Skip to main content
Microsoft Outlook

How to Change the Reading Pane in Classic Outlook

Published 11 September 2026

The Reading Pane shows a preview of the selected email without opening it in a separate window.

If the preview has disappeared or moved, you can change its position from the View menu.

Open Outlook and go to:

View > Reading Pane

Choose one of the following:

Right - Displays the selected email on the right-hand side.

Bottom - Displays the selected email underneath the message list.

Off - Turns the Reading Pane off completely.

For the usual Outlook layout, select:

Right

Changing the Reading Pane does not move or delete any emails. It only changes how messages are displayed.

Got Questions?

Helpful guides selected for this page

Browse the Knowledge Base

IT Emergency?

24/7 emergency IT support available for existing clients

Help & Support
Standard Support Hours

Monday - Friday 8:00 - 17:00
Saturday Closed
Sunday Closed
Other Ways to Reach Us
24/7 Emergency Support

Critical issues? Our emergency team is available 24/7 for existing clients.

Emergency Support Line