion
In essence, changing the default font in OneNote 2013 is more than a cosmetic tweak; it’s about creating a more personalized and comfortable space for your thoughts and ideas. It’s a simple yet effective way to ensure your digital notebook aligns with your note-taking needs and preferences.
With the quick steps outlined in this article, you can easily switch up the font and make your OneNote experience uniquely yours. So, why settle for the default when you can customize? Go ahead, give your OneNote a font facelift and watch your productivity and enjoyment soar.
Matt Jacobs has been working as an IT consultant for small businesses since receiving his Master’s degree in 2003. While he still does some consulting work, his primary focus now is on creating technology support content for SupportYourTech.com.
His work can be found on many websites and focuses on topics such as Microsoft Office, Apple devices, Android devices, Photoshop, and more.