OS X Split View: A Guide to Using Split Windows
Introducing Split View in Mac OS X El Capitan
Mac OS X 10.11, known as El Capitan, introduced a significant enhancement to window management: Split View. This feature allows users to divide their screen evenly between two windows, mirroring a functionality long available in Windows operating systems.
While not a novel concept, the inclusion of Split View was a welcome addition for many users, particularly those transitioning from Windows. Previously, achieving similar window arrangement required third-party applications like Windows Tidy. Now, this capability is integrated directly into the system.
How to Utilize Split View
Using Split View is a straightforward process. To initiate it, click and hold the green window button – typically used for maximizing windows.
Continue holding the button until one half of the screen becomes translucent blue. This indicates the area where you can drop the window to activate Split View.
You have the flexibility to choose either the left or right side of the screen for window placement.
After positioning your initial window, your other open windows will appear in Mission Control, allowing you to select a second window to fill the remaining screen space. If you decide against continuing, simply click outside of any window to revert to the original arrangement.
Selecting the Second Window
Consider the scenario where you have Messages and Chrome open. Hovering over Chrome will highlight it with a blue border, indicating it's selectable for Split View.
Clicking on the desired window will snap it into place alongside the first, creating the Split View arrangement.
Adjusting Window Sizes and Exiting Split View
To resize the windows within Split View, simply drag the thick black line separating them. As you resize, the secondary window will appear slightly blurred.
To exit Split View, click the green button again. This will restore focus to the clicked window and return all windows to their previous sizes and positions.
If no other windows are available to snap into place, a message will appear indicating "No Available Windows".
Initial Impressions and Limitations
The introduction of Split View in OS X was a positive step forward. However, the initial implementation was somewhat basic. Despite this, it demonstrated considerable potential for enhancing user productivity.
It's important to note that some applications may not fully support this feature. Furthermore, the OS X method requires selecting a second window immediately, which can feel restrictive compared to the Windows approach of freely dragging windows to the screen edge.
With practice, the OS X Split View method should become intuitive. We encourage you to share your thoughts and experiences in our discussion forum.