How do I turn off "Always on Top" for Docked Windows in OneNote?

Question

Hello,

I use the "Docked Window" feature to keep my task list on the side of my screen. However, the docked window is "Always on Top." I would like to turn this off so that other applications can appear over it at times, but still have my task list docked to the side.

Is there a way to turn off the "Always on Top" feature for docked windows?

Other potentially relevant information:

• I have a Microsoft 365 subscription
• OneNote Version: 2509

Please let me know if there is anything else I can clarify to help assist you in assisting me on this matter.

Thank you,

LB

Answer 1

Hi @LB, 

Thank you for posting your question in the Microsoft Q&A forum.  

The issue relates to the Docked Window feature, which is designed to remain “Always on Top” by default. This functionality ensures that your notes stay visible while you work in other applications, making it easier to reference or update your notes without switching windows. 

Currently, in OneNote for Microsoft 365 (version 2509), there is no built-in setting to disable this “Always on Top” behavior. While this design supports multitasking, we understand it may not suit every workflow. 

However, here are a few practical alternatives you might find helpful: 

1/ Begin by adjusting the window size instead of docking it, as this can often improve layout and functionality. 

• Open OneNote in a normal window. 
• Manually resize and position it on the side of your screen. 
• This allows other applications to overlap when needed. 

2/ Then, leverage the taskbar for faster access to essential tools and functions. 

• Keep OneNote minimized and use the taskbar or Alt + Tab to bring it up when required. 

3/ Optionally, third-party tools can be utilized at this stage to provide extended capabilities beyond the built-in options. 

• Utilities such as AutoHotkey or DeskPins can override window behavior. 
• Please confirm with your IT team before using these tools, as they may not be allowed under security policies. 

Moreover, as a forum moderator, I hope you understand that I don’t have the ability to modify or escalate product issues directly. However, I strongly recommend submitting your feedback through the OneNote · Community portal. This is the most effective way to ensure your voice reaches the product team and can be considered for future improvements. 

You've clearly identified a real-world challenge, and your suggestion reflects a deep understanding of user needs - feedback like yours is truly valuable and helps shape the future of Microsoft Teams. 

Sharing your experience through this channel is one of the most effective ways to advocate for improvements that benefit both you and the broader community.  

Once you’ve submitted your feedback, feel free to share the link here. I’d be happy to upvote it to help increase its visibility. 

As community moderators, we kindly ask for your understanding that our access to internal development details is limited. Our primary role is to guide users toward the appropriate resources and support channels. While we may not have influence product design decisions and have limited access to internal development details, we’ll continue doing our best to support you within the scope of our responsibilities.  

I hope you find this information helpful. 

Thank you sincerely for your understanding regarding this limitation. If you have any questions or need further assistance, please feel free to reach out at any time. 

Hope everything goes wonderfully for you. 

---

If the answer is helpful, please click "Accept Answer" and kindly upvote it. If you have extra questions about this answer, please click "Comment".  

Note: Please follow the steps in our documentation to enable e-mail notifications if you want to receive the related email notification for this thread.