Splitting your screen in Windows 10 using the keyboard is a game-changer for productivity. Essentially, it allows you to view and interact with multiple windows simultaneously without having to juggle between them. Here’s a quick overview: to split your screen, you use a combination of the Windows key and arrow keys on your keyboard to snap windows to different parts of your screen.
How to Split Screen Windows 10 Using Keyboard
Splitting your screen can make multitasking easier and more efficient. Follow these simple steps to get the most out of your screen real estate.
Step 1: Open the Windows You Want to Use
First, ensure that the windows you want to split are open.
Having the necessary windows open is crucial because you’ll be snapping them into place in the next steps.
Step 2: Select the First Window
Click on the window you want to snap first.
Selecting the window makes it the active window, ready for you to snap it to one side of the screen.
Step 3: Snap the Window to One Side
Press and hold the Windows key, then press the left or right arrow key.
This action will move the active window to the corresponding side of your screen, taking up exactly half of the screen space.
Step 4: Choose the Second Window
Windows will now display the remaining open windows on the opposite side of the screen. Click on the window you want to snap next.
Selecting the subsequent window lets you choose which one to place in the remaining half of the screen.
Step 5: Snap the Second Window
Press and hold the Windows key, then press the opposite arrow key (right if you used left before, left if you used right before).
This will move the second window to the other half of the screen, perfectly splitting your workspace.
After completing these steps, you’ll have two windows side by side, each taking up 50% of your screen. You can now drag the divider between the two windows to resize them as needed.
Tips for Splitting Screen Windows 10 Using Keyboard
- Utilize Corners: Press Windows key + Up or Down arrows after snapping to place windows in quarters.
- Use Virtual Desktops: Press Windows key + Tab to create and manage virtual desktops for even more multitasking.
- Keyboard Shortcuts: Familiarize yourself with other shortcuts like Windows key + D to show the desktop.
- Adjusting Split Ratios: Click and drag the divider to adjust how much of each window is displayed.
- Task View: Use Windows key + Tab to quickly switch between open tasks.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I split more than two windows?
Yes, you can split your screen into four quarters by snapping windows to the corners using Windows key + Up or Down arrows after initially snapping them to the sides.
What if my Windows key isn’t working?
Ensure that your keyboard is functioning correctly and that the Windows key isn’t disabled by any software or system setting.
Can I adjust the size of each window after snapping?
Yes, you can click and drag the divider between the two windows to resize them to your preference.
Will this work on multiple monitors?
Yes, you can use these keyboard shortcuts on any monitor connected to your computer.
Does this work in all versions of Windows?
These steps are specifically for Windows 10. While similar functionality exists in older versions, the steps may differ slightly.
Summary
- Open the windows you want to use.
- Select the first window.
- Snap the first window to one side.
- Choose the second window.
- Snap the second window to the other side.
Conclusion
Mastering how to split screen Windows 10 using keyboard shortcuts is a simple yet powerful way to enhance productivity. Whether you’re writing a report while referencing data or watching a tutorial while following along in another window, this feature streamlines multitasking. For further reading, consider exploring other Windows 10 shortcuts and features to optimize your workflow even more. By integrating these tips and practices into your daily routine, you’ll find that managing multiple tasks becomes a breeze, empowering you to get more done in less time. 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.