Set printouts in the background of a OneNote page

In OneNote, you can place printouts in the background of a page to lock them in place. This feature makes it easier to draw on, annotate, or mark up diagrams, lessons, exercises, and more, making it highly effective for e-learning and virtual classrooms. However, embedding large printout files is not recommended if many users will be accessing the content, as it may affect performance.

Note: Embedding a large printout file is not recommended if many people will be viewing your content.

Set a single printout in the background of a page

To insert a printout in OneNote, go to the Insert tab and select File Printout.
Choose your printout file and choose Insert.
Once the printout appears on your OneNote page, right-click on it and select Set Picture as Background. This locks the printout, making it easier for online teaching and digital learning.

To insert a printout, go to the Insert tab and select Picture.
Choose whether to upload the printout from a file, your camera, or an online source.
Select your printout and choose Open.
Once your printout is placed on the page, right-click on it and select Set Picture as Background. This feature is helpful for remote learning, as it allows students to annotate directly on lessons and assignments.

Automatically set all printouts in the background of a page (applies to OneNote 2016):

Go to the File menu, select Options, and then choose Advanced.
Scroll to the bottom of the Advanced options and check the box labeled Automatically set inserted file printouts in the background.
With this setting enabled, every printout you insert will automatically be set as a background, making it convenient for educators using OneNote in online learning platforms and distance education programs.

Setting printouts as backgrounds in OneNote helps create an effective and organized virtual learning environment. Whether you're using it for distance learning courses, online degree programs, or virtual classrooms, this feature supports seamless annotation and collaboration, making online education more interactive and engaging.