How to Split Screen on iPad: A Comprehensive Guide
Split-screen multitasking on your iPad is a game-changer for productivity and efficiency. Whether you’re a student, a professional, or just someone who loves to multitask, knowing how to split your screen can greatly enhance your iPad experience. In this detailed guide, I’ll walk you through the process of splitting your screen on an iPad, covering various methods and scenarios.
Understanding Split Screen on iPad
Before diving into the specifics, let’s understand what split-screen multitasking means on an iPad. It allows you to run two apps side by side, effectively doubling your productivity. This feature is available on iPadOS 13 and later versions.
Method 1: Using the Split View
The Split View is the most common way to split your screen on an iPad. Here’s how to do it:
- Open the first app you want to use.
- Swipe up from the bottom of the screen to bring up the Dock.
- Find the second app you want to use and tap and hold it.
- Drag the app from the Dock to the left or right side of the screen.
- Adjust the size of the windows by dragging the separator bar between the apps.
Once you’ve set up the split screen, you can easily switch between the two apps by swiping from the left edge of the screen.
Method 2: Using the Slide Over Feature
The Slide Over feature is another way to split your screen on an iPad. It allows you to view a second app as a floating window over the first app. Here’s how to use it:
- Open the first app you want to use.
- Swipe up from the bottom of the screen to bring up the Dock.
- Find the second app you want to use and tap and hold it.
- Drag the app from the Dock to the right side of the screen.
- Adjust the size of the Slide Over window by dragging the separator bar.
When you’re done with the Slide Over, you can easily close it by swiping it up from the bottom of the screen.
Method 3: Using Split View with Apple Pencil
For iPad users with Apple Pencil, the Apple Pencil can be used to split the screen into two halves. Here’s how to do it:
- Open the first app you want to use.
- Tap and hold the Apple Pencil on the screen.
- Drag the Apple Pencil to the right or left side of the screen to create a split view.
- Adjust the size of the windows by dragging the separator bar.
This method is particularly useful for note-taking and drawing apps, as it allows you to view your notes or drawings while working on another app.
Method 4: Using Split View with Split View Extensions
Split View extensions allow you to use certain apps in a split-screen view. Here’s how to enable and use Split View extensions:
- Go to Settings on your iPad.
- Tap on “General” and then “Multitasking & Dock” or “Home Screen & Dock” (depending on your iPadOS version).
- Under “Split View,” tap on “Allow Split View Apps” or “Use Split View Extensions” (depending on your iPadOS version).
- Toggle the switch next to the apps you want to use in Split View.
Once enabled, you can open these apps in Split View just like any other app.
Method 5: Using Split View with Picture in Picture
Picture in Picture (PiP) allows you to watch a video in a small window while using another app. Here’s how to use it:
- Open the video app and play a video.
- Tap the PiP button (a square with a play button inside) in the video controls.
- Drag the video window to the side of the screen and adjust its size.
This method is particularly useful for watching videos while working on other tasks.
Conclusion
Split-screen multitasking on your iPad can
