Smarter Tables in OneNote: Merge Cells Like a Pro

Smarter Tables in OneNote: Merge Cells Like a Pro

Microsoft OneNote now lets you merge table cells. This long-awaited feature brings cleaner layouts, better organization, and a touch of Word-like polish to your notes.

By Rodger Mansfield, Technology Editor 

September 22, 2025

Have you ever tried building a table in OneNote and realized you couldn’t merge cells? 

It’s like trying to build a house with bricks but no mortar. 

For years, users have asked for this basic functionality, especially educators, project managers, and anyone who organizes complex notes. 

Here's a Cool Tip:  Merge Cells in Microsoft OneNote as an "Insider"!

The ability to merge table cells is rolling out to OneNote on Windows and Mac for Microsoft 365 insiders, with view-only support on mobile and web. 

It’s not flashy, but it’s a game-changer for anyone who lives in their notebooks.

What You'll Gain

• Create cleaner, more readable tables 
• Group related content under unified headers 
• Reduce visual clutter in meeting notes and lesson plans

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here's how to do it.

Windows & Mac

1. Join the Microsoft 365 Insider Program.
2. Update OneNote > File > Account > Update Options > Update Now.
3. Open a OneNote notebook.
4. Insert a table via Insert > Table.
5. Select two or more adjacent cells (horizontal or vertical).
6. Right-click and choose Table > Merge Cells, or use the Merge Cells button in the Table ribbon.

fig. 1 - Merge Cells in Microsoft OneNote

iOS & Android

1. You can view merged cells, but editing is not yet supported.
2. Expect editing support in future updates.

OneNote Web

1. Merged cells are visible and editable in the web version.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Makes tables more flexible and visually appealing.
• Ideal for creating headers that span multiple columns or grouping related data.
• Aligns OneNote more closely with Word and Excel formatting standards.

Cons:

• Editing merged cells is not yet supported on iPhone and Android.
• No option to split merged cells back (yet).
• Still missing advanced table formatting like nested tables or conditional formatting.

Feature Access

Available to:

• Available to Microsoft365 Insiders.
• Windows and Mac users (editing)
• Web, iOS, and Android users (viewing only)

No separate subscription required beyond Microsoft 365.

Score

Criterion | Score | Justification

Value: 9/10 

Solves a long-standing limitation and improves table usability for note-heavy users.

Usability: 8/10 

Simple to use on desktop, but mobile editing is still missing.

Wow Factor: 7/10 

Not flashy, but long overdue. Users will appreciate the polish.

Total Score: 24/30 👍 Good. Worth adopting for most users.

Key Takeaways

OneNote’s new merge cell feature finally fills a major gap in table formatting. 

It’s intuitive, practical, and makes your notes look more professional. 

While mobile editing is still pending, desktop users can start benefiting today.

Try It Yourself

Ready to clean up your cluttered tables? 

Try merging cells in OneNote today. 

Share your experience in the comments, subscribe to our newsletter, and pass this tip along to your team.

READ MORE

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• Math: OneNote’s Hidden Superpower
  

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Rodger Mansfield, a seasoned tech expert, is the mastermind behind www.OneCoolTip.com where he serves as both writer and editor. With a keen eye for simplifying complex tech, Rodger delivers practical advice that empowers readers to navigate the digital world with confidence. Dive into www.OneCoolTip.com for a treasure trove of savvy tips and tricks that keep you one step ahead in tech.

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