# How to Customize Navigation Pane MS Access

> To organize your database, open it, right-click the Navigation Pane top bar, and select Navigation Options. Add and rename custom categories and groups, control visibility by checking hidden or system objects, and click OK to save your customized pane settings.

Canonical: https://livedemo.ai/tutorials/how-to-customize-navigation-pane-ms-access/
Updated: 2026-10-05
Interactive demo: https://story-api.livedemo.ai/workspaces/62255d3d3304f17b8f5e2d03/stories/692a3ab4ab56e05a00fe1d44/preview?step=1

## Steps

1. Open your desired database.
2. Right-click on the top bar of the Navigation Pane and select 'Navigation Options...'.
3. In the 'Navigation Options' dialog, click 'Add Item' to create a new custom category.
4. Double-click the new category to rename it.
5. Under the selected category, click 'Add Group' to create a new group.
6. Rename groups by clicking on their names and clicking on the 'Rename Groups' button.
7. Check 'Show Hidden Objects' or 'Show System Objects' to control visibility.
8. Click 'OK' to save the customize navigation pane.
9. By customizing the Navigation Pane, you can make working with your Access database more organized and efficient.