How to Close Apps in Split View Mode on iPad and Mac

Split View is a powerful multitasking feature on Apple devices, letting you run two apps side-by-side for tasks like research, note-taking, or data comparison. But knowing how to efficiently close Split View is just as important for reclaiming your screen space and focus. Here’s a quick and simple guide for both iPad and Mac.

What is Split View?

On iPad: It splits the screen into two adjustable panels, allowing two apps to run simultaneously.
On Mac: It places two apps side-by-side in a dedicated full-screen space, minimizing distractions.

This functionality is perfect for boosting productivity, but closing it should be effortless.

How to Close Split View on an iPad

You have several intuitive ways to exit Split View on your iPad.

1. Drag the Divider Bar (The Fastest Way)

Locate the vertical divider bar between the two apps.
Tap and drag this bar all the way to the left or right edge of the screen.
The app on the side you drag towards will close, and the other will expand to fill the screen.

2. Use the Three-Dot Menu

Tap the three-dot menu at the top of either app window.
From the menu that appears, select Full Screen.
This will exit Split View, making the app you selected full-screen and moving the other app to the background.

3. Swipe Up from the Bottom (App Switcher)

Swipe up from the bottom edge of the screen to open the App Switcher.
Find the card that shows both apps in Split View.
Swipe up on that card to close both apps completely.

How to Close Split View on a Mac

Exiting Split View on a Mac is equally straightforward.

1. Use the Green Full-Screen Button

Move your cursor to the top-left corner of either window.
Hover over the green traffic light button.
From the dropdown menu, select Exit Full Screen.
Both apps will return to their own individual windows on your desktop.

2. Use Mission Control

Swipe up with three or four fingers on your trackpad or press the F3 (Mission Control) key.
You will see your Split View space at the top of the screen.
Hover your cursor over this space and click the close button (X) that appears in the top-left corner to exit the entire Split View session.

3. Drag an App Out of the View

Open Mission Control.
Simply click and drag one of the apps out of the Split View space at the top and onto your main desktop. The remaining app will fill the screen.

Pro Tips for Mastering Split View

Quick Activation: On Mac, drag a window’s green button to the left or right to snap it into place and choose a second app. On iPad, drag an app from the Dock to the screen’s edge.
Check Compatibility: Not all iPad apps support Split View. If an app doesn’t work, it may need an update or doesn’t have this feature.
Boost Performance: If multitasking feels slow, try closing unused apps or restarting your device.

Summary: Exit Split View Quickly

iPad: Drag the center divider, use the three-dot menu, or swipe up in the App Switcher.
Mac: Click the green button and select “Exit Full Screen,” or use Mission Control to close the space.

Mastering these simple steps ensures you can seamlessly transition between focused single-tasking and powerful multitasking, making the most of your Apple device’s capabilities.