Windows 11’s split screen feature is pretty handy for multitasking, but honestly, it can be a pain if you prefer having one app full-screen at a time. If you’re stuck with split screens and want to get back to your usual setup, here’s how to do it — because, of course, Windows loves making things a bit tricky sometimes.
How to Stop Split Screen on Windows 11
Getting rid of split screens is pretty simple once you know where to look. Just follow these steps — I’ve seen it work, sometimes you just need to try a few times.
Method 1: Drag the Windows Back
This one’s the easiest. Just click and hold the title bar of the app you want full-screen, then drag it away from the split section — towards the middle of the screen or to the top. On some setups, dragging the window back to full-screen will instantly undo the split. Sometimes it doesn’t work straight away — might be a quick glitch — so just give it another go or restart the app if needed.
Why it helps: because dragging resets where the window sits, which can automatically cancel the split layout. When you drag a window away from the snapped area, Windows usually knows you want it maximized.
When to use: if windows are snapped or split and you want them full-screen without fuss.
What to expect: the app will fill the whole screen and the split view will disappear. Easy as! Just don’t be surprised if it doesn’t work on the first try every time.
Method 2: Turn Off Snap Layouts in Settings
This one’s in the control panel. Head over to Settings > System > Multitasking. Find the toggle labelled Snap windows. Turning this off stops Windows from auto-splitting your screens anymore.
Why it helps: if split screens keep cropping up on their own, turning this off means Windows won’t do it for you.
When to do it: if split screens bug you, or you just don’t like the idea of Windows snapping apps around all the time.
What to expect: no more automatic snapping. You can still manually snap windows if you want, but no auto-splitting happening anymore.
Heads up: on some machines, you might need to reboot or sign out for the setting to kick in properly. So if it’s not working straight away, give that a shot.
Method 3: Keyboard Shortcuts for Full Screen
Just hit the Windows key + Up Arrow. Bob’s your uncle! Your window will maximise right away. Super handy if your mouse’s elsewhere or you’re running short on time.
Why it helps: quick and easy way to get your app full-screen without messing about with menus or dragging things.
When to use: if your window’s snapped or split and you want it full-screen fast.
What to expect: your app expands to fill the screen. Sometimes Windows misses it the first go if your system’s being a bit slow or funny, so give it another shot if it’s not working at first.
Method 4: Close Extra Windows
Sometimes the split view sticks around because both apps are still open. Just close one by clicking the X on its window. Once one’s gone, the other usually jumps full-screen — easy!
Why it helps: it’s a quick fix if dragging isn’t doing the trick, and it automatically switches to full-screen for the remaining app.
When to do it: if the split stubbornly stays put and dragging isn’t helping.
What to expect: the remaining window will switch to full-screen without any dramas.
Method 5: Check App-Specific Settings
Some apps have their own split or multi-view features—like Teams or split-screen browsers. Check inside the app’s settings for layout, display, or split view options and turn them off.
Why it helps: because even if Windows isn’t snapping windows, some apps might force their own split mode. Fix it right at the source.
When to do this: if you’ve turned off Windows snap but still see split views inside specific apps.
What to expect: the app opens full-screen normally, and you won’t have split views by accident in future.
One thing to remember: some folks say that after toggling settings, a quick reboot or sign-out helps lock in the changes. Not quite sure why, but it seems to do the trick.
Tips for Stopping Split Screen on Windows 11
- Check for updates: your Windows might need an update. Sometimes bugs cause split screen to behave weirdly.
- Adjust snap layouts: try playing with Settings > System > Multitasking, tweaking options rather than turning everything off.
- Memorise shortcuts: get used to Win + Up or Win + Down to maximise or minimise windows quick-smart.
- Explore virtual desktops: if split screens bug you, virtual desktops are a good backup — Settings > System > Multitasking > Virtual Desktops.
- Use Task View: to manage your apps fast, hit the Task View button or press Win + Tab.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I stop my windows from snapping?
Just go to Settings > System > Multitasking and turn off Snap windows. Easy as that.
Can I customise the snap feature instead of turning it all off?
Yep! You can tweak it in the same menu. Adjust options like Snap Assist, Automatically arrange windows, or set your own snap zones if you want some control without full auto-splitting.
Will turning off snap layouts muck up other features?
Nah, it mainly stops Windows from snapping or arranging windows on its own. Your manual snap commands still work if you want to organise things yourself.
Are there shortcuts for managing split screens?
Definitely. Win + Left/Right Arrow snaps windows to the sides, Win + Up maximises, and so on. Once you get the hang of them, managing your apps is a breeze.
How do I get back to split screen after turning it off?
Just turn Snap windows back on in Settings > System > Multitasking. Then, you can manually snap windows using Snap Assist or drag them around.
Summary of Steps
- Drag windows back to full screen or away from snap zones.
- Disable Snap windows in Settings > System > Multitasking.
- Use Win + Up Arrow shortcut to maximise apps quick-smart.
- Close any extra apps causing the split.
- Check app-specific settings if needed.
Conclusion
Split screen on Windows 11 can be handy when multitasking, but it can also be a bit frustrating if it’s not what you’re after. Luckily, the steps are pretty easy to follow once you know where to look. Drag, toggle, or shortcut your way out, and your desktop will stay tidy. Sometimes Windows likes to make things complicated, but these tips should do the trick.
Hopefully, this helps save you some hassle. And don’t forget—sometimes a quick reboot or signing out does the trick too. Good luck fiddling with your workspace!