How to Split Screen on Windows 10
Splitting the screen on Windows 10 can transform your productivity by allowing you to work with multiple windows simultaneously. To do this, you simply drag and snap windows to the sides of your screen. Here’s a quick overview: grab a window, drag it to the left or right edge, and release it when you see a translucent outline. Your window will snap into place, and you can choose another open window to fill the other half of the screen.
How to Split Screen on Windows 10
This step-by-step guide will show you exactly how to split your screen on Windows 10. By the end, you’ll be a multitasking pro!
Step 1: Open the Windows You Want to Use
Make sure you have at least two windows open.
Having multiple windows open is essential for splitting the screen. Whether it’s a browser window, a Word document, or any application, you need to have them ready to go.
Step 2: Drag One Window to the Side
Click and hold the title bar of one window and drag it to the left or right edge of the screen.
When you drag your window to the edge, you’ll see a translucent outline indicating where the window will snap. Release the mouse button, and the window will fill that half of the screen.
Step 3: Select Another Window to Fill the Other Half
After the first window snaps into place, Windows will show thumbnails of all other open windows. Click on one to fill the other half.
This nifty feature makes it easier to select your secondary window without having to manually position it.
Step 4: Adjust the Size of the Windows
You can resize both windows by hovering your mouse over the divider and dragging it left or right.
This step allows you to customize the space each window occupies, ensuring both windows fit your needs.
Step 5: Use Keyboard Shortcuts for Quick Split-Screen
Press Windows Key + Left Arrow or Right Arrow to snap the selected window to the side.
Keyboard shortcuts can save you time and make the process even more efficient. Practice using them to become more proficient.
Once you’ve completed these steps, you’ll see two windows side by side, allowing you to work more efficiently. You can switch between tasks without losing focus, making multitasking a breeze.
Tips for Splitting Screen on Windows 10
- Use Task View: Press Windows Key + Tab to see all your open windows and apps. This makes selecting windows for split-screen easier.
- Snap Assist: If Snap Assist is enabled, it will automatically suggest windows to fill the other half of the screen.
- Turn Off Snap Assist: If you find the suggestions annoying, you can turn them off in Settings > System > Multitasking.
- Experiment with Quadrant Snapping: Drag windows to the corners of your screen to have up to four windows arranged in quadrants.
- Use Virtual Desktops: Press Windows Key + Ctrl + D to create a new virtual desktop if you need more screen real estate.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does splitting the screen affect performance?
Generally, splitting the screen does not significantly impact performance. However, if you’re running heavy applications, you might notice a slight slowdown.
Can I split the screen more than two ways?
Yes, you can split the screen into four quadrants by dragging windows to the corners of the screen.
How do I turn off Snap Assist?
Go to Settings > System > Multitasking and toggle off Snap Assist options.
Can I split the screen on multiple monitors?
Yes, splitting the screen works on each monitor if you have multiple monitors set up.
What if my windows don’t snap?
Ensure that Snap Assist is enabled in Settings. If it still doesn’t work, restart your computer.
Summary
- Open the windows you want to use.
- Drag one window to the side.
- Select another window to fill the other half.
- Adjust the size of the windows.
- Use keyboard shortcuts for quick split-screen.
Conclusion
Learning how to split the screen on Windows 10 is a game-changer for productivity. With just a few simple steps, you can have multiple windows open and visible at the same time, making it easier to multitask. Whether you’re working on a project, comparing documents, or simply browsing the web while watching a video, split-screen functionality is incredibly useful.
Don’t hesitate to use the tips and tricks mentioned to enhance your experience further. From keyboard shortcuts to virtual desktops, Windows 10 offers a variety of features to optimize your workflow. 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.