How To Split Screen on Mac (FAST & EASY) - Macbook Tips
Learn how to split screen on a Mac to boost your productivity. Discover two fast and easy methods to arrange windows side by side and optimize your workflow.
Learn how to split screen on a Mac, so you can be more productive! By the end you'll learn two methods to split your screen. Arrange your windows side by side to make it easier to work on your Macbook!
Watch this next:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AQqTrnycumo
Chapters:
0:00 Intro
0:25 Option 1: Full Split Screen
1:22 Subscribe
1:32 Option 2: Fill & Arrange Split Screen
3:04 Outro
- Choose between two built-in macOS multitasking methods: Full Split Screen and Fill & Arrange.
- Activate either method by clicking and holding the green circle button in the upper-left corner of any window.
- Use the Full Split Screen method to create a dedicated, distraction-free workspace, though it isolates you from Finder and unsupported apps.
- Opt for the Fill & Arrange method (recommended) to keep windows on your desktop, allowing easy drag-and-drop and compatibility with apps like Adobe Photoshop.
- Resize both windows simultaneously in either mode by dragging the grabber tool in the middle of the screen.
- Boost your productivity further by learning how to make the best use of your Mac menu bar.
Working with multiple windows on a Mac doesn't have to mean constantly switching back and forth between applications. Whether you are referencing notes while writing or dragging files into a project, arranging your windows side by side is a guaranteed way to boost your productivity.
Fortunately, macOS has split-screen solutions already built in. There are two primary methods to split your screen on a Mac, and one offers distinct advantages over the other. Read on to learn how to master both techniques.
Option 1: The Full Split Screen Method
The first way to organize your workspace is by using the traditional full-screen split method. This built-in feature creates a dedicated, distraction-free workspace for two specific apps.
How to Use Full Split Screen
FAQ
Quick answers to the questions people usually ask about this topic.
Why does macOS say "Not available in this split view" when using Adobe Photoshop?
Why does macOS say "Not available in this split view" when using Adobe Photoshop?
The traditional Full Split Screen method does not support certain applications, including Adobe Photoshop. To work around this limitation, use the Fill & Arrange split screen method instead, which works seamlessly with apps that typically resist full-screen split views.
How do I drag and drop files from Finder while using split screen?
How do I drag and drop files from Finder while using split screen?
For the best drag-and-drop experience, use the Fill & Arrange method rather than the full-screen split. This keeps your apps on the standard desktop, allowing you to open floating Finder windows over your workspace and easily drag files directly into your active project.
Can I change the size of my side-by-side windows once they are split?
Can I change the size of my side-by-side windows once they are split?
Yes! Both split screen methods allow you to adjust the window proportions. Just hover your pointer near the middle of the screen to reveal the split bar or grabber tool, then drag it left or right to resize both applications simultaneously.
How do I exit split screen mode on a Mac?
How do I exit split screen mode on a Mac?
If you are using the full-screen split method, click the green circle button in the upper-left corner of one app to exit. Note: You will then need to open the second app individually and click its green button to exit full screen as well. If you used the Fill & Arrange method, you can simply move or close the windows normally on your standard desktop.
What are some other ways to optimize my Mac workflow?
What are some other ways to optimize my Mac workflow?
Once you have mastered arranging your windows side by side, optimizing your menu bar is a great next step to boost productivity. For a comprehensive guide, check out this tutorial: How to make the best use of your Mac menu bar.
