How to Change the Outlook Reading Pane in Windows 11

The new Outlook for Windows brings a modern look to your email. It works with Microsoft 365, Outlook.com, Hotmail, and Gmail accounts.

This app includes many tools like email signatures, external email accounts, out-of-office automatic replies, email sorting, subscription management, email forwarding, setting default From address, and backing up your mailbox.

Why change the reading pane?
The default layout shows your emails on the right side of the screen. This can feel crowded on smaller screens. Changing the layout helps you see your messages better and makes managing your inbox faster.

What happens when done?
Your inbox will update to show your emails in the position you choose, helping you work more efficiently.

How to Change the Outlook Reading Pane

First, open the new Outlook app on Windows 11. You can find it by clicking Start, then All apps, and selecting Outlook. You can also search for it in the Start menu.

You can change the view quickly using these methods:

Simplified ribbon: Click View -> Layout -> Reading pane:

• Show on the right
• Show on the bottom
• Hide

Classic ribbon: Click View -> Reading pane:

• Show on the right
• Show on the bottom
• Hide

You can also use the Settings menu:

1. Click the Settings button (the gear icon at the top right).

2. Click the Mail tab on the left and select Layout on the right.

3. Select the email account you want to change. Note: You must repeat these steps for each account if you have more than one.

4. Scroll down to the Read pane section and choose your preferred view:

• On the right – Email opens on the right side.
• At the bottom – Email opens at the bottom.
• Hide reading pane – Email opens in full screen.

Save your changes and return to your inbox to see the new layout.

Summary

This guide showed you how to adjust the reading pane in the new Outlook app. By choosing between right, bottom, or hidden views, you can customize your workspace to fit your screen size and improve your daily email workflow.