How effectively can you multitask in the office? Are you known to have multiple windows and tabs open at any given time? With so many windows, applications, and tabs cluttering your brain, it helps to have tricks to keep them all in line. Using Smart windows (or Snap windows), you can place two or more side-by-side to clear things up a bit and make working in multiple apps or windows easier than ever.
How to Enable Snap Windows in Settings
Before you can use Snap windows, you have to enable them in your Settings.
Follow these instructions to turn on Snap Windows:
- Click Start and select the Settings icon.
- In Settings, click the System option from the left menu.
- From here, scroll down and click the Multitasking option.
- Ensure the toggle for Snap Windows is enabled.
Pretty easy, right? But how do you use these Snap Windows?
How to Snap with the Mouse
To snap windows into place with the mouse, follow these steps:
- Click and drag the top bar of your window to the leftmost or rightmost part of the screen.
- Release the window and it should automatically resize and snap into place (in this example, it should take up half the screen).
- You’ll see a new column open that prompts you to select another window to fill the remaining side of the screen.
It’s easy to see how this one simple trick can change the way you work. You can even use keyboard shortcuts to make it easier to snap windows.
How to Snap with Your Keyboard
If you’d rather use a couple keystrokes to snap your windows, you can do so with these shortcuts:
- Hold the Windows key
- Press the left or right arrow key to move the currently selected window to the left or right side of the screen.
- Repeat the process with another open window.
That’s all there is to it!
How to Unsnap Your Windows
To unsnap your windows, all you have to do is click and drag one with your mouse. Click on the window to select it, then drag it so that the cursor hits the top of the screen. This should return your window to its normal size. If you want to minimize your currently selected window, click and move your mouse slightly from side to side. You can also use the Windows key plus the up or down arrow to minimize and maximize your currently selected window.
We cover technology tips like these all the time, so if you want to do more with your technology, be sure to keep an eye on our blog, and for more info on how you can be more effective and efficient with your IT, call us at 408-927-8700 today.