How to Split Screen on Mac: A Step-by-Step Guide for Beginners

I. Introduction

Split Screen is a vital feature for multitasking on Mac. It allows you to work simultaneously on two or more applications. But, not everyone knows how to split screen on Mac. Luckily, it is easy once you know the steps.

II. Step-by-Step Guide

Enabling and using Split Screen on Mac requires a few basic steps.

A. Introduction to Split Screen on Mac

Firstly, let’s understand what split screen mode is. Split Screen on Mac allows you to view multiple applications side-by-side. This means you can access information from multiple applications, and it can improve your productivity.

B. Basic steps to enable Split Screen on Mac

To enable Split Screen, you should:

  1. Launch the two applications you want to view simultaneously
  2. Click and hold the full-screen button on one of the application windows, which looks like a rectangle with two vertical lines at either side, in the top left corner of the window. The full-screen button is usually located next to the green maximize button.
  3. Drag the application window to the left or right side of the screen until you see Split View appear
  4. Release the full-screen button and click on the second application window to view it in Split Screen mode

C. Steps to Split Screen using mouse

The following steps will teach you how to enable Split Screen using your mouse:

  1. Launch the two applications you want to view simultaneously
  2. Place your mouse pointer over the green full-screen button on the top left corner of the window. This button also appears next to the red close button. Click and hold the full-screen button.
  3. Drag the window to the right or left edge of the screen until Split View appears
  4. Release the full-screen button and select the second application you want to view

D. Steps to Split Screen using keyboard shortcuts

There are quicker ways to access the Split Screen mode using keyboard shortcuts. The steps are as follows:

  1. Launch the two applications you want to view simultaneously
  2. Click and hold the window’s title bar of the first application you want to view in Split Screen mode
  3. Press and hold the Ctrl and ⌥(option) keys while dragging the window to the left or right edge of the screen until you see Split View appear
  4. Select the second application you wish to view in Split Screen mode

E. Switching between screens

To switch between screens, you can hover your cursor over an app in Split Screen view and click on it. Alternatively, swipe right or left using a three-finger gesture on your trackpad to switch between screens.

F. Exiting from Split Screen mode

To exit Split Screen mode, click and hold the full-screen button again and select Exit Full Screen. Alternatively, press the Esc key.

III. Keyboard Shortcuts

Keyboard shortcuts can make using Split Screen mode more efficient. Here are some tips and shortcuts to help you master Split Screen mode using only your keyboard.

A. Advantages of using keyboard shortcuts

Using keyboard shortcuts saves time when using Split Screen mode. It helps users to bypass complicated mouse movements and simplifies their work process. It also avoids repetitive movements, which is an excellent way to reduce strain and prevent carpal tunnel syndrome.

B. Most common Keyboard shortcuts to Split Screen on Mac

Here are the most common keyboard shortcuts for Split Screen:

  • To access Split View, press and hold the full-screen button on the window (this key is located just above the Delete key on some Mac keyboards).
  • To switch between full screens, press Control (Ctrl) + the left or right arrow keys.

C. Tips to master Keyboard Shortcuts

You can check the list of available keyboard shortcuts by visiting the Keyboard Shortcuts section of your Mac’s System Preferences. Familiarize yourself with each shortcut by practicing regularly, that will help you master them.

IV. Using Mac Apps

Some popular Mac apps come with split screen features built-in. Here we list some of the most popular ones and how to use them.

A. Introduction to Split Screen Apps

Split Screen apps let you customize your screen, giving you more control and flexibility to organize your work.

B. Popular Split Screen Apps for Mac

Here are some popular Split Screen apps for Mac:

  • BetterSnap Tool
  • Magnet
  • Divvy
  • Spectacle
  • Jitouch

C. Set Up and use Split Screen Apps

You can install any of these apps from the Mac App Store. After installation, open it, and the app will guide you through its configuration.

D. Customize your split screen Apps

Customization is a key feature of split screen apps. Most apps provide users with options to create shortcuts, customize layouts, and personalize their workspace. Check out the tutorials to know how to customize your split screen app of choice.

V. Customization

The customization feature provides the flexibility to modify the layout displaying various windows.

A. Explanation of Customization feature

The Customization feature is one of the most robust features of Mac OS Split Screen. It allows users to customize their screen layout according to their work needs, making it easier and more enjoyable to multitask.

B. How to make Customization settings

  1. Go to System Preferences
  2. Select Mission Control in the System Preferences window
  3. You can change the settings related to the Dock, Dashboard, and Spaces on this screen of the Mission Control System Preferences

C. Saving Customized settings

To save customized settings on your Mac, press the Control (Ctrl) key while clicking the full-screen button. Doing so allows you to save the current setup as the default screen layout for all future sessions.

VI. Troubleshooting

This section describes some of the most common issues that users encounter while working in Split Screen mode and offers some suggestions for resolving them.

A. Common Issues that arise when using Split Screen on Mac

  1. Apps that don’t support Split Screen Mode
  2. Incompatible resolution settings
  3. Apps that take up too much space
  4. Unresponsive tabs

B. Troubleshooting Tips to fix issues

To fix these issues, consider:

  1. Using apps that support Split Screen Mode
  2. Adjusting your resolution settings
  3. Optimizing screen usage by using space-saving apps
  4. Force-quit tabs that refuse to respond

C. Extended support

If you are experiencing any issues while using Split Screen Mode, you may contact Apple’s customer support team, and they will guide you through the necessary troubleshooting steps.

VII. Advanced Techniques

Now that you have mastered the basics, it’s time to explore advanced techniques.

A. Overview of Advanced Split Screen techniques

Some advanced techniques you can use to enhance your Split Screen experience include:

  • Creating custom split-screen modes using utilities like Split View and Divvy.
  • Using Terminal commands to maximize advanced modes like Mission Control.

B. Customizing the Split Screen modes

You can customize the amount of screen real estate each app occupies by dragging the vertical divider that appears when you create a Split Screen setup. You can also use third-party utilities like Split View to adjust these settings and save your custom layouts for future use.

C. Using Terminal command to enable Hidden Split Screen mode

The Terminal command can activate a Hidden Split Screen mode to run multiple windows in one application. To use it, navigate to the Terminal app on your Mac and type the command “caffeinate -i -u -t 3600” and press Enter. Run the command again to disable the Split Screen mode.

VIII. Conclusion

Congratulations, you have learned how to enable and use Split Screen on Mac, along with many additional features to improve your productivity. By following our Step-by-Step guide, you now know how to use Split Screen, keyboard shortcuts, customization, and troubleshooting. Remember, practice makes perfect, so keep using your new skills, and soon you will be a Split Screen expert!

B. Final Thoughts

Split Screen on Mac is an excellent feature designed to improve your productivity and make multitasking more efficient. By following our simple step-by-step guide, you can use this great feature to its maximum potential.

C. Call-to-Action for Readers

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Webben Editor

Hello! I'm Webben, your guide to intriguing insights about our diverse world. I strive to share knowledge, ignite curiosity, and promote understanding across various fields. Join me on this enlightening journey as we explore and grow together.

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