Windows Snap Layouts: Work on Two Apps Side by Side

One of the most useful features built into Windows is called Snap. It lets you place two or more apps side by side on your screen at the same time — for example, a browser on the left and your notes on the right. You can look at both without switching back and forth.

This is especially helpful when you are comparing information from two sources, filling out a form while referencing a document, or watching a video while taking notes.

Basic Snap: Two apps side by side

The most common use is splitting the screen in half. Drag one app window to the left edge of the screen until you see a blue outline appear — let go and the app fills the left half. Windows then asks which open app you want on the right side. Click it and both apps fill the screen.

Windows 11 Snap Layouts

In Windows 11, hover your mouse over the maximize button (the square icon in the top-right corner of any window) and a grid appears showing different layout options: two apps side by side, three apps in columns, a large app with two smaller ones stacked, and more. Click a zone in the grid to snap the app to that position.

Adjusting the divider

After snapping two apps, you will see a divider line between them. Click and drag that divider left or right to give more space to whichever app needs it.

Unsnapping

To go back to normal, click the maximize button on either app. It returns to its original floating window. Or drag the window away from the edge of the screen.

Quick Tip: Snap works on most Windows 10 and 11 PCs. If you are on a small laptop with limited screen space, it works best when your monitor is 13 inches or larger.