Splitting your screen in Windows 11 can make multitasking a breeze. By following a few simple steps, you can easily view and work on multiple apps or files at once. Here’s a quick rundown: grab a window by its title bar, drag it to the edge of your screen, and let Windows 11’s Snap feature do the rest. Once you get the hang of it, you’ll wonder how you ever got by without this nifty trick!
How to Split Screen in Windows 11
This section will guide you through the steps to split your screen in Windows 11, allowing you to view and work on multiple windows side-by-side.
Step 1: Grab the Window
Click the title bar of the window you want to move.
The title bar is located at the top of the window and usually has the name of the app or file you’re working on. Click and hold this bar to move the window around your screen.
Step 2: Drag to the Edge
Drag the window to the left or right edge of your screen.
As you drag the window, you’ll see a translucent outline showing where the window will be placed. Make sure to drag it all the way to the edge until your cursor touches the screen edge.
Step 3: Snap the Window into Place
Let go of the window to snap it into place.
Once you release the mouse button, the window will automatically resize to fill half of your screen. Windows 11’s Snap feature will also show thumbnails of your other open windows on the opposite side.
Step 4: Select Another Window
Click a thumbnail to snap another window to the remaining space.
Choose one of the thumbnails displayed on the other half of your screen to fill that space. This allows you to view both windows side-by-side.
Step 5: Adjust the Divider
Drag the divider to resize both windows.
In between the two snapped windows, you’ll see a divider. Click and drag it to resize the windows according to your preference, allowing more room for one or the other.
After completing these steps, you will have successfully split your screen in Windows 11, making multitasking more efficient and manageable.
Tips for Splitting Screen in Windows 11
- Use Keyboard Shortcuts: Press Win + Left Arrow or Win + Right Arrow to quickly snap a window to the side.
- Snap Layouts: Hover over the maximize button for different snap options.
- Multiple Monitors: Snap works across multiple monitors, allowing for even more flexibility.
- Task View: Use Task View (Win + Tab) to see all your open windows and snap them as needed.
- Resizable Dividers: Adjust the divider between windows to prioritize one window over the other.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I split the screen into more than two parts?
Yes, Windows 11 allows you to split the screen into three or four parts using Snap Layouts.
What if Snap Assist is not working?
Ensure that Snap Assist is enabled in Settings > System > Multitasking.
Can I use Snap Assist with keyboard shortcuts?
Yes, use combinations like Win + Up Arrow and Win + Down Arrow along with Left and Right Arrow keys.
Does Snap Assist work with all apps?
Most modern apps are compatible with Snap Assist, but some older or specialized apps may not support it.
Can I save my snap layout?
Currently, Windows 11 doesn’t offer a feature to save snap layouts, but you can quickly re-snap them using the steps provided.
Summary
- Grab the window.
- Drag to the edge.
- Snap the window into place.
- Select another window.
- Adjust the divider.
Conclusion
Splitting your screen in Windows 11 is a game-changer for productivity. With just a few easy steps, you can manage multiple tasks without constantly switching back and forth between windows. Whether you’re working on a school project, juggling different work assignments, or just trying to keep an eye on your email while browsing the web, splitting your screen can make life so much easier.
If you want to dive deeper into mastering Windows 11, there’s plenty more to explore. From using virtual desktops to customizing your taskbar, Windows 11 offers a plethora of features designed to streamline your workflow. So give screen splitting a try and take your multitasking to the next level. Happy snapping!
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.