How to Use Split Screen on a Mac: A Step-by-Step Guide

Introduction:

Split Screen is a useful feature on a Mac that allows you to work with two apps side by side, making multitasking and productivity more efficient. This step-by-step guide will show you how to use Split Screen on your Mac.

Step 1: Ensure Compatibility

Before using Split Screen, make sure your Mac is running macOS El Capitan (10.11) or a newer version.

Step 2: Open the Apps You Want to Use in Split Screen

Open the applications you want to use in Split Screen. You’ll need at least two apps running.

Step 3: Activate Split Screen

There are several ways to activate Split Screen on your Mac:

Option 1: Using Full-Screen Mode

1. Click on the green “Full-Screen” button in the upper-left corner of one of the apps you want to use in Split Screen. This button looks like two diagonal arrows pointing outward.
2. The app will enter full-screen mode.

Option 2: Using Mission Control

1. Click the “Mission Control” button on the Mac’s dock or press “Control” + “Up Arrow” on your keyboard.
2. Drag one of the app windows to the top of the screen and hold it there. A new desktop space will appear, and the window will enlarge to fill the left or right half of the screen.
3. Release the app window to enter the Split Screen.

Option 3: Using Window Menu

1. Click and hold the green “Full-Screen” button in the upper-left corner of the app window.
2. A menu will appear, offering options to move the app to the left or right side of the screen. Click one of these options to activate Split Screen.

Step 4: Adjust the Split Screen Layout

Once you’ve activated Split Screen, you can adjust the layout:

• Drag the divider between the two app windows left or right to resize them according to your preference.
• Click on one of the app windows to make it active, and you can work in it as usual.

Step 5: Exit Split Screen

Exiting Split Screen is simple:

1. Move your cursor to the top of the screen, and the menu bar will appear.
2. Click the green “Full-Screen” button in the upper-left corner of the active app window. This will return the app to normal view.

Step 6: Return to Standard View

If you have multiple Split Screen pairs open, you can use Mission Control (Step 3, Option 2) to see all the desktops and Split Screen pairs. Click on the one you want to switch to.

Step 7: Save Your Work

Don’t forget to save your work in both apps, especially if you’re making changes, before exiting Split Screen.

Conclusion:

Using Split Screen on a Mac is a convenient way to enhance your productivity by allowing you to work with two apps side by side. With a few simple steps, you can create, adjust, and exit Split Screen, making multitasking more efficient and effective on your Mac.