If you’re looking to boost your productivity on Windows 11, learning how to use the split screen feature is a game-changer. By splitting your screen, you can easily run and view multiple applications side by side. This quick guide will walk you through the simple steps, so you can multitask like a pro in no time.
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How to Use Split Screen in Windows 11
Let’s get started with how to use split screen in Windows 11. By following these steps, you’ll be able to have two or more windows open and visible simultaneously, making multitasking much easier.
Step 1: Open the First Application
First, open the application or window you want to use.
This can be any program, such as a browser, document, or photo viewer. Just make sure it’s fully open and not minimized.
Step 2: Drag the Window to One Side of the Screen
Next, click and hold the title bar of the window, then drag it to the left or right edge of the screen until it snaps into place.
You’ll see a translucent outline indicating where the window will go. Once you release the mouse button, the window will occupy half of the screen.
Step 3: Select the Second Application
After the first window snaps into place, Windows will show thumbnails of your other open applications on the opposite side of the screen.
Choose the application you want to open by clicking on its thumbnail. This will snap it to the other half of your screen.
Step 4: Adjust the Split
You can adjust the size of each window by dragging the divider between the two split screens.
Move it to the left or right to give more space to one application or the other, depending on your needs.
Step 5: Add More Windows
If you want to add more than two windows, use the same method by dragging additional windows to the corners of the screen for a grid layout.
Windows 11 supports up to four applications in a split screen, giving you even more flexibility.
Once you’ve completed these steps, your screen will be split between the applications you selected, allowing you to work more efficiently.
Tips for Using Split Screen in Windows 11
- Use Keyboard Shortcuts: Press “Windows + Left/Right Arrow” to snap the current window to the left or right.
- Maximize Productivity: Use split screen to compare documents, drag and drop files, or keep an eye on multiple chats.
- Customize Your Layout: Experiment with snapping windows into different corners for a unique layout that suits your workflow.
- Utilize Virtual Desktops: For even more organization, use virtual desktops to group your tasks separately.
- Explore Snap Layouts: Windows 11 offers built-in snap layouts accessible by hovering over the maximize button.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I exit split screen mode?
Simply click and drag the divider all the way to the edge of the screen, or click the maximize button on any of the windows to return to full screen.
Can I use split screen with more than two windows?
Yes, you can use the split screen feature to arrange up to four windows in a grid layout.
What if the window doesn’t snap into place?
Ensure that the window is not minimized and that you’re dragging it to the very edge of the screen. If it still doesn’t work, try using the keyboard shortcut “Windows + Left/Right Arrow.”
Are there any limitations to using split screen?
Some applications might not support snapping, though most modern apps do. Also, screen size and resolution can impact how much information is viewable.
Can I split screen across multiple monitors?
Split screen functionality works on individual monitors. You can’t drag a window to span across multiple monitors using the split screen feature.
Summary
- Open the first application.
- Drag the window to one side of the screen.
- Select the second application.
- Adjust the split.
- Add more windows if needed.
Conclusion
Mastering how to use split screen in Windows 11 can significantly enhance your productivity. This feature allows you to juggle multiple tasks efficiently, whether you’re working, studying, or just browsing. By following the simple steps outlined above, you can quickly set up your screen to display multiple applications at once. Remember to explore the various tips and tricks to further optimize your split screen experience.
If you’ve found this guide helpful, consider sharing it with friends or colleagues who might also benefit from learning about this handy feature. For more detailed tutorials on Windows 11, keep an eye on our upcoming articles. Happy multitasking!
Matthew Burleigh
Matthew Burleigh has been writing tech tutorials since 2008. His writing has appeared on dozens of different websites and been read over 50 million times.
After receiving his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Computer Science he spent several years working in IT management for small businesses. However, he now works full time writing content online and creating websites.
His main writing topics include iPhones, Microsoft Office, Google Apps, Android, and Photoshop, but he has also written about many other tech topics as well.
Read his full bio here.
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