Want to boost your productivity by using multiple apps side by side? Splitting your screen into 4 sections in Windows is a powerful way to organize your workspace. In this guide, we’ll walk you through simple methods—from built-in features to advanced tools—so even beginners can do it with ease.
What Is Screen Splitting in Windows?
Screen splitting allows you to divide your desktop into multiple areas, showing different apps or windows at the same time. In Windows 11, the Snap Layout feature makes this even easier by providing built-in layouts like 2, 3, or 4 sections.
How to Split Your Screen into 4 Sections (Mouse Method)
- Open 4 apps or windows you want to arrange.
- Hover your mouse over the “Maximize” button on any window.
- Select the 4-section layout from the Snap options.
- Repeat the process for the remaining windows.
This is the easiest way, especially for beginners using Windows 11.
Use Keyboard Shortcuts to Quickly Split Screens
If you want to save time, use keyboard shortcuts to place your windows quickly:
- Win + ← / →: Snap to left/right
- Win + ↑ / ↓: Move to top/bottom
Combine these keys (e.g., Win + ← → Win + ↑) to position a window in the top-left, bottom-right, and so on.
Customize with FancyZones (PowerToys)
For more flexibility, try Microsoft’s free tool PowerToys. It includes FancyZones, which lets you create your own split layouts.
Steps to Use FancyZones:
- Download PowerToys from the Microsoft Store or GitHub.
- Open PowerToys and go to FancyZones.
- Click “Launch layout editor” and choose or create a 4-zone grid.
- Hold Shift while dragging windows into zones.
Troubleshooting Snap Layout Issues
- Check Settings: Go to
Settings → System → Multitaskingand make sure “Snap windows” is turned on. - OS Version: Snap Layouts are available in Windows 11. Windows 10 has simpler snap features.
- Conflicts: Some apps or customization tools may interfere with snapping.
Maximize Productivity with Multiple Displays
Using multiple monitors? You can snap windows across different screens. Just go to Settings → System → Display to arrange and extend your displays. FancyZones also supports custom layouts across monitors.
Quick Shortcut Table
| Action | Shortcut |
|---|---|
| Snap to left | Win + ← |
| Snap to right | Win + → |
| Move up | Win + ↑ |
| Move down | Win + ↓ |
| Top-left (example) | Win + ← then Win + ↑ |
| Bottom-right (example) | Win + → then Win + ↓ |
Bonus: Improve Your Setup with a Monitor Arm
Even with a perfect 4-split screen setup, a cluttered desk can ruin your workflow. Using a monitor arm lets you freely adjust your screen’s position and frees up valuable desk space. Create a clean, ergonomic workspace and stay focused.
This article contains affiliate links. If you purchase through them, we may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. Thank you for your support!
9. Conclusion
Whether you’re working from home, studying, or just multitasking, splitting your Windows screen into four sections can dramatically improve your efficiency. Try out the built-in features or explore FancyZones to tailor your layout. Once you get used to it, you’ll never go back!
💡 Looking for more tips? Check out our full list of Windows Help Guides.
▶︎WSUS Clients Not Updating? Common Causes and How to Fix Them
▶︎How to Export Microsoft Teams Posts to Excel (Beginner’s Guide)
