If I had to choose my favourite Microsoft app of all time, OneNote would win hands down. For over a decade, it has been my go-to tool for staying organised, especially when it comes to meeting notes and client details. I’m always amazed at how versatile and powerful this app is—and yet, many organisations seem to overlook its potential. So, let’s change that! Here’s a beginner-friendly introduction to OneNote and why I think it’s a must-have.
What is OneNote?
OneNote is a digital notebook that lets you gather, organise, and store information all in one place. Think of it as the ultimate notebook where you can jot down notes, sketch ideas, clip content from the web, and even record audio. Best of all, it syncs across all your devices, making it easy to access your notes whether you’re at your desk or on the go.
OneNote works like a traditional notebook but with sections and pages instead of physical dividers and paper. You can create different notebooks for different purposes, such as work, personal life, or hobbies. Within each notebook, you can organise your notes into sections and sub-sections, making it incredibly easy to find what you’re looking for.
Oh, and did I mention it’s free? You can download it as a standalone app or access it as part of the Microsoft 365 suite.
How I Use OneNote
Over the years, OneNote has become the backbone of my organisational system. Whenever I start working with a new client, the first thing I do is create a new section in my OneNote notebook. This section becomes the hub for everything related to that client: meeting notes, project details, to-do lists, and even screenshots of important emails or documents. No more shuffling through folders or digging into my inbox—everything I need is neatly stored and just a click away.
One of my favourite OneNote features is how it integrates with other Microsoft apps. Did you know that when you create a Microsoft Teams channel or a SharePoint site, a OneNote notebook is automatically generated? I love this because it gives teams a shared space to collaborate and keep track of important information. It’s such a powerful tool, and I wish more organisations would take advantage of it.
Why I Love OneNote
What makes OneNote stand out for me is its flexibility. Whether I’m typing notes during a meeting, sketching a diagram on my tablet, or pasting screenshots and links for later reference, OneNote handles it all effortlessly. I can even tag items to highlight action points or track tasks.
Another thing I love about OneNote is how it’s used in education. While it’s not as widely adopted in Australian workplaces as I’d like, it’s hugely popular in the United States, especially in schools. Teachers use it to create lesson plans, and students use it to take notes and collaborate on projects. I’d love to see more organisations here discover how transformative it can be for productivity.
Whether you’re managing projects, taking meeting notes, or simply looking for a way to keep your life organised, OneNote is a tool worth exploring. It’s been a game-changer for me, and I’m sure it can be for you too.
Have you used OneNote before? If so, I’d love to hear how you use it. Let me know in the comments!
