If you find the split screen feature on Windows 11 more distracting than helpful, turning it off is pretty straightforward. You can stop the split screen by changing a few settings in the system’s multitasking options. This quick guide will show you how to disable split screen on Windows 11 in just a few easy steps.
How to Stop Split Screen on Windows 11
Disabling the split screen on Windows 11 involves tweaking your system’s multitasking settings. By the end of these steps, the split screen feature will be turned off, giving you a single, uninterrupted workspace.
Step 1: Open the Settings App
Navigate to the Start menu and select the Settings app.
To start, click on the Start button—yep, that little Windows logo at the bottom left corner of your screen. From there, pick the Settings gear icon. This is like your control center where you can change almost anything on your computer.
Step 2: Go to System Settings
Select the System category in the Settings app.
Once you’re in the Settings app, look for the category labeled "System" and click on it. This is where you’ll find most of the settings related to how your computer runs.
Step 3: Access Multitasking Settings
Click on the Multitasking tab within the System settings.
Now, within the System settings, find and click on "Multitasking." This is where you can control how Windows handles multiple apps and screens.
Step 4: Turn Off Snap Windows
Toggle the Snap windows switch to the off position.
Under the Multitasking settings, you’ll see an option called "Snap windows." Simply switch this option to "Off" to disable the split screen functionality.
Step 5: Close the Settings App
Close the Settings app to save changes.
Once you’ve toggled off the Snap windows option, you can close the Settings app. Your changes will be saved automatically, so no need to worry about hitting a save button.
After completing these actions, you’ll notice that Windows 11 will no longer automatically split your screen when you drag a window to the side. This will give you a larger, uninterrupted workspace.
Tips for Stopping Split Screen on Windows 11
- Check Related Settings: Sometimes, other multitasking settings might interfere, so look around and disable anything else you don’t need.
- Update Windows: Make sure your Windows 11 is up to date. Sometimes, updates can change settings unexpectedly.
- Backup Settings: Always back up your settings before making changes, just in case you want to revert them later.
- Use Keyboard Shortcuts: Learn shortcuts like Alt + Tab to switch between windows more efficiently without needing split screen.
- Experiment with Layouts: Even if you turn off split screen, explore other window management tools to keep organized.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I re-enable split screen after turning it off?
To re-enable, go back to Settings > System > Multitasking and toggle the Snap windows switch back to "On."
Will turning off split screen affect my laptop’s performance?
No, it won’t impact performance. It just changes how windows are managed on your screen.
Can I turn off split screen for specific apps?
No, this setting is system-wide. You can’t selectively disable it for specific apps.
Does this work on all versions of Windows 11?
Yes, this method works universally across all versions of Windows 11.
How do I manage multiple windows without split screen?
Use task view (Win + Tab) to manage open windows more efficiently without using the split screen feature.
Steps Summary
- Open the Settings App
- Go to System Settings
- Access Multitasking Settings
- Turn Off Snap Windows
- Close the Settings App
Conclusion
There you have it! Disabling the split screen on Windows 11 is a simple process that can make your workspace feel less cluttered. If you ever find the feature more of a nuisance than a help, you now know how to turn it off. While the split screen can be handy for multitasking, not everyone finds it useful, and that’s okay. Remember, your computer should work for you, not the other way around.
Feel free to explore other settings within the multitasking section to find the perfect setup for your workflow. If you found this guide helpful, don’t forget to check out other how-tos to make the most of your Windows 11 experience. So, go ahead and reclaim your screen space!