Splitting windows on Windows 11 is a breeze and can make multitasking a lot easier. By using the built-in Snap Assist feature, you can divide your screen to view and work on multiple applications simultaneously. In just a few steps, you can snap windows to different parts of your screen and improve your productivity.
How to Split Windows on Windows 11
Splitting windows on Windows 11 allows you to view and work on multiple applications at once. Follow these steps to get started.
Step 1: Open the Applications You Want to Use
Make sure all the apps or windows you want to use are open and visible on your desktop.
Having your applications open makes it easier to arrange them as you start splitting your windows. You can open these by clicking their icons on the taskbar or using the Start menu to search for them.
Step 2: Select the First Window
Click on the title bar of the first window you want to snap.
Selecting the window you want to snap first is crucial because this is the window that will be anchored to the position you choose.
Step 3: Drag the Window to the Edge of the Screen
Click and hold the title bar and drag it to the left or right edge of the screen.
As you drag, you’ll see a translucent outline indicating where the window will snap. Release the mouse button to snap the window into place.
Step 4: Choose Another Open Window for the Other Side
After snapping the first window, Snap Assist will show thumbnails of your other open windows. Click one to snap it to the other side.
This step is straightforward. Snap Assist makes it easy by displaying all your open windows and letting you choose which one to snap next.
Step 5: Adjust the Size of the Split Windows
To adjust the size, click and drag the dividing line between the snapped windows.
Drag the divider left or right to resize the windows to your preference, giving more space to the window you need to focus on.
After completing these steps, your screen will be divided into two parts, each showing a different application. You can now work more efficiently by viewing multiple windows simultaneously.
Tips for Splitting Windows on Windows 11
- Use Keyboard Shortcuts: Press the Windows key + left or right arrow to quickly snap a window to one side.
- Snap to Corners: Drag windows to the corners of your screen to split your screen into four sections instead of just two.
- Use Snap Layouts: Hover over a window’s maximize button to see different snap layout options.
- Remember the Task View: Use Task View (Windows key + Tab) to see all your open windows and switch between them easily.
- Experiment with Different Layouts: Try different window arrangements to find the one that works best for your workflow.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I snap more than two windows?
Yes, you can snap up to four windows by dragging them to the corners of your screen.
What if Snap Assist doesn’t work?
Make sure the Snap Assist feature is enabled in Settings > System > Multitasking.
Can I customize snap layouts?
You can’t fully customize layouts, but you can choose different preset layouts by hovering over the maximize button.
Is there a way to disable Snap Assist?
Yes, you can disable Snap Assist from the Settings menu under System > Multitasking.
Will this work on multiple monitors?
Yes, you can use Snap Assist on each monitor individually if you have multiple monitors connected.
Summary
- Open the applications you want to use.
- Select the first window.
- Drag the window to the edge of the screen.
- Choose another open window for the other side.
- Adjust the size of the split windows.
Conclusion
Splitting windows on Windows 11 is a game-changer for multitasking. With a few simple steps, you can easily arrange multiple applications on your screen to enhance your productivity. Whether you’re writing a report while referencing a web page, or chatting with a friend while watching a video, this feature makes it all easier.
The Snap Assist feature is very intuitive and user-friendly, making it a handy tool for everyone from students to professionals. If you haven’t tried it yet, give it a go and see how it can transform your workflow. For more tips and tricks on Windows 11, keep exploring – there’s always something new to learn!
Matt Jacobs has been working as an IT consultant for small businesses since receiving his Master’s degree in 2003. While he still does some consulting work, his primary focus now is on creating technology support content for SupportYourTech.com.
His work can be found on many websites and focuses on topics such as Microsoft Office, Apple devices, Android devices, Photoshop, and more.