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How to Find and Use Notepad in Windows 11

Richard
Written by
Richard
Dec 8, 2021 Updated Jul 10, 2026 2 min read
How to Use Sticky Notes in Windows 11
How to Use Sticky Notes in Windows 11

Windows 11 users find and use the Notepad program by typing "Notepad" into the search bar on the Start menu. This search directly pulls up the application for quick opening, allowing users to start writing or editing text files without needing to navigate through multiple menus.

Notepad is your go-to, built-in text editor for Windows, designed for creating simple, unformatted text files.

Notepad, a lightweight app available since Windows 1.0, excels at quick notes, basic code snippets, and stripping formatting from copied text. This app's simplicity makes it perfect for fast text edits without extra styles.

Unlike WordPad or Microsoft Word, Notepad strictly handles plain text, guaranteeing compatibility everywhere.

Its simplicity means you can launch and use it instantly for any urgent task.

⚡ Quick Answer

Find Notepad in Windows 11 by clicking the Start button and typing “Notepad” in the search bar. Click the Notepad app from the search results to open the text editor. You can also use the Run command by pressing Windows key + R and typing “notepad”.

How to open Notepad on 🪟 Windows 11

Opening Notepad in Windows 11 is simple and can be done in just a couple of ways, like using the Start menu or the Run command.

Method 1: The Start Menu

Click the Start button. Type “Notepad” into the search box. Click the Notepad app in the results to open it.

Microsoft Notepad interface on Windows 11
notepad on windows 11

This will launch the Notepad window on your screen.

Notepad open with text in Windows 11
notepad open in windows 11

Method 2: The Run Command

Press the Windows key + R on your keyboard. Type ‘notepad’ in the box and press Enter.

Run box in Windows 11 with Notepad search
windows 11 run box notepad

Method 3: File Explorer

⚠️Warning
The Notepad program file resides within File Explorer. Access the specific location by navigating to 📁C:\Program Files\Windows NT\Accessories. Locating the executable file directly within this folder allows for direct program launch.
💻Code
C:\Windows\notepad.exe
Notepad located in Windows 11 File Explorer
notepad in file explorer
📝Note
If you need to make edits at the system level, you might need administrator privileges.

Managing your files

Use this table to handle your documents:

  • Create a new file: Click File, then select New.
  • Open a file: Click File, then select Open.
  • Save a file: Click File, then select Save.
  • Save with a new name: Click File, then select Save as.

Summary

Notepad, a tool for simple text editing in Windows 11, offers accessibility through the Start menu, the Run command, or File Explorer. Lacking advanced features such as spellcheck or complex formatting, Notepad is ideal for quick tasks. For more demanding needs, users can consider WordPad or Notepad++.





How to get Notepad on desktop 🪟 Windows 11?

And open it. You can also open notepad using the start menu for that simply click on start button. And here you'll find your notepad. Application if you don't get notepad here on the pinned apps.

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Tags: #Windows 11
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Richard

About the Author

Richard

Tech Writer, IT Professional

Richard, a writer for Geek Rewind, is a tech enthusiast who loves breaking down complex IT topics into simple, easy-to-understand ideas. With years of hands-on experience in system administration and enterprise IT operations, he’s developed a knack for offering practical tips and solutions. Richard aims to make technology more accessible and actionable. He's deeply committed to the Geek Rewind community, always ready to answer questions and engage in discussions.

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