Split screen on Windows 11 allows you to divide your screen into two or more sections, and is a great way to work on different apps and windows simultaneously. But how do you use split screen on Windows 11? Let’s find out.
How to split screen in Windows 11 using the mouse
As it’s usually always within grasp, one of the easiest methods to use split screen on Windows 11 is to use your mouse.
First, open the apps or files you intend to work with. Now move your pointer over the title bar of the first window and press and hold the left mouse button.
To split the screen into two sections, keep the left mouse button pressed down and drag the window to the left or right edge of the screen. A blurred split-screen preview will appear once you can’t pull it any further.
Now release the mouse button, and the window will snap into place and fill half the screen.
If you want to split the screen into four sections, drag the window into the chosen corner of the screen instead. Once the blurred preview appears, release the mouse button, and the window will fill the quarter section.
After positioning your first window, you’ll see a large thumbnail image of all the other open apps. You can now choose where to put the other windows by left-clicking on the appropriate image.
How to split screen in Windows 11 using Snap Assist
Snap Assist is a new feature currently only available in Windows 11. It gives you a quick way to divide your screen, allowing you to choose from six different split-screen options rather than only the four the other methods offer.
To use Snap Assist, move your mouse pointer over the Minimise/Maximise icon in the top right of your window. When you do, a drop-down box will appear and show you the six different layouts. Select your preferred option, and choose the window’s position within that layout. Once selected, left-click the mouse and the window will snap into place.
You can then position your other windows from the preview images that appear by left-clicking on them with the mouse.
You can also use Snap Assist while dragging windows around with the mouse. If you move your window to the top centre of the screen, you’ll see a menu bar appear with the different Snap Assist options. While still dragging, move the mouse pointer over the toolbar and to your required layout. You’ll now see your chosen option highlighted with a thumbnail image of your window near it.
Once selected, take your finger off the mouse button, and the window will appear in the desired area.
You can then position your other windows from the preview images that appear by left-clicking on them with the mouse.
How to split screen in Windows 11 using the keyboard
If you’re a fan of keyboard shortcuts, then you can also access split screen via your keyboard. All the shortcuts use the Windows and arrow keys, as listed below.
| Where the active window will appear | Key shortcut |
| Left half of the screen | Hold down the Windows key and press the left arrow |
| Right half of the screen | Hold down the Windows key and press the right arrow |
| Top left corner of the screen | Hold down the Windows key and press the left arrow, then press the up arrow |
| Bottom left corner of the screen | Hold down the Windows key and press the left arrow, then press the down arrow |
| Top right corner of the screen | Hold down the Windows key and press the right arrow, then press the up arrow |
| Bottom right corner of the screen | Hold down the Windows key and press the right arrow, then press the down arrow |
Once you’ve selected and positioned your first window, image previews of your other open apps appear. You’ll see the currently selected window will be highlighted with a border. You can now choose another window using the arrow keys. Once you’ve chosen the desired app, press the Enter key to position it.
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