Split screen functionality is one of the most useful features in Windows, especially for multitasking. Whether you are working on a document while watching a video, comparing spreadsheets side by side or dragging files between folders, splitting your screen can make your tasks more efficient. Fortunately, it is simple to set up and can be customised in a few different ways.
This article explains how to split screen on a Windows PC using built-in tools, keyboard shortcuts and layout settings, so you can work more effectively with multiple windows open at the same time.
What Is Split Screen and Why Use It
Split screen allows you to view two or more application windows on the same display. Instead of switching between tabs or dragging and resizing windows manually, Windows lets you snap them into specific positions that fit neatly side by side.
This is ideal for students writing essays while researching online, office workers comparing files or even casual users who want to chat while browsing. It saves time, boosts productivity and makes it easier to stay focused.
Using Snap Assist in Windows
Snap Assist is a feature in Windows 10 and Windows 11 that makes it easy to split your screen. To use it, click and hold the title bar of a window then drag it to the left or right edge of your screen. You will see a translucent outline showing where the window will snap. Release the mouse and the window will fill that half of the screen.
Once one window is in place, Snap Assist will show thumbnails of your other open windows on the opposite side. Click on one to fill the second half of the screen. You can now work with both windows side by side.
Keyboard Shortcuts for Split Screen
Windows also offers shortcuts to split your screen quickly using your keyboard. Select the window you want to move then press the Windows key + Left Arrow or Windows key + Right Arrow. This will snap the window to the chosen side of the screen.
To place a window in a corner, press Windows key + Up Arrow or Windows key + Down Arrow after snapping it left or right. This will quarter the window, allowing up to four apps to be arranged on one display.
These shortcuts work well for users who prefer to keep their hands on the keyboard and want to organise their workspace quickly.
Using FancyZones for Advanced Layouts
For more complex layouts, Windows PowerToys includes a tool called FancyZones. It lets you create custom window arrangements that go beyond the standard halves and quarters.
After downloading PowerToys from the Microsoft Store, open the FancyZones settings to design your own grid layout. Once set up, you can hold Shift while dragging windows into your defined zones. This is helpful if you use a large monitor or ultrawide screen and want more control over how apps are arranged.
How to Turn On or Adjust Snap Settings
If snap features are not working, you may need to check your settings. Open Settings, go to System then Multitasking. Make sure that Snap windows is turned on. You can also customise how Snap Assist behaves, such as whether it shows suggestions or resizes windows together.
These options help tailor split screen behaviour to your preferences, making it easier to organise your screen just how you like it.
Split Screen on Dual Monitors
If you are using more than one monitor, split screen still works across each display. Snap a window to one side of one monitor and repeat the process on the second screen. This allows you to keep certain apps visible at all times, such as emails on one screen and work documents on the other.
You can also drag windows between monitors and use snap features independently on each one, creating a more flexible and spacious workspace.
Final Thoughts
Learning how to split screen on a PC can transform the way you use your computer. With built-in tools like Snap Assist, easy-to-remember shortcuts and extra features from PowerToys, Windows makes multitasking simple. Whether you are working, studying or browsing, split screen lets you do more at once without needing extra hardware or complex setups.