How To Reset Microsoft Notepad To Default Settings?

Microsoft Notepad is the default text editor in the Windows operating system. Although it is a helpful application, many users overlook its value when Microsoft 365 is available on their PCs.

While Microsoft Office and OpenOffice provide extensive features, they cannot fully replace Notepad. People often realize its importance only when they can no longer use it.

Last night, one of my friends decided to showcase his computer skills by experimenting with various software on my system. By the time he completed it, Microsoft Notepad had stopped working.

He claimed he did not remember what changes he made. Initially, I was not too concerned. I assumed a simple reset would restore the default settings.

I looked for a reset option to restore the current configuration, only to discover that no such button exists. That is when I learned the harsh truth: there is no direct way to reset Notepad.

The only solution is to manually delete the related registry keys to reset Microsoft Notepad to its default state.

I must warn you that if you have no prior experience with altering Windows registry settings, do not follow the instructions without taking a registry backup.

1. Close Notepad if it is open.

2. Open Registry Editor by typing regedit on Search or Run window.

3. Click on HKEY_CURRENT_USER and select Software.

   

4. Click on Microsoft and select Notepad.

   
   
   

5. Delete all entries on the right-hand side column except the default key.

   

After completing the instructions, I suggest opening Windows Notepad and checking whether it has the default font.

Praveen Agarwal, a blogger and writer, asked, "How do I confirm the Notepad has the default font and font size? What is the default font of a Windows 11 Notepad?"

I must say, Praveen mentioned a valid question. How will you confirm that your Windows 11 laptop Notepad has the default font?

According to Samuel Nir, a Dell technician, "The default font for Notepad is Lucida Console in Windows 11 Dell laptops."

Samuel also answered the second part of Praveen's question.

He continued, "Hello Alex, you asked for the default font size assigned to Windows 11 Notepad. I suggest you set a font size of 10 or 12 points."