I. Introduction
Do you find yourself constantly switching back and forth between different windows and apps on your computer or mobile device, trying to multitask efficiently? Split screen can come in handy when you need to view and use two windows side-by-side, without having to constantly alt-tab or swipe back and forth. In this article, we will guide you through step-by-step instructions for splitting screen on various devices, provide tips and tricks for efficient multitasking, and troubleshoot common issues.
II. Step-by-Step Guide to Split Screen on Various Devices
A. Split Screen on Windows
If you’re using Windows, splitting screen is relatively simple and straightforward. Here’s how:
1. Windows 10
Step 1: Drag your first window to either the left or right edge of the screen until you see a transparent overlay appear.
Step 2: Release the window and it will automatically resize to fill the side of the screen you have dragged it to.
Step 3: Open a second window and drag it towards the opposite edge of your screen. A small thumbnail of your first window will appear on that side of the screen. Release your second window and it will fill the opposite side of the screen, with the first window taking up the other side.
2. Windows 8/8.1
In Windows 8/8.1, you can also use the “Snap” feature:
Step 1: Drag your first window to either the left or right edge of the screen until you see a transparent overlay appear and release the window.
Step 2: Open a second window and drag it to the opposite side of the screen until it snaps into place.
Step 3: Adjust the size of each window by dragging the border between the two.
3. Windows 7
Step 1: Open the windows you want to use side-by-side.
Step 2: Click and hold the title bar of the first window, and drag it to the left or right side of the screen until your cursor reaches the edge of the screen.
Step 3: Release the mouse button to snap the first window to the edge of the screen.
Step 4: Repeat the same process for the second window, but snap it to the other side of the screen instead.
B. Split Screen on Mac
Split screen is only available on Mac OS X El Capitan or later. If you’re running an older version of Mac OS X, check out the next section for alternatives.
1. Mac OS X El Capitan or later
Step 1: Click and hold the green full-screen button on the top left of a window until your screen splits in half.
Step 2: Choose a second window to fill the other half of your screen.
Step 3: To adjust how much of the screen each window takes up, simply click and drag the divider between the two.
2. Mac OS X Yosemite or earlier
While Mac OS X Yosemite or earlier doesn’t have the split view feature, you can still use third-party apps such as Moom or Divvy to get similar functions.
C. Split Screen on Android
Split screen is a relatively new feature on Android and not all devices support it, but most newer Samsung devices allow a split screen mode. Here’s how to do it:
1. Samsung
Step 1: Open the first app you want to use.
Step 2: Press and hold the “recent apps” button (usually on the right side of the navigation bar) until the screen splits in half.
Step 3: Choose a second app to fill the other half of the screen.
2. Other Android devices
Depending on your device and Android version, there might be some variations in terms of how to activate split screen. Here’s a general guide:
Step 1: Open the first app you want to use.
Step 2: Tap the “recent apps” button (usually on the right side of the home button) to bring up a list of recent apps.
Step 3: Tap and hold the app icon that you want to have in split-screen mode, then select “split screen” from the drop-down menu.
Step 4: Choose a second app to fill the other half of the screen.
D. Split Screen on iPhone and iPad
Split view only works on iOS 11 or later iPads and iPhones. Here’s how:
1. iOS 11 or later
Note: Split view is called “Split View” on iPad and “Split Screen” on iPhone.
Step 1: Swipe up from the bottom to bring up the Dock.
Step 2: Open the first app you want to use from the Dock and drag it to the left or right side of the screen. Let go of the app when you reach the edge.
Step 3: Open the second app that you want to use from the Dock. It will automatically fill the other half of the screen.
2. iOS 10 or earlier
Split view is not available on iOS 10 or earlier devices.
III. 5 Tools to Help You Split Screen Like a Pro
While most modern devices have built-in split screen features, they may not always be the most efficient or customizable. Here are some third-party tools to enhance your split-screen experience:
A. Snap Assist (Windows)
Snap Assist is a built-in Windows 10 feature that helps you snap windows to the sides or corners of your screen. It’s especially useful if you want to snap multiple windows on the same side of the screen, or if you prefer to snap windows using a keyboard shortcut instead of dragging.
B. Split View (Mac)
Split View is a handy third-party app that provides even more advanced customization for your split-screen setup, including shortcuts, advanced window management, and customizable window size and placement. It’s great for productivity and multitasking.
C. Split Screen and Pop (Android)
Split Screen and Pop is a free app specifically designed for Samsung devices that allows you to split screen any two apps in full-screen mode, as well as resizing windows and toggling between split and full screen modes on the fly. It can also be customized to quickly switch between favorite apps.
D. Split View (iOS)
Split View is a third-party app that enhances the built-in split view feature on iOS, allowing you to split screen any app (instead of only certain apps) and adjust the size of the split window. It also includes a variety of window management features and shortcuts to boost productivity.
E. BetterSnapTool (for all devices)
For those who use both Mac and Windows, BetterSnapTool is a great tool that works on both platforms, providing customizable snap and resize features to optimize your split-screen experience. It even offers keyboard shortcuts to make it easier to snap and resize windows without a mouse or trackpad.
IV. How to Efficiently Multitask with Split Screen on Your Computer
A. Advantages of Multitasking with Split Screen
Split screen can be a great tool for boosting productivity and multitasking more efficiently:
- You can view and work on multiple windows side-by-side without having to switch between them constantly, which can save you time and reduce distraction.
- You can compare and reference two different windows or apps more easily, without having to manually resize or rearrange them.
- You can keep an eye on multiple windows or apps that require attention (such as email and calendar) without having to completely shift your focus from one to another.
B. How to Smoothly Switch between Split Screens
Switching between split screens on your computer or mobile device should be seamless and easy:
- On Windows and Mac, click on the title bar of the window you want to switch to, or use keyboard shortcuts to switch between windows.
- On Android, swipe left or right on the navigation bar to switch between apps.
- On iOS, swipe up to bring up the Dock and tap on the app you want to switch to.
C. Tips to Boost Productivity with Split Screen
Here are some additional tips to help you make the most out of split screen:
- Use shortcuts: If you’re frequently using split screen mode, consider learning some keyboard shortcuts to make it easier and faster to split and switch between windows.
- Choose complementary apps: When using split screen, it’s helpful to choose two apps that complement each other in terms of task and functionality, such as a text editor and a web browser, or a spreadsheet and a calculator.
- Customize your split view: Depending on the device and apps you’re using, you may be able to customize the size, placement, and ratio of your split screens to better suit your task and preference.
V. The Advantages and Disadvantages of Using Split Screen on Your Mobile Device
While split screen is a useful feature that can save you time and boost your productivity, it’s not always suitable for all tasks and devices. Here are some advantages and disadvantages you should consider before using split screen on your mobile device:
A. Advantages of Using Split Screen on Mobile Devices
- You can multitask more efficiently and view more information on a small screen.
- You can use your favorite apps in split screen mode, even if they don’t officially support it.
- You can follow instructions or compare notes on one screen while working on another.
B. Disadvantages of Using Split Screen on Mobile Devices
- Split screen can drain your battery faster, especially if you’re using resource-intensive apps or running multiple apps simultaneously.
- Split screen can be harder to read and navigate, especially on smaller screens or with apps that are not optimized for split view.
- Split screen can make your device slower and less responsive, especially if you’re using an older or lower-specs device.
C. When to Use Split Screen on Mobile Devices
Depending on your device and tasks, split screen can be more or less suitable. Here are some scenarios where split screen might be helpful on mobile devices:
- When you’re taking notes or following instructions while browsing the web or watching a video.
- When you’re responding to emails or messages while on a conference call or in a meeting.
- When you’re editing photos or videos and need to compare different versions or effects side-by-side.
VI. Troubleshooting Common Issues When Splitting Screen
While split screen is generally straightforward, you may encounter some issues or limitations depending on your device and apps. Here are some common issues and how to troubleshoot them:
A. Issues When Splitting Screen on Windows
- Windows snap not working: Make sure you have turned on the “snap” feature in your settings and that the second window is in the correct mode (e.g. not maximized or minimized).
- Apps not supported: Some apps may not be compatible with split screen mode on Windows. Try using a third-party app or resizing the windows manually.
- Screen resolution: If you have a small or low-resolution screen, splitting screen may not be practical or feasible.
B. Issues When Splitting Screen on Mac
- App mode not supported: Some apps may not support split view mode or may not have a compatible version. Try using a different app or check for updates.
- Screen resolution: If you have a small or low-resolution screen, splitting screen may not be practical or feasible.
- Size limitations: Some apps may require a large or full screen to function properly, which may not be possible with split view mode.