Juggling multiple windows on a Mac can get overwhelming, but you don’t have to keep switching between tabs. The split-screen feature lets you view two apps side by side. If you're comparing documents, taking notes during a video call, or just keeping an eye on emails, this feature can save time and effort.
But here’s what most people don’t realize—a split screen isn’t just about snapping two windows together. It comes with handy tricks that can make your workflow much better. From resizing windows effortlessly to switching between apps without breaking concentration, there’s a lot you can do once you get the hang of it.
Mac’s split-screen mode may not be as obvious as on other devices, but once you learn the right way to use it, you’ll wonder how you ever worked without it. Let’s explore how to split the screen on a Mac step by step.
Activating Split Screen Mode
Multitasking on a Mac gets easier when you know how to use a split screen. It saves you from juggling between windows and helps you work without distractions. But many people don’t use it to its full potential. Here’s how to activate it properly and make the most of it.
So, how to split the screen on a Mac?
1. Use the Green Button on Any Window
-
Look at the top-left corner of your window, and you’ll see three buttons: red, yellow, and green.
-
Hover over the green one (don’t click yet).
-
A small menu will appear with options—choose “Tile Window to Left of Screen” or “Tile Window to Right of Screen.”
-
Select another open app to fill the other half of your screen.
2. Adjust the Split View
-
Move the divider between the two windows to adjust their sizes.
-
Drag it left or right based on which app you want to give more space.
-
If one app takes up too much space, you can reset it by exiting the split screen and redoing the process.
3. Shortcut for Faster Activation
-
If the green button menu doesn’t appear, press Control + Command + F to enter full screen.
-
Then, use Mission Control (F3 or swipe up with three fingers) to drag another app into the same full-screen space.
4. Apps That Don’t Support Split Screen
-
Some apps don’t allow tiling. If an app refuses to enter split-screen mode, it likely doesn’t support it.
-
A quick fix is to resize the window manually and place it next to another app.
5. Using Mission Control for More Control
-
Swipe up with three fingers or press F3 to open Mission Control.
-
Drag any open window to the left or right side of the screen to split them.
Switching Between Apps in Split Screen
Working with two apps side by side is convenient, but switching between them can sometimes feel tricky. A simple swipe or keyboard shortcut can make the process quicker and more efficient. Here’s how to move between apps without any frustration and keep your workflow uninterrupted.
1. Click Directly on the App You Want to Use
Just move your cursor and click anywhere inside the app window. This instantly makes it active while keeping both apps open.
2. Use the Keyboard Shortcut (Command + Tab)
Hold Command and tap Tab to cycle through open apps. Now, release both keys when you reach the app you want. This is easier when you need to switch between split-screen and other open apps.
3. Swipe with Four Fingers on the Trackpad
Place four fingers on the trackpad and swipe left or right. This lets you move between full-screen apps and your desktop. If you don’t see other apps, open Mission Control (F3 or three-finger swipe up) to check.
4. Use Mission Control for Quick Navigation
Press F3 or swipe up with three fingers to open Mission Control. Click on the app space where your split-screen apps are running. This method is useful when you have multiple desktops or full-screen apps open.
5. Adjust Window Sizes for Better Access
If one app is too small, move the divider to resize it. Giving equal space to both apps makes switching feel more natural.
6. Exiting Split Screen for Easier Switching
Move your cursor to the top of the screen until the menu bar appears. Click the green button to exit split-screen mode. Your apps will stay open in separate windows, allowing easy switching with Command + Tab.
Exiting Split Screen Without Losing Your Work
Closing split-screen mode doesn’t mean you have to restart everything. You can exit without disrupting your open documents, browser tabs, or ongoing tasks. Whether you need to switch to another app or just prefer a single-window view, here’s how to exit without any unnecessary steps.
1. Use the Green Button on the Top Left
Move your cursor to the top of the screen until the menu bar appears. Click the green full-screen button on either of the split apps. This brings the app back to a normal window while keeping the other app open.
2. Exit Using Mission Control
Press F3 or swipe up with three fingers to open Mission Control. Drag one of the split-screen apps back to the desktop area. Both apps will remain open in separate windows.
3. Use the Escape Key (Works in Some Apps)
Press Escape if you’re in full-screen mode for apps like Safari or Notes. If this doesn’t work, try clicking the green button instead.
4. Switch to Another Desktop Space
Swipe left or right with four fingers on the trackpad to move between desktops. If you need one of the split apps in a different space, just drag it in Mission Control.
5. Close One App Without Quitting the Other
If you only want to close one app, click the red close button in the top left corner. The remaining app will switch to full-screen mode. You can then minimize it or adjust it as needed.
Troubleshooting Split Screen Issues
Split screen should make multitasking easier, but sometimes things don’t go as planned. Maybe one app refuses to resize, or the shortcut won’t work. Before you assume your Mac is acting up, let’s go through common issues and quick fixes to get snap mac working again.
1. Split Screen Option Missing
-
Check if both apps support full-screen mode. Not all apps are compatible with snap windows to the side mac.
-
Try enabling "Displays have separate Spaces" under System Settings → Mission Control.
2. Dragging Windows Doesn’t Work
-
Hold the green full-screen button until the layout options appear.
-
Restart the app if it doesn’t respond.
3. Shortcut Not Responding
-
Use “Control + Command + F” to toggle full-screen before attempting macbook snap again.
-
Update macOS if shortcuts don’t function as expected.
Still stuck? A simple restart fixes most glitches.
Bonus Tricks for Better Multitasking
Juggling multiple tasks? Instead of constantly switching between apps, make your screen work smarter. Mac has some underrated tricks that can save time and reduce distractions. Whether you’re using a single display or connecting mac to monitor, these shortcuts and features will change how you multitask.
So, let's see the smart ways to organize your workspace.
1. Use Window Snapping for Instant Layouts
-
In macos 15 window snapping, drag an app to the edge until it locks into place.
-
Pair two apps using snap windows side by side mac for quick comparisons.
2. Master Keyboard Shortcuts
-
Control + Option + Arrow to shift windows instantly.
-
Command + Tab for rapid app switching.
3. Maximize Your Screen with External Monitors
-
Extend your workspace by connecting mac to monitor and snapping apps to each screen.
-
Assign specific tasks to different displays for a distraction-free workflow.
Want to go even faster? Try mac snap to half screen for quick app placement without dragging.
Final Thoughts
Figuring out how to split the screen on a Mac can save a lot of time, especially when juggling tasks. No more flipping between tabs or digging through windows—everything stays right where you want it. With just a few clicks, you can set up a workspace that actually makes sense.
- But there’s more to it than just splitting windows. Want extra room for projects, editing, or research? The best 2nd monitor for iMac can take things up a notch. A larger display means less squinting, more space, and better control over your work. Once you try it, you'll wonder why you didn’t make the switch sooner.
Working with a split screen is great, but why stop at two windows when you can have an entire workspace on the go? If you need a touchscreen for quick interactions or a lightweight second display for better productivity, ReHisk has plenty of options. Plug it in, snap your windows into place.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Q: How do I exit the split screen on Mac?
A: Move your cursor to the top until the menu bar appears, then click the green button in either window. Or press Esc if one of the apps is in full screen. This instantly brings everything back to normal.
Q: Why can’t I use split screen on my Mac?
A: Not all apps support it, especially older or third-party ones. Also, if Mission Control settings block multiple desktops, that could be the culprit. Check System Settings > Desktop & Dock to make sure "Displays have separate Spaces" is turned on.
Q: Can I split screen more than two windows on Mac?
A: Mac’s default setup only allows two, but there’s a workaround. Use Mission Control to arrange more windows side by side manually. Or try third-party apps like Magnet for full control over multiple windows.
Q: What is the Mac split screen shortcut?
A: There’s no single shortcut, but Control + Up Arrow opens Mission Control, letting you drag windows into Split View. You can also press F3 (or swipe up with three fingers on the trackpad) to organize everything quickly.
Q: Does macOS Ventura or Sonoma have new split screen features?
A: macOS Sonoma keeps Split View the same but adds a useful tweak—interactive widgets. You can now keep widgets on the desktop while using Split View, so quick tasks don’t interrupt your workflow.
