Mac's Split View feature lets you work with two apps side by side in full-screen mode, maximizing productivity by eliminating distractions from other open windows. This built-in macOS tool is particularly useful for comparing documents, referencing materials while writing, or monitoring two applications simultaneously. Split View works across most Mac models running macOS Mojave (10.14) or later, though some apps may not support it due to compatibility limitations.

• Primary methods to activate Split View: Use the green window button, Mission Control, or the Window menu options ^[1][2][7]
• Key limitations: Apps in full-screen mode (like Netflix) cannot enter Split View, and some third-party apps may not support the feature ^[5][9]
• Customization options: Adjust window widths by dragging the divider, swap window positions, or replace one app without exiting Split View ^[2][6]
• Alternatives for advanced users: Third-party tools like Rectangle or BetterTouchTool offer Windows-like snapping for those who prefer more visual feedback ^[3]

Using Mac Split View Effectively

Entering and Exiting Split View

Split View can be activated through multiple methods, each suited to different workflow preferences. The most common approach uses the green window button, but Mission Control and menu options provide alternatives for power users. Exiting is equally straightforward, though the process differs slightly depending on how you entered the mode.

To enter Split View using the green button:

• Hover over the green full-screen button in the top-left corner of an app window until a dropdown menu appears
• Select "Tile Window to Left of Screen" or "Tile Window to Right of Screen" ^[2][7]
• The window will occupy half the screen, and Mission Control will display your other open windows for selection
• Click on a second window to complete the Split View setup ^[1][6]

Alternative entry methods include:

• Via Window menu: Open the Window menu in any app and choose either "Tile Window to Left of Screen" or "Tile Window to Right of Screen" ^[2]
• Through Mission Control: Open Mission Control (Control + Up Arrow), drag a window to the top of the screen, then select another window from Mission Control ^[4][9]
• Keyboard shortcuts: While no default shortcut exists, users can create custom shortcuts in System Settings > Keyboard > Keyboard Shortcuts > App Shortcuts ^[2]

Exiting Split View requires either:

• Moving the pointer to the top of the screen to reveal the menu bar, then clicking the green button again ^[1]
• Pressing the Escape key to exit full-screen mode entirely ^[6]
• Using the Mission Control gesture (swipe up with three or four fingers) to leave Split View ^[4]

Notable limitations when entering Split View:

• Apps already in full-screen mode cannot be tiled without first exiting full-screen ^[5]
• Some applications (particularly older or non-native macOS apps) may not support Split View at all ^[9]
• The feature requires macOS Mojave (10.14) or later—earlier versions use a different full-screen implementation ^[9]

Managing Windows and Advanced Techniques

Once in Split View, macOS provides several tools for managing your workspace efficiently. The divider between windows can be dragged left or right to adjust the relative width of each app, with a minimum size threshold to prevent windows from becoming unusable. Users can also swap window positions, replace one app with another, or interact between applications by dragging and dropping content.

Key window management features:

• Resizing windows: Click and drag the vertical divider between windows to adjust their relative widths. The divider snaps to predefined ratios but allows custom sizing ^[1][2]
• Swapping positions: Drag a window's title bar to the opposite side to swap its position with the other app ^[2]
• Replacing apps: Hover over the green button of either window to see available open apps, then click to replace the current window ^[1]
• Inter-app interactions: Drag files, text, or images directly between the two Split View windows ^[2][7]

Advanced techniques for power users:

• Using two windows from the same app: Some apps (like Safari or Notes) support opening two instances in Split View. Open a second window from the File menu first ^[2]
• Menu bar visibility: Toggle the menu bar's auto-hiding behavior in System Settings > Desktop & Dock to keep it always visible or hidden ^[2]
• Multiple desktops: Combine Split View with Spaces (virtual desktops) by creating a new desktop in Mission Control, then setting up Split View there ^[9]
• Third-party enhancements: Tools like Rectangle (free) or BetterTouchTool (paid) add Windows-style snapping with visual guides and customizable shortcuts ^[3]

Troubleshooting common issues:

• If Split View isn't working, verify "Displays have separate Spaces" is enabled in System Settings > Mission Control ^[4]
• Unresponsive apps may require force-quitting (Command + Option + Escape) if they freeze in Split View ^[9]
• For external monitors, ensure the display is set to "Mirror Displays" = off in System Settings > Displays ^[9]

For users needing more than two windows simultaneously, macOS doesn't natively support true quad-view, but you can:

• Manually resize and position windows to simulate tiling ^[2]
• Use multiple desktops with Split View on each ^[9]
• Consider third-party window managers for grid layouts ^[3]