Sure, let’s dive into how to stop split screen on Windows 11. If you’ve found yourself with multiple apps squeezed side-by-side on your screen and you’re yearning for a clean, singular view, this guide has got you covered. With just a few clicks, you can wave goodbye to split screen mode and enjoy a clutter-free digital workspace. Here’s a quick rundown: click the maximize button on the app you want to focus on, or simply drag the divider bar to the edge of the screen to close one of the split views. Now, let’s break it down into detailed steps.
How to Stop Split Screen on Windows 11
We’ll walk through the steps to disable or exit the split screen mode on Windows 11, allowing you to focus on one application at a time.
Step 1: Click the Maximize Button
Find the app window you want to view and click the maximize button located at the top-right corner.
This button looks like a square and will expand the selected application to fill the entire screen, automatically closing the split screen view.
Step 2: Drag the Divider Bar
Locate the vertical or horizontal divider bar between the two apps on your screen.
Click and drag this divider bar to one side until the undesired app disappears, effectively closing the split view and leaving one full-sized app.
Step 3: Use the Task View
Press the Task View button on your taskbar, or use the Windows + Tab shortcut to open the Task View interface.
From here, you can select a single window to focus on, which will remove other windows from view and end the split screen mode.
Step 4: Close Unnecessary Windows
Simply close one of the windows by clicking the X button at the top-right corner of its window.
This step is straightforward and will exit the split screen mode as only one window remains open.
Step 5: Use Snap Layouts
If you’ve used Snap Layouts to split your screen, return to the Snap Layouts menu by hovering over the maximize button and choose the single window layout.
Select the desired window to fill this layout, effectively stopping any split screen arrangement.
After completing these steps, your screen will revert to displaying a single application. This will help create a focused environment, allowing you to concentrate on the task at hand without the distraction of other open applications.
Tips for Stopping Split Screen on Windows 11
- Explore Snap Layouts to understand how they function and avoid accidental triggers.
- Use keyboard shortcuts like Windows + Up Arrow to maximize windows quickly.
- Regularly close unused apps to prevent unwanted split screens.
- Customize your taskbar to easily access the Task View button.
- Practice dragging and dropping windows to quickly switch between split and full screen.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I stop apps from snapping in Windows 11?
You can disable the snap feature by going to Settings > System > Multitasking and turning off the Snap windows option.
Can I customize Snap Layouts in Windows 11?
Yes, Windows 11 allows some customization in Snap Layouts through the Multitasking settings, though the options are somewhat limited.
Are there keyboard shortcuts to exit split screen?
Yes, using Windows + Up Arrow will maximize the current window, exiting the split screen mode.
What if I can’t find the maximize button?
Ensure your window is not in full-screen mode, and hover your mouse near the top-right to reveal the button.
Do these steps work on older versions of Windows?
These steps are specifically tailored for Windows 11, though similar methods may work on Windows 10.
Summary
- Click the maximize button.
- Drag the divider bar.
- Use the Task View.
- Close unnecessary windows.
- Use Snap Layouts.
Conclusion
Mastering how to stop split screen on Windows 11 can significantly enhance your productivity by giving you control over your workspace. With the hustle and bustle of daily tasks, it’s easy to accidentally trigger split screen mode, but now you know how to effortlessly switch it off. Whether you’re a student trying to focus on an assignment or a professional aiming for a streamlined workflow, managing your screen space can make a world of difference.
It’s also worth exploring some advanced Windows features. You can delve into using virtual desktops to organize different tasks neatly or customize your settings further for a personalized experience. These tools, paired with your newfound knowledge of managing split screens, can transform your digital environment into one that truly works for you.
So, go ahead and try these techniques the next time you face an unwanted split screen. And remember, the real magic happens when you take control, letting technology work for you, not the other way around. Happy computing!
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.