Splitting your screen on Windows 11 is a breeze, letting you multitask like a pro. Just drag a window to one side of your screen and release it to snap it into place. Then, choose another window to fill the empty space. Voilà! You’ve got a split screen. Let’s dive into a detailed guide to perfect this handy trick.
How to Split Screen on Windows 11
Here’s a simple guide to splitting your screen in Windows 11, enabling you to manage multiple tasks efficiently. By following these steps, you’ll learn how to keep your workspace organized and boost productivity.
Step 1: Drag the Window
Grab the window you want to snap by clicking its title bar and dragging it to the side of your screen.
When you move the window close to the edge, you’ll see a transparent outline showing where it will snap. Release it when you see this outline.
Step 2: Choose Another Window
After the first window snaps into place, you’ll see thumbnails of your other open windows on the empty side. Click on one to fill the space.
This feature allows you to quickly select another open window without needing to search through your taskbar. Convenient, right?
Step 3: Adjust the Divider
Once both windows are in place, drag the divider in the middle to resize them as needed.
This flexibility lets you decide how much space each window should take, depending on what you’re working on.
Step 4: Use the Snap Layout Feature
Hover over the maximize button on a window to view snap layout options and choose your preferred layout.
Snap layouts provide various configurations, ideal for those times when you want more than two windows on your screen.
Step 5: Return to Single Window
To return to a single window view, simply maximize one of the windows by clicking the maximize button.
This action will bring the window back to full-screen mode, allowing you to focus on one task if needed.
After you complete these steps, your screen setup will help you tackle multiple tasks at once, making your workflow smoother and more efficient. You’ll be able to compare documents, take notes while watching a video, or keep an eye on multiple sources of information.
Tips for Splitting Screens on Windows 11
- Experiment with different snap layouts to find the best one for your tasks.
- Use keyboard shortcuts like Windows + Left/Right Arrow to snap windows quickly.
- Remember, you can snap up to four windows using the quadrant snap feature.
- Explore virtual desktops if you need more than one workspace.
- Keep your desktop organized to swiftly locate the windows you need.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I split the screen into more than two windows?
Yes, Windows 11 allows you to snap up to four windows using the quadrant snap feature.
How do I use the keyboard to snap windows?
You can use Windows + Left or Right Arrow keys to snap windows to either side.
Can I use split screen with apps from the Microsoft Store?
Absolutely, most apps from the Microsoft Store support the split screen feature.
Is there a way to save my snap layout?
Currently, Windows 11 doesn’t have a built-in feature to save layouts, but third-party apps might help.
What should I do if snap assist isn’t working?
Ensure it’s enabled in Settings > System > Multitasking. Restarting your computer might also help.
Summary
- Drag the window to the screen edge.
- Choose another window to fill the space.
- Adjust the divider between windows.
- Use the snap layout feature.
- Maximize a window to return to single view.
Conclusion
Mastering the art of splitting your screen on Windows 11 can transform how you use your computer. By learning to juggle multiple tasks efficiently, you boost productivity and make the most of your digital workspace.
Whether you’re a student comparing notes and video lectures, a professional keeping track of emails and reports, or just someone who loves multitasking, this feature is a game-changer.
So, why not give it a try? Experiment with different layouts, get comfortable using keyboard shortcuts, and tailor your setup to fit your needs. Once you get the hang of it, you’ll wonder how you ever managed without it. For more tips on optimizing your Windows 11 experience, keep exploring and discovering new tricks.
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.