In the age of digital multitasking, having the ability to split our computer screen is essential. This skill becomes even more crucial when we handle different operating systems. Whether you're balancing work responsibilities on Windows, browsing the web on macOS, or exploring code on a Linux distribution, splitting your screen can increase your productivity and organization. In this article, we will teach you how to master this functionality in the most popular operating systems.
Split Screen in Windows 10 and Windows 11
Windows, known for its ease of use, provides several ways to manage windows on the screen.
Step 1: Snap Assist
Snap Assist functionality is activated by dragging a window to the edge of the screen. You will see a section of your screen highlighted indicating half or a quarter, depending on where you drag the window.
Step 2: Keyboard Shortcuts
Shortcuts can also be of great help. Windows + Left Arrow o Windows + Right Arrow will position the active window on the left or right half of the screen, respectively. If you continue pressing the arrow keys, you can move it to quarters of the screen.
Step 3: Horizontal and Vertical Adjustment
If we want to divide our screen not only vertically but also horizontally, we can drag other windows to the corners so that they take up a quarter of the screen. Windows will take care of the rest.
Screen Split in macOS
On macOS, the process is just as simple but with its peculiarities.
Step 1: Activate Split View
To activate Split View mode, you must press and hold the full screen button of any window and select "Move to left/right screen space."
Step 2: Work in Split View Mode
Once you do this, the operating system will place that window on one half of the screen and you can select another window to occupy the other half.
Step 3: Window Adjustment and Changes
You can adjust the size of the partitions by dragging the center divider bar. To exit Split View, move the mouse pointer to the top of the screen and click the full screen button in one of the windows.
Split Screen in Linux (Ubuntu and Fedora)
Linux offers different desktop environments with their own tools to split the screen, but let's see how to do it in GNOME, common in Ubuntu and Fedora.
Step 1: Using Keyboard Shortcuts
Just like in Windows, you can use keyboard shortcuts. Super + Left Arrow o Super + Right Arrow will place the windows on the corresponding half of the screen.
Step 2: Tiling Windows and Overlays
For advanced users, there are extensions like "gTile" or "Pop Shell" that allow more refined window handling, including tiling, which is not available by default.
Step 3: Customize the Work Environment
In settings, you can further customize your work environment by adjusting window behaviors and assigning more keyboard shortcuts.
Tips for an Effective Screen Partition
Now that you know how, applying some tips will help you make the most of this feature.
- Organize your tasks by context: Group related apps in the same area to reduce visual and mental clutter.
- Use third-party tools: Programs like AquaSnap for Windows or Magnet for macOS increase window management capabilities.
- Set up multiple virtual desktops: Using virtual desktops in combination with screen splitting provides even more control over task organization.
Solving Common Problems
Sometimes you might face issues while splitting the screen. Here are some common solutions:
- If an app doesn't reorganize correctly, check to make sure it's not in compatibility mode or doesn't require updating.
- Specific windows, such as systems administration windows, may not adhere to split screen functionality. Use these programs individually.
- Make sure that the shortcuts are not being used by other applications, which may prevent them from working properly.
In conclusion, splitting your screen can be a radical change in the way you interact with your computer. Practice the steps and tips provided for each operating system and you will see your efficiency and ability to handle multiple tasks grow exponentially. For any questions or queries, do not hesitate to visit my page NelkoDev and if you require personalized assistance, you can contact me through this link. Divide and conquer in the world of digital multitasking.
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