How to split the screen into four parts in Windows 11

Multitasking has become commonplace when using a computer, and in Windows 11 it's easier than ever thanks to the adjustable layouts. If what you want is to see four windows at once (For example, a browser, a document, a spreadsheet, and a chat), the system offers several ways to do this quickly, efficiently, and without getting bogged down with the mouse. This guide explains how. Split the screen into four in Windows 11.

In this guide you'll find everything you need: what split screen is and why it's worth it, how to enable window snapping, key keyboard shortcuts, the exact steps to split your screen into four parts, more advanced techniques (including using PowerToys), and a troubleshooting section. The goal is to help you set up your ideal workspace with the least possible friction and in a few minutes.

What is split screen and what advantages does it have?

Split screen is the function that allows you to divide the monitor space into zones where you can place different applications, whether in two, three or four slots. The most obvious benefit is the increase in productivity: you avoid constantly switching between windows and have everything in view.

In addition to the efficiency boost, there are other clear advantages: better approach by concentrating relevant information on the same level, immediate comparisons between documents or images and a smoother workflow when dragging and dropping content between apps.

It also helps to organize complex projects: You can dedicate each quadrant to a part of your work (for example, references, writing, data and communication), which reduces distractions and saves you time.

If you use multiple monitors or an ultrawide monitor, the feature becomes even more useful: You can replicate the adjustment on each screen and multiply the space available for your tasks without complications.

Activate and configure window snapping in Windows 11

Before you start splitting the screen into four, make sure that Windows 11's window snapping feature is enabled. The settings are located in the Multitasking panel. and it's enabled in seconds.

1. Open Settings with Win + IGo into System and choose Multitasking.
2. Flip the switch Docking windows (Snap windows). Then, expand its options and check the boxes available under this section to take advantage of all the system's help when adjusting.

With these boxes checked, Windows will show you suggestions, docking surfaces, and previews, as well as make it easier to adjust when dragging a window. It's the foundation for Snap to work smoothly. and allows you to effortlessly build grids of 2, 3, or 4 windows.

Splitting the screen into four parts in Windows 11: step-by-step methods

Windows 11 incorporates the fit designsThese appear when you hover over the maximize button of any window. From there you can choose the pattern with four zones and fill each space with an open app.

Below are three ways to achieve the same result (four windows at the same time) and choose the one that feels most natural to you. Try each method a couple of times. And you'll see that you'll quickly find the one that suits you best.

Method 1: Adjustment layouts from the maximize button

1. Place the mouse over the maximize button of the window you want to position. Without clickingThe design menu will open.
2. Select the design with four quadrants and click on the space where you want to place that window. The app will be integrated into that section automatically.
3. Windows will show you the remaining gaps and suggest other open windows to fill them. Choose one for each quadrant until the 2x2 design is complete.

Method 2: Keyboard shortcuts for quadrants

1. With a window selected, press Win + Left Arrow o Win + Right Arrow to anchor it to the corresponding half.
2. Without letting go of the window (or once it's anchored), use Win + Up Arrow o Win + Down Arrow to move it to the top or bottom corner of that half. This way you place it in a quarter of the screen.
3. Repeat the combination with the other applications until you have four windows, one in each corner. This method is extremely fast. when you get used to shortcuts.

Method 3: drag to the corners

1. Click on a window's title bar and drag it to a corner of the screen until you see the docking silhouette. Upon release, it will remain fixed in that quadrant..
2. Repeat with the other windows to complete all four corners. It's very visual and works great with a mouse. or trackpad.

Remember that you can resize the quadrant ratio: place the cursor over the edges that separate the windows until you see the adjustment pointer and drag it. The rest of the windows will be adapted to maintain the design.

Other ways to organize windows in Windows 11

Beyond the 2x2 layout, Windows 11 offers layouts for two and three applications, and also allows you to modify the width of each column or row. Explore the available variants When you hover your mouse over the maximize button, you'll see six basic options to cover most scenarios.

You can also open the layout selector with Win+Z and navigate it with the keyboard arrows to choose the desired pattern and specific position. If you prefer keyboard to mouse, is the most direct way.

When a design is in progress, each slot will ask you to choose an application from those open. Select the one that fits best in each section and, if you need to move something, drag it within the design or use the Snap menu again.

If the predefined designs fall short, there are more options: power toys (FancyZones) allows you to create custom grids with sizes and zones to suit your needs, ideal for large or ultrawide screens; see how split screen to see alternatives and practical examples.

Create full screen, half screen, and quarter screen in Windows 11

There are times when you want to dedicate the entire screen to a single app and then return to a split layout. Toggle between full screen and layouts It is very simple.

1. Full screen: Click the maximize icon in the window to expand it. To restore the split design, go back to using Snap (menu or shortcuts).
2. Half screen: hover over the maximize button, choose one of the left or right positions, and select the app on the opposite side. Ideal for comparing two elements.
3. A quarter of the screen: shows the designs, select the pattern of four and click on one of the corners. Repeat to complete all four positions with the rest of the windows.

Essential keyboard shortcuts

Memorizing a few combinations saves you dozens of clicks. These are the shortcuts you'll use the most. with the split screen.

• Win + Left/Right Arrow: anchors the current window to the left/right half.
• Win + Up Arrow: maximizes the window or moves it to the upper quadrant within a half.
• Win + Down Arrow: restores or minimizes; in combination with left/right sends to a lower quadrant.
• Win+Z: Opens the layout selector in Windows 11.
• Win + Tab: displays the Task View with all windows and desktops.
• Win + Home: minimizes all windows except the active one to clear the view.
• Win + Ctrl + D: creates a new virtual desktop to separate work contexts.
• Win + Ctrl + Left/Right Arrow: switches between virtual desktops.

Practical tips for comfortable use of split screen

A good technical foundation is noticeable. If you can use a larger monitor or one with a higher resolutionYou'll gain usable space and visual comfort when working with four windows.

Learn the shortcuts little by little and practice with the predefined designs. Find your favorite pattern It will make you fly when you organize apps for writing, researching, or analyzing data.

If you need even more control than Windows 11 offers, consider third-party options. There are free and paid utilities available which expand the window adjustment, although for most users Snap and PowerToys will be more than enough.

In Settings, within Multitasking, customize the behavior of the setting (samples, suggestions, group resizing, etc.). Having it just the way you like it avoids friction. In day to day.

And a hardware note: more RAM and an SSD help open and switch between applications without waiting. Keep Windows up to date and perform basic maintenance tasks so that everything runs smoothly.

Additional recommendations and best practices

If you're missing a grid pattern, try PowerToys and create your own zones. FancyZones provides a level of control which fits very well with ultrawide monitors and complex workflows.

When a section becomes too small, resize the separator and adjust the space priority. Windows maintains the layout while redistributing width/height so that nothing overlaps.

Remember that you can duplicate this approach on multiple monitors: each screen with its own 2×2. Work in separate areas It helps you avoid mixing contexts and stay focused.

If the native options fall short, there are third-party window managers with advanced features (some free, others paid). Only value them if you really need thembecause Windows 11 already covers many cases.

Mastering fit designs is a matter of two or three tries and a bit of practice with shortcuts. When you internalize the gestures and combinationsSplitting the screen into four in Windows 11 becomes as natural as opening a new browser tab.