Default location for creating new OneNote Notebooks across different platforms

Question

Hi everyone,

I’m confused by the way OneNote handles new notebooks across different platforms. Currently, I have zero control over the default save path unless I'm using the Windows Desktop app.

The Issue:

• iPhone/iOS: Creating a notebook saves it directly to the OneDrive Root folder.
• OneNote Web: Creating a notebook saves it to a "Notebooks" folder. I deleted the folder but upon creating a new notebook again, it created the "Notebooks" folder again and saved the new notebook there.
• OneNote Windows Desktop App: This is the only place I can actually define a default path.

I’m aware that I can manually move these files later via OneDrive, but that’s a tedious workaround, not a solution. It results in a cluttered OneDrive root and a fragmented filing system every time I’m on the go.

My Question: Is there any hidden setting or a planned update to let users set a single, universal default folder for all new notebooks, regardless of the device used to create them?

Answer 1

Hi, Tejas Kothari

The desktop version is basically the only OneNote app that gives you real control over where a new notebook is created, while mobile and newer cloud-first versions follow their own save behavior instead.

Here are some suggestions you can try:

If you want one consistent folder, create new notebooks from the Windows desktop app only, and set File > Options > Save & Backup > Default Notebook Location first.

For notebooks already created in the wrong place, the cleanest supported fix is to create a new notebook in the correct folder, then move or copy your sections into it.

If you create a notebook from iPhone or web, expect it to use OneDrive’s built-in default behavior, not your desktop preference. That’s why the folder can end up in Root or a recreated Notebooks folder depending on the app.

You can also send feedback to Microsoft, because the current workaround is still desktop-based rather than a true cross-device setting. Your opinion can be provided through the Feedback Portal.

Thank you for your patience in reading, I hope this information has been helpful to you. 

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