Short Introduction
Windows 11 has transformed Notepad into a lightweight AI writing assistant. With a new “Write” feature powered by Microsoft’s own AI models or ChatGPT, users can now generate or rewrite text directly inside Notepad. However, this change has sparked backlash from users who preferred Notepad’s minimalist charm. This guide explains how to use the AI feature, and also how to remove or avoid it entirely.
Simplified One-Line Flowchart
Update Notepad ➔ Use “Write” or “Rewrite” ➔ Generate, edit, or turn off AI
Easy Step-by-Step Method
Step 1: Join the Windows Insider Program (Optional)
- Required for early access to the Notepad AI feature in version
11.2504.46.0+. - Read the announcement
Step 2: Ensure You’re Using the Latest Notepad Version
- AI features are only available on updated Notepad builds.
- Requires Microsoft 365 Personal or higher subscription ($12.99/month).
Step 3: Launch Notepad and Use “Write”
- Right-click inside the text field or press Ctrl + Q to open the AI prompt window.
- You can also access it through the Copilot menu.
- Enter a prompt (e.g., “Write a thank-you email”), and AI will generate short content.
Step 4: Rewrite Existing Text
- Highlight a sentence → Right-click → Choose Rewrite.
- Change tone (formal, casual, professional) or format (list, academic, poetry, etc.).
- You can make the content longer or shorter as well.
Step 5: Disable AI in Notepad (If You Prefer Simplicity)
- Open Notepad → Settings → Turn off Copilot.
- All AI features (“Write”, “Rewrite”, Copilot) will disappear instantly.
Step 6: Alternatives for Classic Experience
- Use Notepad++ if you want more control without AI:
https://notepad-plus-plus.org/ - Or try Notepad3 for a simple, privacy-focused offline editor:
https://github.com/rizonesoft/Notepad3
Quick Tips
- “Rewrite” offers more tone and length options than “Write.”
- The AI generates short paragraphs by default, not full articles.
- Copilot is tied to Microsoft 365, so no subscription = no AI tools.
- You can toggle features without restarting Notepad.
Important Notes
- Performance impact: Users report Notepad uses 25–45MB with AI on (compared to <1MB in older versions).
- Frustration from users: Many feel AI bloats Notepad’s original purpose as a fast, no-nonsense text tool.
- Privacy concerns: Some users worry about text accidentally being sent to the cloud.
- Toggle stability: Some updates may reset AI toggles, requiring manual re-disable.
- User sentiment:
- Many hardcore users prefer using tools like Notepad++, Notepad3, or even building their own editors.
- General consensus: AI features should’ve been in Word or WordPad, not Notepad.
- Still, Microsoft allows turning them off — for now.
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