How Do You Turn Off Split Screen on an iPad? Simple Guide

Trendian Staff

Ever found yourself juggling multiple apps on your iPad, only to realize you’re in split-screen mode and want to return to a single app view? It’s a common situation, and thankfully, turning off split screen on an iPad is straightforward. Whether you’re a seasoned iPad user or just getting started, knowing how to manage split-screen multitasking is essential for a smooth and efficient experience.

This guide will walk you through the various methods to disable split screen on your iPad, ensuring you can easily switch between apps or focus on a single task. We’ll cover the basics, from simple gestures to more advanced techniques. You’ll be able to close split screen and get back to your single app view in no time. Let’s get started!

Understanding Split Screen on iPad

Before we jump into turning off split screen, let’s quickly recap what it is and why it’s useful. Split View on iPad allows you to have two apps open side-by-side, maximizing your productivity by letting you work on two tasks simultaneously. This feature is a core part of iPadOS, designed to make multitasking intuitive and efficient.

Why Use Split Screen?

Split screen is perfect for a variety of tasks, such as:

  • Comparing information: Reviewing documents while taking notes.
  • Copying and pasting: Easily moving text or images between apps.
  • Multitasking: Responding to emails while watching a video.
  • Research: Browsing the web while referencing a document.

However, there are times when you want to focus on a single app, and that’s when you’ll want to turn off the split screen. Let’s explore the ways to do just that.

Methods to Turn Off Split Screen

There are several ways to disable split screen on your iPad. The method you choose often depends on how the split screen was initiated in the first place, or your personal preference. Here’s a breakdown of the most common techniques:

Method 1: Using the App Switcher (most Common)

This is often the easiest and most intuitive way to close split screen. It leverages the app switcher, which shows all your open apps, including those in split-screen mode.

  1. Open the App Switcher: Swipe up from the bottom of the screen and pause in the middle, or double-press the Home button on older iPads. This will bring up the App Switcher.
  2. Identify Your Split Screen Apps: You’ll see cards representing all your open apps. Split-screen apps will appear side-by-side.
  3. Close One App: Swipe up on one of the app cards in the split-screen view to close it. This will automatically bring the remaining app to full-screen mode.
  4. Alternatively, Tap the App Icon: In the App Switcher, you can also tap and hold on one of the app cards in split-screen, and then tap the red minus icon to close it. This also removes it from the split screen.

This method works reliably and is generally the quickest way to exit split screen.

Method 2: Using the App’s Top Bar (multitasking Menu)

Each app in split screen has a multitasking menu at the top. This menu provides options to manage the app’s display and behavior, including removing it from split screen.

  1. Locate the Multitasking Menu: Look for the three dots (···) at the top of either app’s screen. This is your multitasking control.
  2. Tap the Three Dots: This will bring up a menu with several options.
  3. Choose ‘Close’ or ‘Full Screen’: Depending on the iPadOS version, you will see options such as ‘Close’ or icons to move the app to full screen. Tap the appropriate icon or option to remove the app from split screen. If you have the option for ‘Full Screen’, the app will expand to fill the entire screen, closing the split screen.

This is a handy method if you’re already actively using the apps in split screen.

Method 3: Using the Dock

The Dock, located at the bottom of your iPad’s screen, is a convenient place to access your favorite apps. It also plays a role in managing split screen. (See Also: Should You Jailbreak Your iPad? A Comprehensive Guide)

  1. Observe the Dock: When in split screen, the Dock will still be visible.
  2. Drag the Separator: If you want to make one of the apps bigger, you can drag the black separator bar that appears between the apps to resize them.
  3. Close One App: You can’t directly close an app from the dock in split screen mode, but you can use the App Switcher or the Multitasking menu.

The Dock is more useful for initiating split screen, but it can be used in conjunction with the other methods to close it.

Method 4: Force Closing Apps

If an app is unresponsive or you’re having trouble closing split screen using the other methods, you can force close the apps. This is a more aggressive method and should be used as a last resort.

  1. Open the App Switcher: Swipe up from the bottom of the screen and pause, or double-press the Home button.
  2. Find the App: Locate the app card you want to close.
  3. Swipe Up to Close: Swipe up on the app card to force close the app.

This will close the app and remove it from the split screen. Be aware that you might lose unsaved data in the app.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Sometimes, you might encounter issues when trying to turn off split screen. Here are some common problems and their solutions:

Problem: Unable to Swipe Up to Close

If you find that swiping up on the app card in the App Switcher doesn’t close the app, it could be due to a frozen app or a software glitch.

Solution:

  • Force Restart Your iPad: Press and quickly release the volume up button, press and quickly release the volume down button, then press and hold the power button until the Apple logo appears. This can resolve minor software issues.
  • Try a Different Method: Use the Multitasking menu or force close the app as described above.

Problem: Split Screen Won’t Go Away

In rare cases, the split screen might persist even after you’ve tried closing the apps. This could be due to a bug in iPadOS.

Solution:

  • Restart Your iPad: A simple restart can often fix temporary software glitches.
  • Update iPadOS: Make sure your iPad is running the latest version of iPadOS. Go to Settings > General > Software Update to check for updates.
  • Reset All Settings: If the problem persists, you can try resetting all settings on your iPad (Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPad > Reset > Reset All Settings). This won’t delete your data, but it will reset your preferences.

Problem: Apps Are Still Open in the Background

Even after closing an app, it might still be running in the background, consuming resources.

Solution: (See Also: How Do I Delete an Icon on My iPad? A Simple Guide)

  • Force Close the App: As described above, use the App Switcher to force close the app.
  • Check Background App Refresh: Go to Settings > General > Background App Refresh and ensure that the app isn’t set to refresh in the background.

Tips for Effective Multitasking

While this guide focuses on turning off split screen, it’s worth exploring ways to enhance your multitasking experience on iPad. Here are some tips:

1. Use Slide Over

Slide Over allows you to have an app in a floating window that you can swipe in and out from the side of the screen. This is great for quick tasks without needing to fully commit to split screen.

How to use Slide Over:

  1. Open an app.
  2. Swipe up from the bottom of the screen to reveal the Dock.
  3. Drag an app from the Dock to the side of the screen.
  4. The app will appear in a floating window.

2. Use Picture in Picture (pip)

Picture in Picture (PiP) is perfect for watching videos while using other apps. The video will shrink to a small, movable window that stays on top of other apps.

How to use Picture in Picture:

  1. Start playing a video in a compatible app (e.g., YouTube, Netflix).
  2. Tap the PiP icon (usually a small box with an arrow pointing into it).
  3. The video will shrink into a corner of the screen.
  4. You can move the video around and continue using other apps.

3. Learn Keyboard Shortcuts

If you use a keyboard with your iPad, learning keyboard shortcuts can greatly improve your multitasking efficiency. For example, Command + Tab switches between apps.

4. Customize Your Dock

The Dock is a crucial part of multitasking. Customize it with your most frequently used apps to easily switch between them.

How to customize the Dock:

  1. On the Home Screen, long-press an app icon in the Dock.
  2. Tap ‘Edit Home Screen’.
  3. Drag apps to or from the Dock.

5. Practice and Experiment

The best way to become proficient at multitasking on your iPad is to practice and experiment with different methods. Find what works best for your workflow.

iPad Models and Ipados Compatibility

The methods described in this guide are compatible with most iPad models running iPadOS. However, the exact appearance of the interface and the available features may vary slightly depending on your iPad model and the version of iPadOS installed. (See Also: How Much Data Do I Need for iPad? Data Usage Guide)

Here’s a general overview of compatibility:

  • iPad Pro: All models are fully compatible with split screen and multitasking features.
  • iPad Air: All models are fully compatible.
  • iPad (Standard): All models are fully compatible.
  • iPad mini: All models are fully compatible.

Make sure your iPad is running the latest version of iPadOS to ensure you have access to all the features and the best user experience. You can check for updates in Settings > General > Software Update.

Enhancing Your iPad Experience

Beyond managing split screen, there are many ways to enhance your overall iPad experience:

Accessories

Consider using accessories to boost your productivity. A keyboard and trackpad (or mouse) can significantly improve your ability to multitask and work on your iPad. A stylus, such as the Apple Pencil, is great for note-taking, drawing, and precise navigation.

Storage Management

Keep your iPad running smoothly by managing your storage. Regularly delete unused apps, photos, and videos to free up space. You can check your storage usage in Settings > General > iPad Storage.

Privacy and Security

Protect your iPad with a strong passcode and enable Face ID or Touch ID for added security. Regularly review your privacy settings in the Settings app.

Software Updates

Keep your iPad up to date with the latest version of iPadOS to ensure you have the latest features, security updates, and bug fixes. Software updates can also improve performance and stability.

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Conclusion

Turning off split screen on your iPad is a straightforward process, and with the methods outlined above, you should be able to easily switch back to single-app view whenever you need. Whether you prefer using the App Switcher, the multitasking menu, or force-closing apps, mastering these techniques will help you manage your iPad more efficiently. Remember to update your iPadOS regularly and explore other multitasking features like Slide Over and Picture in Picture to further optimize your workflow. By understanding these simple steps, you can fully utilize your iPad’s potential, whether you are working, creating, or simply enjoying your favorite apps. Happy iPad-ing!

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