Draw and sketch notes on a page

Applies To: OneNote 2013

If you’re using OneNote on a touch-capable computer or device, you can draw, sketch, or write notes with a pen, much like you can on paper. You can also choose from a shapes list instead of drawing freehand.

TIP:  If your device has a small screen, click or tap the Touch/Mouse Mode button on the Quick Access Toolbar, and then clickTouch. This puts more space between the commands, so it’s easier to tap with your finger. You can turn this mode off when you’re done drawing.
 

To draw and sketch on a standard PC:

1. Click the Draw tab.
2. Click any of the pens or highlighters on the ribbon, and then use the mouse to draw or sketch notes on the page.
3. To stop drawing, click the Type button on the Draw tab.
    

To draw and sketch on a touch-capable PC or device:

1. Click the Draw tab.
2. Tap Draw with Touch, tap any of the pens or highlighters shown on the ribbon, and then use your finger or a stylus to draw or sketch on the page.
3. To stop drawing, click the Type button on the Draw tab.
    

To draw a shape:

1. Click the Draw tab, select an item in the Shapes list, and then click and drag on the page to draw the shape.
2. While the shape is selected, you can click and drag it to resize it, or to move it to a different place on the page.
3. To view additional drawing choices, click the More arrow in the lower-right corner of the Shapes list, and then select a shape from the popup menu.
    

To draw several shapes in a row:

1. On the ribbon, click Draw, and then click the More arrow in the lower-right corner of the Shapes list.
2. On the popup menu, click Lock Drawing Mode. OneNote will remain in drawing mode until cancelled.
3. Select an item in the Shapes list, and then click and drag on the page to draw the shape you want. Repeat this step for as many additional shapes you want.
4. To cancel drawing mode, press the Esc key on your keyboard, or click the Type button on the Draw tab.