How to add Open with Notepad to the Windows context menu for all files
Tzu Hsuan Chen
March 17, 2025
If you frequently open different file types in Notepad, you may find it inconvenient to navigate through multiple steps every time. You can simplify the process by adding a dedicated Open with Notepad option to the Windows context menu instead of manually selecting Notepad from the Open With menu. With this quick-access feature, you can instantly open any file in Notepad, enhancing efficiency and convenience. This guide will walk you through the steps to enable this feature in the Windows Registry, ensuring a smoother workflow when working with text-based files.
Please note that the Registry Editor is a powerful tool, and improper use may result in your system becoming unstable or even unusable. While this procedure is straightforward, it is important to follow the instructions carefully to avoid any problems. If you are unfamiliar with the Registry Editor, you may wish to read How to use the Windows Registry Editor before proceeding. In addition, it’s recommended to back up your computer’s registry and system before making any changes, to ensure that you can retrieve your data if needed.
Backing up specific sections of the Windows Registry:
Open the Registry Editor: Press Start, type regedit, and hit Enter.
Identify the key: Navigate to the specific registry section you want to back up (e.g., HKCR*, HKCU\Software, or HKLM\Software).
Export the key: Select the one you want to back up and right-click on it.
Choose Export: Click on Export to save the backup file with a recognizable name (e.g., HKCRstar.reg).
Make changes safely: Use the backup file to restore settings if needed by double-clicking the file.
Using System Restore (preferred method for major changes):
Create a restore point: Search for “Create restore point” in the Start menu.
Click Create”: This will provide a descriptive name for the restore point.
Search for “System Restore” to open the wizard, and select your restore point.
Using System Restore for a complete registry backup:
Create a restore point before making changes:
Search for “Create restore point” in the Start menu.
Click Create, enter a descriptive name, and save the restore point.
Restoring from a System Restore point:
Search for “System Restore” in the Start menu.
Open the wizard, select the restore point, and follow the instructions.
For better results, boot into Safe mode by holding Shift + Restart and accessing System Restore from the boot menu.
Add Open with Notepad to the Windows context menu
Open the Windows Registry Editor
Press Start, type regedit, and press Enter.
Navigate to the appropriate registry key
In the Registry Editor, click on the file in the left bar.
To use “shell” as the file name, HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\*\shell should show at the bottom of the window.
Create a new key for the context menu option
Right-click the Shell key in the left panel.
Select New > Key and name it “Open with Notepad.”
Create a command subkey
Right-click the newly created Open with Notepad key.
Select New > Key and name it “Command.”
Set the command to Open Files in Notepad
Click on the Command key.
In the right-hand pane, double-click the (Default) value.
You will see a window called “Edit String.”
Type notepad.exe %1 in the Value date field
Click OK to save changes.
Test the results
You can test by clicking any file, as the changes will work immediately.
Conclusion
By following these steps, you can easily add an Open with Notepad option to your Windows context menu, making it more convenient to access and edit files with a single right-click. This simple tweak enhances efficiency, especially when working with configuration files or documents that don’t have a default text editor assigned. If you prefer an easier approach, you can use pre-made registry files to automate the process. However, always be cautious when modifying the Windows Registry to avoid unintended system changes. With this quick customization, Notepad will always be just one click away.
