OneNote excels at rapid note-taking, flexible organization, and seamless notebook management. However, its spell check feature—those persistent red squiggly lines—can distract during fast-paced sessions, especially if you're jotting ideas without immediate proofreading.
While helpful for polished work, these underlines often hinder focus. If occasional typos don't bother you, disabling spell check entirely streamlines your workflow. For OneNote 2016 users, an add-in also allows selective disabling. Follow these proven steps tailored to your version—no more interruptions on new or existing notes.
Disabling spell check is straightforward in both OneNote 2016 and the Windows Store app, though the paths differ slightly.
Step 1: Open OneNote 2016 and select the File tab.
Step 2: Choose Options from the menu.
Step 3: Switch to the Proofing tab.
Step 4: Under When correcting spelling in OneNote, uncheck Check spelling as you type.
Click OK to apply. Note: Checking Hide spelling and grammar errors works similarly but also conceals grammar issues.
Step 1: Click the ellipsis (three dots) in the top-right corner, then select Settings.
Step 2: In Settings, click Options.
Step 3: Scroll to Proofing and toggle on Hide spelling mistakes.
Changes save automatically. Note: This hides both spelling and grammar errors—no separate grammar toggle available.
For targeted control in OneNote 2016, use the Onetastic add-in with the No Spell Check macro. This preserves global spell checking while exempting specific text—ideal for quick notes without full deactivation. Macros aren't supported in the Windows Store app.
Note: Save and close OneNote first.
Step 1: Download and install Onetastic (choose 32-bit or 64-bit matching your OneNote version).
Download Onetastic
To check your version: File > Account > About OneNote, then exit.
Step 2: Run the installer and follow prompts.
Step 3: Launch OneNote when prompted.
Step 4: Download the No Spell Check macro.
Download No Spell Check
Step 5: Run the downloaded file; it opens in the Macros window—click Install.
Step 6: Confirm installation via the blue notification and close the window.
Step 7: Highlight text (or place cursor for new notes), go to Home tab > Macros group > Spell Check > No Spell Check.
Squiggles vanish instantly. Tip: Reactivate per note/page, as it resets.
Quick notes thrive on uninterrupted flow; spell check often breaks momentum. These tweaks, tested across versions, boost productivity. Onetastic adds precision when needed.
Share your tips in the comments!
