How to Split Screen on Laptop For Better Efficiency

In today’s fast-paced digital landscape, multitasking has become an essential skill for Singaporeans, whether you’re a university student at NUS juggling research papers, a professional in the CBD comparing data across multiple documents, or simply someone who likes to keep an eye on your favourite local food blogs while working. The ability to view multiple windows simultaneously can significantly enhance your productivity, and this is where the split-screen feature comes in handy.

Using multiple screens, especially in dual monitor setups, can further boost productivity by allowing different applications or documents to be displayed simultaneously, optimising your workflow. This is particularly useful for professionals in Singapore’s thriving finance and tech sectors, where data analysis and multitasking are crucial.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the process of splitting your screen on various devices and operating systems, including Windows, macOS, and Android. We’ll cover everything from basic setup to advanced techniques, keyboard shortcuts, and even recommend some HP laptops that are perfect for multitasking. Let’s dive in and unlock the full potential of your workspace!

What is Split Screen and Why Use It?

Split screen is a feature that allows you to divide your device’s display into multiple sections, each showing a different application or window. This functionality enables you to work on multiple tasks simultaneously without the need to constantly switch between windows.

Here are some key benefits of using split screen:

1. Enhanced Productivity: Work on two or more tasks side by side, saving time and increasing efficiency. Viewing multiple windows on the same screen enhances productivity and improves workspace organisation.
2. Improved Focus: Reduce distractions by having all necessary information visible at once.
3. Better Comparison: Easily compare documents, images, or data across different windows – perfect for analysing market trends or comparing property listings in Singapore’s competitive real estate market.
4. Streamlined Workflow: Drag and drop content between applications with ease, making it simple to compile reports or presentations.

Now that we understand the advantages, let’s explore how to set up split screen on various devices.

How to Split Screen on Windows 10 and 11

Microsoft Windows provides robust functionality and benefits for managing dual monitor setups, enhancing productivity with features like display settings adjustments and keyboard shortcuts for navigating multiple screens.

Windows offers a feature called “Snap Assist” (in Windows 10) and “Snap Layouts” (in Windows 11) that makes splitting your screen a breeze.

Windows 10: Snap Assist

1. Drag and Snap:

• Click and hold the title bar of a window.
• Drag it to the left or right side of the screen until you see an outline.
• Release to snap the window to that half of the screen.
• Repeat with another window on the opposite side.

• Select a window and press Windows key + Left Arrow to snap it left.
• Select another window and press Windows key + Right Arrow to snap it right.
• Use the arrow key to navigate between snapped windows.

• Click the maximise button at the top right of any open window.
• Choose one of the quadrant options to snap the window to that section.

Windows 11: Snap Layouts

1. Snap Layouts Menu:

• Hover your mouse over the maximise button of any window to use the snap windows feature.
• Choose a layout from the pop-up menu.
• Select other open windows to fill the remaining spaces.

• Press Windows key + Z to open the Snap Layouts menu, a useful keyboard shortcut windows feature.
• Use arrow keys to select a layout, then press Enter.

How to Split Screen on Mac

macOS offers a feature called Split View for easy multitasking:

1. Enter Split View:

• Click and hold the green full-screen button in the top-left corner of a window.
• Choose “Tile Window to Left of Screen” or “Tile Window to Right of Screen.”
• Click another window to fill the other half of the screen.

• Hover your cursor over the black divider bar.
• Click and drag to adjust the width of each app.

• Move your cursor to the top of the screen to reveal the menu bar.
• Click the green full-screen button of either window.

How to Split Screen on Android Devices

Many Android devices support split-screen functionality, though the exact method may vary slightly between manufacturers:

1. Open Recent Apps:

• Swipe up from the bottom of the screen and hold (or tap the Recent Apps button).

• Tap the app icon at the top of the app preview.
• Select “Split screen” from the menu.

• Select another app from your Recent Apps or Home screen to fill the other half.

• Drag the divider bar to resize the windows.

Best HP Laptops for Split Screen Multitasking

To make the most of split-screen functionality, it is crucial to have an updated operating system for seamless connectivity and usability. You’ll want a laptop with a spacious display and powerful performance. Here are some top HP options available in Singapore:

HP ENVY x360 2-in-1 Laptop 14-fc0082TU

• 14" diagonal WUXGA touch display
• Intel® Core™ Ultra 5 125U processor
• 16 GB memory; 512 GB SSD storage
• Windows 11 Home

Its versatile 2-in-1 design and touch display provide flexibility for various working styles, while the powerful processor ensures smooth performance even with demanding applications.

HP Pavilion 16 inch Laptop 16-af0003TX

For those who prefer a larger screen for enhanced productivity, the HP Pavilion 16 is an excellent choice:

• 16" diagonal WUXGA touch display
• Intel® Core™ Ultra 7 155U processor
• 32 GB memory; 1 TB SSD storage
• NVIDIA® GeForce® MX570 A (4 GB GDDR6 dedicated)

The expansive 16-inch display provides plenty of room for split-screen work, while the dedicated graphics card ensures smooth visuals for any task, making it ideal for professionals in Singapore’s design and creative industries.

Tips for Effective Split Screen Usage

1. Use a larger or higher resolution display: More screen real estate makes split-screen work more comfortable, especially when dealing with complex spreadsheets or multiple coding windows.
2. Learn keyboard shortcuts: They can significantly speed up your workflow, which is crucial in Singapore’s fast-paced work environment.
3. Experiment with different layouts: Find the arrangement that works best for your specific tasks, whether you’re analysing financial data or creating marketing content.
4. Consider using a second monitor: For even more multitasking power, connect an external display to your laptop. This is particularly useful for traders or analysts in Singapore’s financial district.
5. Utilise the mouse pointer: Rearrange and manipulate windows across multiple displays by selecting and dragging them to organise your workspace effectively.
6. Benefit from a second window: Enhance productivity by using the split screen feature to snap a first window to one side and open a second window, streamlining your workflow and boosting efficiency.

Conclusion

Mastering the split-screen feature on your devices can significantly boost your productivity and streamline your workflow, whether you’re working from home in Tampines or in an office in Marina Bay. Whether you’re using a Windows PC, a Mac, or an Android device, the ability to view and work with multiple windows simultaneously is at your fingertips.

Remember, the key to effective multitasking is not just about having the right tools, but also about using them efficiently. Take some time to practice these techniques and find the setup that works best for you. And if you’re in the market for a new laptop that can handle your multitasking needs with ease, consider the powerful and versatile options from HP’s lineup available in Singapore.

For more productivity tips and the latest in tech, visit our HP Tech Takes page. And to explore our full range of laptops perfect for multitasking, check out our HP laptops collection.