Splitting your screen on Windows 11 is a breeze and can make multitasking a lot easier. Simply drag a window to one side of the screen until you see a shadow, indicating where it will snap into position. Release, and Windows will automatically suggest other open programs to fill the remaining space. This quick trick lets you work with two apps side by side, perfect for comparing documents or taking notes while watching a video.
How to Split Screen on Windows 11
Ready to become a multitasking pro? By following the steps below, you’ll learn how to split your screen on Windows 11, making it easy to work with multiple applications at once.
Step 1: Open the Applications
First, open the two or more applications or windows you want to use simultaneously.
In order to split your screen effectively, you need to have the programs open that you wish to view side by side. This sets up the foundation for the split-screen process.
Step 2: Drag a Window
Grab the title bar of one of the windows and drag it to either the left or right edge of the screen until you see a translucent outline.
Dragging the window to the side is a visual way to "snap" the window into place. Once you see the outline, it’s a signal from Windows indicating where the window will be placed.
Step 3: Snap the Window
Release the mouse button to snap the window into place.
Releasing the mouse button locks the window into the position you selected. Windows will then offer suggestions for the remaining screen space.
Step 4: Choose the Other Application
Select one of the suggested applications from the remaining open windows to fill the other side of the screen.
After snapping the first window, Windows 11 provides you with options for filling the rest of your screen with other open applications, making it easy to choose your next tool.
Step 5: Adjust the Divider
Use the divider that appears between the two windows to adjust their sizes to your liking.
After snapping both windows, you’re not stuck with the initial size. Adjusting the divider lets you customize the space each window takes up on your screen.
When you’ve completed these steps, you’ll have a neatly arranged split screen with two applications or windows side by side. This setup can save you time and boost productivity by reducing the time spent switching between programs.
Tips for Splitting Screen on Windows 11
- Use Keyboard Shortcuts: Press Windows key + Left or Right Arrow to quickly snap a window.
- Snap Assist: Windows 11 has a feature called Snap Assist that helps you choose another window to snap.
- Adjust Settings: You can tweak how snapping works by going to Settings > System > Multitasking.
- Experiment with Multiple Windows: Try snapping more than just two windows by using different snapping options.
- Utilize Virtual Desktops: Create separate desktops to organize different projects and tasks.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I split the screen into more than two sections?
Yes, Windows 11 allows snapping into four quadrants for more complex multitasking.
How do I disable Snap Assist?
You can disable Snap Assist by going to Settings > System > Multitasking and turning off the Snap windows toggle.
Will this feature work with all applications?
Most modern applications support screen splitting, but some older programs might not fully optimize with this feature.
Can I change the size of the split-screen sections?
Yes, you can click and drag the divider between the windows to resize them.
Is there a keyboard shortcut to close split-screen mode?
You can press Windows + Up Arrow to maximize or Windows + Down Arrow to minimize a window, leaving split-screen mode.
Summary
- Open the applications.
- Drag a window to the screen edge.
- Snap the window into place.
- Choose the other application.
- Adjust the divider.
Conclusion
Mastering how to split screens on Windows 11 can feel like discovering a secret pathway in a digital forest. This feature is all about enhancing productivity and making your computing life a bit smoother. It’s like having a personal assistant arrange everything perfectly on your desk, allowing you to focus on what you do best. By utilizing split screens, you can compare data, take notes, and keep an eye on multiple projects without losing track of what’s happening where.
If you haven’t tried it yet, go ahead and give it a few spins. Experiment with different combinations, see what works best for your workflow, and don’t hesitate to use virtual desktops for even more organization. Remember, every new skill in Windows 11 adds a tool to your digital toolkit, ready to make your tasks faster and more efficient. So, dive in and make that screen split like a pro!
Matthew Burleigh has been a freelance writer since the early 2000s. You can find his writing all over the Web, where his content has collectively been read millions of times.
Matthew received his Master’s degree in Computer Science, then spent over a decade as an IT consultant for small businesses before focusing on writing and website creation.
The topics he covers for MasterYourTech.com include iPhones, Microsoft Office, and Google Apps.
You can read his full bio here.