Splitting the screen on a Mac is a game-changer when it comes to multitasking. It allows you to work on two different applications side-by-side, without the need to constantly switch back and forth between them. Imagine writing a report on one side of the screen while having your research notes open on the other. Sounds convenient, right? Well, it’s quite easy too. All it takes is a few clicks and drags, and you’ll be multitasking like a pro in no time.
Step by Step Tutorial: How to Split Screen on Mac for Multitasking
Before we dive into the steps, let’s understand what we’re trying to achieve. Split-screen on Mac, also known as Split View, lets you fill your screen with two apps without having to manually resize and position the windows. Ready to give it a go? Let’s get started.
Step 1: Open the two apps you want to use in Split View
Open the two applications you wish to use side by side.
Once the apps are open, you’ll need to decide which one you want on the left and which on the right. This will come into play in the next steps.
Step 2: Click and hold the green full-screen button in the top-left corner of the first app
Click and hold the green button until you see half of your screen shade.
This green button is typically used to enter full-screen mode, but it also activates Split View. By clicking and holding it, you’re telling your Mac you want to enter Split View instead of going full screen.
Step 3: Drag the app to the left or right side of the screen
Drag your chosen app to the side of the screen you prefer.
You’ll see one half of your screen become shaded, which indicates that’s where the app will be placed when you release the button. Drag the app to your preferred side and let go.
Step 4: Click on the second app to fill the other half of the screen
Click the second app to fill the other side of your screen.
The second app will automatically fill the other half of the screen, completing the Split View. You can now work in both apps simultaneously without any overlap.
After completing these steps, you’ll have two applications running side by side in a split-screen view. You can click and drag the divider in the middle to adjust the size of each app’s window to your liking. Now, you’re all set to multitask efficiently on your Mac.
Tips for Split Screen on Mac for Multitasking
- If you want to exit Split View, simply move your cursor to the top of the screen and click the green full-screen button again.
- You can use Mission Control to see all open windows, including those in Split View, by swiping up with three or four fingers on your trackpad.
- Not all apps support Split View, so if the green button doesn’t work, that app may not be compatible.
- You can also enter Split View by right-clicking on the green button and selecting ‘Tile Window to Left of Screen’ or ‘Tile Window to Right of Screen.’
- Remember, you can always adjust the width of the windows by dragging the divider to suit your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use Split View with more than two apps?
No, Split View is designed to work with only two apps side by side.
Do all Mac apps support Split View?
Not all apps support Split View. If an app doesn’t support it, the green full-screen button won’t have the Split View functionality.
How do I resize the windows in Split View?
Click and drag the divider in the middle of the screen to adjust the size of each window.
Can I use Split View on an external monitor?
Yes, Split View works on external monitors connected to your Mac.
What if I want to switch the sides of the apps in Split View?
You can click and drag the windows to switch sides, or exit Split View and start again, choosing the opposite sides.
Summary
- Open the two apps you want to use.
- Click and hold the green full-screen button on the first app.
- Drag the app to the left or right side of the screen.
- Click on the second app to fill the other half of the screen.
Conclusion
Multitasking on a Mac doesn’t have to be a constant juggle of window sizes and positions. With the Split Screen feature, you can effortlessly work on two apps simultaneously, boosting your productivity and making your workflow more efficient. Whether you’re a student, professional, or just someone who likes to get more done, knowing how to split the screen on a Mac for multitasking is a skill worth mastering. Give it a try, and 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.