When you are trying to be more productive, one of the features that can help you achieve that is the split screen. One of the best ways to work on a couple of different screens is by using a split screen feature.
Whether you are in need to compare some documents, take notes during a video call, or browse the web while you are working on a report - the split screen feature will allow you to view multiple screens at once.
Here, in this article, you will learn how to use this feature on different laptops as well as operating systems.
What is Split Screen?
Now, Split Screen is when the display of your laptop is divided into two or more sections and each of the sections is going to show you a different window or app. It will help you in working on multiple things at one time rather than constantly switching between the programs. Instead of closing and opening the different browsers etc all the time, you can keep everything in view at the same time.
Why Use Split Screen Feature?
There are many reasons why you can use this feature. We have mentioned all of them below.
1. More Productivity:
You can work on two or more tasks side by side without any hassle. You do not have to keep switching between the different browsers and this is really easy to use and does not disrupt your workflow again and again.
2. Better Focus:
You will be able to see all the information at the same time. This means that you can stay focused without a problem.
3. Easy Comparison:
If you are in need of comparing documents, images, or spreadsheets without having to open and close them up again and again, you can use this feature.
4. Streamlined Workflow:
You can easily drag and drop the files between the windows. This is going to make your tasks even faster and easier.
Now, let’s take a look at how we can Split Screens on our laptops.
How To Split Screen on Windows 10 and 11
These operating systems make it pretty simple to utilize this feature due to the presence of their built-in features like Snap Layouts and Snap Assist.
Windows 10: Using Snap Assist
Here, you can take the help of Snap Assist easily to do this process. Here is how you can achieve this.
● Drag and Drop:
- You have to click on the title bar that is found at the top of the window of the app that you want to work on.
- You can drag it to the left or the right edge of the display.
- You can let go of the window when you see the shadow outline. It is going to snap into place.
● Keyboard Shortcuts:
- You have to press the Windows key + Left Arrow to snap a window to the left side.
- You can press the Windows key + Right Arrow to take a window to the right side.
● Snap Assist Menu:
- Here, you have to click the maximize button on any window.
- You will see options that will snap the window into different sections. Select one to split it up.
Windows 11: Using Snap Layouts
Now, this one has a feature that is known as the Snap Layouts - and this is even easier to use than that. Here is how you can easily do that
1. Snap Layouts Menu:
- You have to take your mouse over the maximize button (the square button that is located in the top-right corner of the window).
- Now, you can see the appearance of a menu that has a couple of different layout options.
- You can now choose a layout and click on the windows you want to fill the remaining space.
2. Keyboard Shortcuts:
- Here, you can tap on the Windows key + Z to open the Snap Layouts menu.
How To Split Screen on Mac
If you are a Mac user, the Split View feature allows you to easily split the screen.
1. Enter Split View:
- You have to click and hold the green full-screen button (the circle button in the top-left corner of the window).
- Now, you can choose either Tile Window to the left of the Screen or Tile Window to the Right of the Screen.
- Pick another window to fill the other side.
2. Adjust Split View:
- Here, you are required to move the cursor over the black bar that is located between the windows.
- It can easily be dragged to the right or the left and can be resized as per your requirements.
3. Exit Split View:
- If you want to exit from here, you have to take your cursor towards the top part of the display which will then pop open the menu bar.
- Now, you can click on the green button on either window to go back to normal view. When you are done, you have to utilize your arrow keys to select a layout, and then simply hit the Enter
How To Split Screen on Android Devices
The best thing about this feature is that many Android phones and tablets also tend to support split-screen multitasking. Here's how you can do it:
1. Open Recent Apps:
- You have to swipe up from the bottom (or tap the Recent Apps button) so that you can see your apps that are open.
2. Activate It:
- You will now tap on the app icon on whichever app you want to work on.
- You have to choose Split Screen from the menu.
3. Choose a Second App:
- You can make a selection of another app from the recent apps or wander off to your home screen in order to fill the other side of your display.
4. Adjust It:
- You have to drag the divider bar between the two apps so that you can resize the windows.
Tips for Using This Feature Effectively
To make the most out of this feature, follow these tips:
1. Opt for a Bigger Display:
You should use this on a larger display or higher resolution screen as it gives you more space to work with. This is going to make your multitasking easier without making it super messy or congested.
2. Learn Keyboard Shortcuts:
You should know the keyboard shortcuts like Windows + Arrow keys or Control + Option + Left/Right arrows (on Mac) will help in speeding up your flow of work.
3. Try Different Layouts:
You can experiment with the different layouts to see which one works best for your respective tasks. Some might prefer a 50/50 split, while others might require a 70/30 one—for example, if you are researching and writing.
4. Consider a Second Monitor:
If you are in need of even more space than this, you can get a second monitor and connect it to your monitor. This is going to give you a wider space to work in and also help in increasing your productivity.
5. Use Mouse Gestures:
You can try dragging the windows to organize your workspace. This will make it easier to adjust your view as per your needs.
Conclusion
Learning how to use this feature on your laptop can help in boosting up your productivity a lot. It will allow you to work on different tasks at the same time without having to constantly switch between the different screens. Whether you are using Snap Assist, Split View, or something else, the process is pretty simple and does not require much use of tech to get started.
If you are using the correct tools and gain a little practice, this will be an easy part of your daily work routine. Do not forget that you can always experiment with the different layouts at your convenience.
Get the most out of this useful feature and start multitasking with ease. We have mentioned super easy ways to achieve this, now you can easily follow them step by step and be on your journey of perfectly splitting your screen to your convenience.
