Isn’t it frustrating when you have to keep switching back and forth between windows on your computer? Whether you’re doing homework, working on a project, or just browsing, it’s much easier when you can see two windows at the same time. Thankfully, it’s super easy to have two windows side by side on your screen. Just drag one window to the left edge, another to the right, and voilà! You’ve got a split screen. Now, let’s dive into the details so you know exactly how to do this without any hiccups.
How to Have Two Windows Side by Side
In this section, we’ll guide you through the process of splitting your screen so you can view two windows at once. This will not only help you multitask more efficiently but also make your desktop look super organized.
Step 1: Open Both Windows
Make sure both of the windows you want to see are open and ready to go.
Before you can split your screen, you’ll need to have both windows open. It could be a web browser and a Word document, or maybe two different websites you want to compare. If one of them is minimized, go ahead and maximize it.
Step 2: Drag the First Window to One Side
Click and hold the title bar at the top of one window, then drag it to the left or right edge of your screen until you see a transparent outline.
When you drag the window to the edge, your computer will automatically resize it to fit half of your screen. You’ll see a faint outline showing where the window will snap into place, which is a handy visual cue.
Step 3: Release the Mouse Button
Let go of the mouse button to snap the window into place.
Once you release the mouse button, the window will lock into one half of your screen, and you’ll be ready to set the second window.
Step 4: Drag the Second Window to the Opposite Side
Now, click and drag the second window to the other edge of your screen.
Just like with the first window, drag it until you see the outline showing where it will fit. Release the mouse button to snap it into the other half of the screen.
Step 5: Adjust Window Sizes If Needed
If you want, drag the border between the two windows to resize them to your liking.
Sometimes the default 50-50 split is perfect, but other times you might want one window bigger than the other. Simply click and drag the dividing line to adjust the sizes.
Once you complete these steps, you’ll have both of your windows neatly placed side by side. This setup allows you to quickly glance between both windows without losing track of what you’re doing. Whether you’re comparing data, taking notes, or just watching a video while browsing, having windows side by side is a game-changer.
Tips for Having Two Windows Side by Side
- Use keyboard shortcuts like the Windows key + Left or Right arrow to quickly snap windows to the sides.
- If you’re using a Mac, try the Split View feature by clicking and holding the green full-screen button on the window.
- Remember that not all apps support this feature; if a window won’t snap, it may need to be updated.
- On larger monitors, you can even have more than two windows open side by side.
- If you frequently use this feature, consider investing in a dual-monitor setup for even more screen real estate.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use this feature on my tablet?
Yes, many tablets have a split screen feature, but the process might differ slightly based on the operating system.
What if the windows won’t snap?
Ensure both windows are not minimized or in full-screen mode and that your system supports window snapping.
How do I revert to one window?
Simply click and drag the windows away from the sides or press the maximize button.
Can I have more than two windows side by side?
On larger screens, you can snap more than two windows, but they will be smaller and might be harder to read.
Is there a keyboard shortcut for this?
Yes, on Windows, you can use the Windows key + Arrow keys to snap windows. On Mac, use Mission Control with F3 or swipe up with three fingers.
Summary
- Open both windows.
- Drag the first window to one side.
- Release to snap it in place.
- Drag the second window to the opposite side.
- Adjust window sizes as needed.
Conclusion
There you have it! With just a few simple steps, you’ve learned how to have two windows side by side on your desktop or laptop. This trick can save you loads of time and make multitasking a breeze. Plus, it’s like giving yourself a mini-command center right on your screen. If you find yourself constantly flipping between tasks, this setup can be a real game-changer. Not only does it make your workflow smoother, but it also looks pretty cool. If this technique piqued your interest, there are more ways to optimize your digital workspace. You might want to explore virtual desktops, or even consider a dual-monitor setup for those heavy-duty projects. So go ahead, give it a try, and see how much more productive you can be. And remember, the next time someone asks how to have two windows side by side, you’ll be the go-to expert!
Kermit Matthews is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with more than a decade of experience writing technology guides. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has spent much of his professional career in IT management.
He specializes in writing content about iPhones, Android devices, Microsoft Office, and many other popular applications and devices.