For Mac users, maximizing productivity and managing screen real estate effectively is a key priority. One of the best ways to achieve this is by using windowed mode. While full-screen mode offers an immersive experience, sometimes you want the flexibility of a windowed environment, especially if you need to multitask across multiple applications. In this article, we’ll uncover the secret to windowed mode on Mac, offering you step-by-step guidance on how to activate it, customize your setup, and troubleshoot common issues.
What is Windowed Mode?
Windowed mode allows you to run applications on your Mac in a resizable window, offering a flexible layout compared to full-screen mode. This feature provides users with more control over screen space, making it ideal for multitasking. With windowed mode, you can seamlessly switch between apps, resize windows, and drag them across different screens or monitors.
Benefits of Using Windowed Mode on Mac
Running applications in windowed mode offers numerous advantages:
- Enhanced Multitasking: View multiple apps side-by-side, improving your productivity by reducing the need to switch between full-screen applications.
- Flexible Screen Management: Easily resize and move windows to achieve your ideal layout.
- Reduced Disruptions: With a non-full-screen setup, notifications and other essential tools remain accessible.
How to Activate Windowed Mode on Mac
Now that you know the benefits, let’s delve into the steps to enable windowed mode on your Mac:
1. Open Your Application in Standard View
Most Mac applications open in a window by default. If an app automatically opens in full-screen mode, press the green button at the top-left corner of the window to exit full-screen mode.
2. Adjust Window Size
Once in standard view, you can adjust the window size by dragging the corners or edges. This resizing function allows you to customize the display size of the app to fit your screen setup and needs.
3. Move Windows Between Desktops
If you’re using multiple desktops, you can easily move an application from one desktop to another:
- Open Mission Control by swiping up with three fingers on your trackpad or by pressing the F3 key.
- Drag the window to the desired desktop or display.
4. Utilize Split View
MacOS also offers Split View as an extension of windowed mode. Here’s how to activate it:
- Hover over the green button in the top-left corner of an application window.
- Select either “Tile Window to Left of Screen” or “Tile Window to Right of Screen.”
- Choose another app to open alongside your current one in Split View.
For more advanced window management techniques, check out Apple’s support page for additional tips.
Troubleshooting Common Issues in Windowed Mode
If you encounter issues with windowed mode on your Mac, here are some common problems and solutions:
1. App Automatically Opens in Full-Screen
If an application always opens in full-screen mode, try the following:
- Open the app, switch it to windowed mode by pressing the green button, then close the app. The app should remember this preference when you open it again.
2. Window is Too Large or Off the Screen
If a window’s dimensions exceed your display size:
- Press and hold the Option key, then click on the green button in the upper-left corner to resize the window to fit your screen.
3. Split View Not Working
If Split View doesn’t activate:
- Ensure that Displays have separate Spaces is enabled in System Preferences > Mission Control.
Advanced Window Management Tools
Beyond the built-in MacOS tools, third-party apps can enhance your window management experience:
- Magnet: Allows you to snap windows to edges and corners, providing a more structured layout.
- Rectangle: A free app that lets you quickly resize and rearrange windows with keyboard shortcuts.
Conclusion
Mastering windowed mode on your Mac can transform your productivity, providing a more streamlined and organized workspace. By following the steps above, you can quickly switch between applications, customize your workspace, and tackle common window management issues. Whether you’re a seasoned Mac user or new to the ecosystem, understanding windowed mode will help you make the most of your Mac experience.
For more Mac productivity tips, check out our guide on optimizing your Mac’s performance.
This article is in the category Guides & Tutorials and created by Windows Portal Team