How to Split Screen on Mac: A Comprehensive Guide with Tips and Tricks

I. Introduction

In today’s fast-paced world, productivity and multitasking have become essential skills. Mac operating systems provide built-in apps and features that can help users work faster and more efficiently. One such feature is split-screen mode that lets users see two different apps or windows at the same time. This article will guide you on how to split screen on a Mac, with tips and tricks to make the process easier.

II. Step-by-Step Guide

Split-screen mode on a Mac allows users to split their screen into two equal halves, showing two different apps or windows at the same time. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to do it:

1. Open the two apps or windows you want to see simultaneously.
2. Click and hold on the green “full-screen” button on the top left of one of the windows.
3. Drag the window to the left or right side of the screen until a blue panel appears.
4. Release the mouse button, and the window will be snapped to one side, occupying half of the screen.
5. Do the same for the other window, but snap it to the other side of the screen.

Alternatively, users can use keyboard shortcuts to split their screen:

1. Open the two apps or windows you want to see simultaneously.
2. Click and hold the fullscreen button on the top left of one of the windows.
3. Press and hold the “Option” key on your keyboard while clicking another app or window.
4. The screen will be split between the two apps or windows automatically.

Users can also adjust the size of each window by dragging the middle bar separating them. This feature only works on macOS 10.11 or later versions.

III. Video Tutorial

For a more interactive way of learning how to split the screen on a Mac, check out this video tutorial that covers the same steps:

The video tutorial covers the same steps as the text guide above and also includes tips on adjusting window size and how to exit split-screen mode.

IV. Best Practices

Split-screen mode on a Mac can significantly improve users’ productivity and multitasking abilities. Here are some tips and best practices for setting up and using split-screen mode effectively:

• Choose two apps or windows that are related or complement each other.
• Adjust the size of each window to your preference, depending on the task at hand.
• Use the split-screen mode to compare or copy and paste information between the two windows.
• Use split-screen mode for collaborative work with a colleague or during an online meeting, displaying shared information and your work at the same time.
• Use split-screen mode to research and take notes at the same time, or to work on multiple documents at once.

V. Troubleshooting

While using split-screen mode on a Mac, users may face some issues or challenges. Here are some common problems and solutions:

• Split-screen mode not working: Make sure that your Mac is running on macOS 10.11 or a later version.
• Unable to resize windows: Drag the middle bar separating the two windows to adjust their size.
• Exiting split-screen mode: To exit split-screen mode, click and hold the green full-screen button again, or use the keyboard shortcut “Control+Command+F.”
• Only a portion of the window shows: Make sure that the other window is not open and covering the rest of the screen.

Users can also adjust the settings related to split-screen mode by navigating to System Preferences > Mission Control. From there, users can customize their settings for split-screen mode, including enabling or disabling it.

VI. Comparing with other OS

Split-screen mode is a feature commonly found on different operating systems from Windows to Chrome OS. However, Macs have a unique technique for splitting the screen:

• Windows: To split the screen in Windows, users can drag the window to the left or right side of the screen, and a panel appears. Then, the user can select another window to occupy the other half of the screen.
• Chrome OS: Chrome OS provides a similar technique to Macs, where users can drag the window to the left or right side of the screen for split-screen mode.

While different operating systems provide comparable features, Macs have unique and convenient techniques for users to split the screen in half. There are pros and cons to using split-screen mode on a Mac versus other operating systems, including the adaptability and customizable tricks and best practices.

VII. Conclusion

In conclusion, split-screen mode on a Mac is a valuable feature for users looking to improve their productivity, multitasking, and work efficiency. This comprehensive guide provides step-by-step instructions, tips and tricks, troubleshooting solutions, and comparison with other operating systems. Try out different methods described in this article to make the most of split-screen mode on a Mac.

Continue to explore and test out different apps and windows to create a customized work environment that fits your personal needs.