How to Split Screen on Chromebook? Benefits and Key Methods

Chromebooks are lightweight, fast, and efficient laptops that operate on Chrome OS. One of the most useful productivity features of a Chromebook is the ability to split the screen. It allows users to work with two applications side by side. However, most are unaware of how to split screen on Chromebook. 

This feature is helpful not only for multitasking but also for taking notes and increasing efficiency while working or studying. Therefore, you should know about how to utilize the potential of this aspect. In this guide, I have detailed the various methods to split the screen on a Chromebook.

Before explaining how to split screen on Chromebook, I have mentioned the key advantages and benefits of using this amazing attribute.

• Enhanced Multitasking: Work on multiple applications simultaneously.
• Increased Productivity: No need to switch between tabs repeatedly.
• Efficient Workflow: Allows better organization and workflow management.
• Better Collaboration: Helps in video calls while working on documents.

In the under section, I have provided the details on different methods so that you can understand how to split screen on Chromebook.

Method 1 – Use Drag and Drop

The simplest way to split the screen on a Chromebook whether an HP Chromebook, Lenovo Chromebook, or any other Chromebook, is by using the drag and drop feature. Below are the steps to split the screen with this method.

• Open the two applications or windows you want to use.
• Click and hold the title bar of one window.

• Drag the window to the left edge of the screen until it snaps into place.

• Release the mouse button, and the window will be fixed on the left side.

• Click and hold the second window’s title bar and drag it to the right edge.

• Release the mouse button, and the window will occupy the right side of the screen.

• You now have a perfectly split screen with two applications running side by side.

Method 2 – Split Screen With the Maximize Button

Another way to split the screen is by utilizing the maximize button which is located at the top right corner of each window. The following are the steps to follow in this regard.

• Open the two applications you want to use.
• Locate the maximize button (square icon) at the top right corner of a window.
• Click and hold the maximize button.
• You will see arrows pointing left and right; drag the window to the left or right as needed.
• Release the mouse button, and the window will snap to one side.
• Repeat the process for the second application to fill the other half of the screen.

Read More: How to Take a Screenshot on Chromebook – A Complete Guide

Method 3 – Keyboard Shortcuts for Split Screen on Chromebook

For users who prefer using keyboard shortcuts, Chrome OS provides a quick way to split the screen. I personally use them for splitting the screen especially when I have to create high quality online graphics.

• Open both applications or windows.
• Select the window you want on the left.
• Press Alt + [ to snap the window to the left side.
• Select the second window and press Alt + ] to snap it to the right side.
• Your screen will now be evenly split between the two applications.

Once you have activated split screen mode, you may want to adjust the screen space allocated to each window. The steps are quite easy and I have mentioned them below:

• Hover the cursor over the dividing line between the two windows.
• Click and hold the line, then drag it left or right to resize the windows.
• Release the mouse when you have set your preferred size.

If you no longer need split screen mode, you can exit it easily. There are multiple ways to do so and all of them are immensely simple.

• Click on the maximize button in one of the windows to return to full screen.
• Alternatively, drag the dividing line to the left or right until one window takes up the full screen.
• Close one of the windows if you no longer need it.

These are the details on how to split screen on Chromebook. I have mentioned all the ways in this guide so that you can follow the one widely suitable to you. While this feature is useful to enhance multitasking, you should also know that not all applications are compatible with it. Thus, you will face slight challenges in such situations. 

Whether you use the drag and drop method, the maximize button, keyboard shortcuts, or tablet mode, you can quickly arrange your workspace to suit your needs. Just master the techniques explained in this guide, and you can work more efficiently and make the most of your Chromebook’s capabilities.