Windows 10 includes a useful split screen feature that allows you to view and interact with two apps side-by-side on the same screen. This can be handy for multitasking and comparing content between apps.
What is Split Screen?
Split screen allows you to divide your screen into two resizable windows. You can then open an app in each window to view and interact with both apps simultaneously.
For example, you could have Microsoft Word in one window to take notes, while viewing a PowerPoint presentation in the other window. Or you could browse the web in one window while composing an email in the other.
The two windows can be resized by dragging the divider between them, allowing you to customize the screen space for each app.
How to Use Split Screen
Using split screen in Windows 10 is easy. Here are the steps:
1. Open the First App
First, open the first app you want in split screen mode. This can be any app – a web browser, document editor, etc.
2. Open the Second App
Now open the second app you want to view simultaneously. This will trigger split screen mode automatically.
The second app will open side-by-side with the first app.
3. Resize the Windows
By default, the two app windows will be split 50/50 on the screen.
You can resize the windows by clicking and dragging the divider line between them. Drag left or right to make one window larger and the other smaller.
4. Switch Between Apps
To switch between apps, just click on the other window.
The inactive window will be minimized, while the active window takes up more screen space.
5. Exit Split Screen
To exit split screen, drag the divider all the way to the left or right edge of the screen. This will maximize the remaining app to full screen.
Or open the Action Center and turn off “Snap windows” to disable split screen.
Tips for Using Split Screen Effectively
-
Open your most used apps – Split screen works best with your most commonly used apps and multitasking workflows.
-
Use keyboard shortcuts – Press Windows key + left or right arrow keys to quickly snap apps to each side.
-
Adjust the divider – Make sure to resize the windows so content is readable and accessible in each app.
-
Try various layouts – You can snap apps to corners and sides for layouts beyond a simple 50/50 split.
-
Use multiple desktops – Open different app combinations in split screen on separate virtual desktops.
Wrap Up
Split screen is a handy feature in Windows 10 for multitasking with two apps side-by-side. It’s great for referencing content between apps or keeping an eye on multiple tasks simultaneously. Adjust the divider and swap apps fluidly to get the most out of your screen real estate.
