How to Fix OneNote “Saved Offline” Error

Quick Tips

• The most common reason you face the problem is that your notes have been disabled for Syncing.
• You should also ensure the app is updated, as this may trigger the problem.

Basic Fixes: 

• Ensure OneDrive is not full: OneNote stores data using Microsoft’s OneDrive storage. If the storage is full, you may face the error and have to create some space.
• Ensure OneDrive and OneNote servers are online: If Microsoft has problems, wait for the company to resolve them. OneNote and OneDrive are part of the Microsoft Office package. You can go to Downdetector.com and see if there are issues on Microsoft’s side.
• Update and reopen OneNote: An outdated app will face this error. Click File > Account > expand Update options > click Update. Once updated, restart the app.

Fix 1: Sync Notebooks Manually

As you add new notes in OneNote or make changes to the existing ones, the notebook syncs the edits to the notebook stored in OneDrive. Sometimes, if your internet connection is slow or intermittent, it may throw an error or start working offline. In such cases, manually syncing the notebooks to the OneDrive platform is advisable.

Step 1: Launch OneNote.

Step 2: Right-click your Notebook on the left pane and click Sync This Notebook Now. Alternatively, press Shift + F9 on Windows or Command + S on a Mac.

While the UI may look different, the same steps work for Windows and Mac. Retry OneNote. Once fixed, you may resume using all its features or try some new shortcuts to improve productivity.

Fix 2: Copy All Data to a New Notebook

You may copy and paste all the content to a new notebook, which fixes the sync problem. Follow the steps below.

Step 1: Launch the OneNote app.

Step 2: Expand the Notebook you need to copy, right-click on the first section, and click on Move or Copy.

Step 3: Click the Notebook where you need it and click Copy.

Step 3: Repeat step 2 for as many sections of the old Notebook as possible.