Are you facing issues with OneNote page templates not opening? You're not alone. This common problem can be frustrating, but don't worry, we've got you covered. In this guide, we'll explore possible reasons and provide step-by-step solutions to help you get back to productivity.
Understanding the Problem
OneNote page templates are a great way to save time and maintain consistency. However, when they refuse to open, it can disrupt your workflow. This issue can be caused by a variety of factors, including software glitches, corrupted files, or even third-party add-ins.
Troubleshooting: Basic Steps
Before diving into complex solutions, let's start with some basic troubleshooting steps.

- Restart OneNote: Sometimes, simply closing and reopening the application can resolve the issue.
- Check for Updates: Ensure your OneNote is up-to-date. Outdated versions can sometimes cause compatibility issues.
- Disable Add-ins: Third-party add-ins can interfere with OneNote's functionality. Temporarily disabling them can help identify if they're the cause.
Resolving Corrupted Templates
If the above steps don't work, the issue might be with the template file itself. Here's how you can resolve corrupted templates:
- Open OneNote and click on the File tab.
- Select Options and then Save & Backup.
- Under Template location, click on Change Template Location.
- Delete the corrupted template and restart OneNote.
Repairing OneNote
If the template still doesn't open, the issue might be with OneNote itself. Here's how you can repair it:
- Open the Control Panel and select Uninstall a program.
- Find Microsoft Office or OneNote in the list, right-click on it, and select Change.
- Click on Quick Repair and follow the prompts. If the issue persists, try Online Repair.
Reinstalling OneNote
If all else fails, you might need to reinstall OneNote. Before you do, make sure to backup your notebooks to prevent data loss.

| Backup Method | Steps |
|---|---|
| OneNote's built-in backup feature | Go to File > Info > Account & Settings > Sync Settings > Back up and sync. |
| Manual backup | Locate your notebooks in the file explorer, right-click on them, and select Copy. Paste them into a safe location. |
After backing up, uninstall OneNote, restart your computer, and reinstall the latest version.
Preventing Future Issues
To prevent OneNote page templates from not opening in the future, always keep your software up-to-date, avoid using corrupted files, and regularly backup your notebooks.























