Microsoft OneNote is rolling out two highly requested features for Insiders: the ability to merge table cells for better table customization and a Paste Text Only shortcut (Ctrl+Shift+V / Cmd+Shift+V) to paste clean, unformatted text. These updates enhance flexibility and note-taking efficiency.
What’s New in OneNote: Merge Table Cells & Paste Text Only
Microsoft just rolled out two highly requested features for OneNote Insiders. These updates focus on flexibility and cleaner note-taking. If you’re a OneNote power user, these changes will make your workflow smoother and more efficient.
Merge Table Cells: Finally Here!
OneNote users have long asked for the ability to merge table cells—and now it’s live! This feature lets you combine adjacent cells horizontally or vertically. Whether you’re designing custom headers or tidying up your tables, merging cells gives you more control over layout.
To merge cells, simply select two or more adjacent cells, right-click, and choose “Merge Cells.” Alternatively, use the Table tab on the ribbon. The content aligns automatically, making your tables look clean and professional.
Platform Availability
- Windows, Mac, and iPad support full merge functionality.
- iPhone, Android, and Web display merged cells but can’t create merges yet.
“We heard your feedback loud and clear: ‘Let me merge cells in OneNote tables!’ And now, you can!” – Bola Soneye, Microsoft 365 Blog
Paste Text Only Shortcut: Keep Your Notes Clean
Another game-changer is the new “Paste Without Formatting” shortcut. Now, when you paste text into OneNote, it automatically matches your notebook’s style. No more weird fonts or background colors from other apps.
Use Ctrl + Shift + V on Windows or Cmd + Shift + V on Mac to paste plain text. You can also find this option via right-click or the Home ribbon under Paste Options.
This shortcut is familiar if you’ve used it in Teams, Gmail, or Word for the web. It’s a small tweak that makes a big difference when collecting info from multiple sources.
Why This Matters
Mixing content from emails, web pages, or documents often creates messy notes. This feature keeps your OneNote tidy and distraction-free, improving readability and productivity.
“This small shortcut makes a big difference when you’re pulling content from multiple sources into your notes.” – Microsoft 365 Blog
Rollout and Feedback
Both features are rolling out gradually to Insiders. If you don’t see them yet, hang tight—they’re coming soon. Microsoft values your feedback to polish these updates further. Use Help > Feedback in OneNote to share your thoughts.
Final Thoughts
These updates show Microsoft’s commitment to enhancing OneNote’s usability. Merging table cells and pasting text only might seem small, but they solve real pain points. If you’re serious about note-taking, these features will save you time and frustration.
From the Microsoft 365 Blog articles
