Having two windows side by side on your Mac is a game-changer for multitasking. It’s like having a digital split-screen where you can work more efficiently. Here’s a quick rundown: click and hold the green full-screen button on a window, then choose “Tile Window to Left of Screen” or “Tile Window to Right of Screen” from the menu. Select another window to fill the other side, and boom, you’re all set! Now, let’s dive into the detailed steps to make this happen.
How to Have Two Windows Side by Side on a Mac
Ready to boost your productivity? Follow these steps to effortlessly arrange two windows side by side on your Mac. This feature lets you view and interact with both windows simultaneously.
Step 1: Open Your Two Windows
First, make sure you have the two windows that you want to use open and ready.
This might be a document and a web browser, or maybe two different apps. Just have them open before you begin.
Step 2: Click the Green Button
Take one of the windows and locate the green full-screen button at the top-left corner. Click and hold this button.
When you hold the button, a menu will pop up, giving you the option to tile the window.
Step 3: Tile the First Window
Select “Tile Window to Left of Screen” or “Tile Window to Right of Screen” from the menu.
Choose the side you prefer. This will snap the window to one half of your screen.
Step 4: Select the Second Window
You’ll see the other side of your screen populated with your open windows. Click the second window to fill the other side.
This action completes the side-by-side setup, letting you view both windows together.
Step 5: Adjust as Needed
Move the dividing line between the windows to make one side bigger or smaller.
You’re in control here. Adjust the sizes to suit your workflow and comfort.
After following these steps, you will see both windows side by side, making it easy to work in both without switching back and forth. You can interact with each window individually while keeping them both visible.
Tips for Having Two Windows Side by Side on a Mac
- Use keyboard shortcuts to make the process faster. For example, Control + Command + F will enter full-screen mode.
- Remember that not all apps support the side-by-side feature. Check compatibility if a window doesn’t tile.
- You can exit side-by-side mode by pressing the Escape key or clicking the green button again.
- Customize the Touch Bar (if available) to include the full-screen button for quick access.
- Consider using apps like Magnet for more advanced window management options.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use more than two windows side by side?
No, the built-in feature allows for only two windows side by side.
What if the green button doesn’t show the tiling option?
Ensure your Mac is updated. Some apps might not support this feature.
Can I adjust the size of each window?
Yes, drag the dividing line between the windows to resize.
How do I exit side-by-side mode?
Click the green button again or press the Escape key to revert.
Is there a shortcut to manage windows faster?
Yes, keyboard shortcuts and third-party apps like Magnet can help streamline the process.
Summary
- Open your two windows.
- Click the green button.
- Tile the first window.
- Select the second window.
- Adjust as needed.
Conclusion
Having two windows side by side on your Mac is a fantastic way to enhance your workflow. Think of it as having two workspaces open at once, helping you juggle tasks like a pro. Whether you’re comparing documents, researching while writing, or dragging and dropping files, this setup can save you time and effort.
If you’re serious about multitasking, consider exploring third-party apps that offer more advanced features, like snapping windows into various configurations. And remember, practice makes perfect. The more you use this feature, the more natural it will feel.
So, go ahead and give it a try. Experience the ease of switching between windows without losing your place. Once you’ve mastered this, you’ll wonder how you ever managed without it. Happy multitasking!
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.