💡 How to Use Postman Scratch Pad Without Workspace
Starting from Postman v10.18 (released around May 2023), the classic Scratch Pad mode was officially removed and replaced by a new workspace-based experience that requires users to sign in. While this transition aims to improve collaboration and syncing between devices, many developers still prefer a lightweight, offline, and no-login workflow.
If you’re one of them — here’s a simple trick to re-enable the Scratch Pad manually, even in the latest versions of Postman.
⚙️ Steps to Enable Scratch Pad
Follow these 7 simple steps:
-
Run Postman — make sure it starts in the lightweight client mode (the default for new versions).
-
Open DevTools — press Ctrl + Shift + I (or Cmd + Option + I on macOS).
-
In the Console, run this command:
codepm.settings.setSetting("offlineAPIClientEnabled", 0)This disables the lightweight client and switches Postman back to the Scratch Pad mode.
-
Restart Postman — you’ll briefly see the Scratch Pad interface appear before it gets hidden by the login screen.
-
Open DevTools again (same shortcut as before).
-
Run this command in the console:
codepm.mediator.trigger("hideUserSwitchingExperienceModal") -
🎉 Done! You now have full access to Scratch Pad again — no login, no workspace required.
🧠 Why This Works
These commands toggle Postman’s internal feature flags that control how the workspace UI and offline mode are displayed. Essentially, you’re telling Postman to behave like an older version, where Scratch Pad was the default.
⚠️ Notes
- This tweak might reset after Postman updates, so keep the steps handy.
- It’s meant for personal or offline testing only — avoid using it for team workspaces or production setups.
- The commands are safe; they simply modify client-side settings.
✅ Final Thoughts
Postman’s move to enforce sign-in and cloud workspaces makes sense for collaboration — but sometimes, developers just want the simplicity of offline Scratch Pad.
This little trick gives you back that flexibility. Happy testing! 🚀