How to get rid of split screen on iPad
Learn proven methods to exit Split View on iPad, troubleshoot persistent split screen, and restore full-screen apps with easy, step-by-step instructions.
To exit split screen on iPad, drag the vertical divider all the way to the screen edge to close the secondary app and return to a single full-screen app. If the divider won’t move, open the App Switcher and swipe away the other app, or use the Dock to re-anchor the primary app to full screen. These gestures work across supported iPadOS versions.
Understanding Split View on iPad
Split View is a core multitasking feature that lets you use two apps side by side on iPad. You’ll see a vertical divider between the two app windows, and you can adjust how much space each window uses. If you’re wondering how to get rid of split screen on ipad, you’re in the right place—the quickest method is usually to collapse the layout by pushing the divider to the edge. The Tablet Info team notes that multitasking is designed to be intuitive, but the exact motions can vary slightly depending on the apps involved and the iPadOS version. The general rule is simple: identify the divider, then either close one app or shift to a single full-screen view. As you get more comfortable, you’ll learn a couple of reliable sequences to restore focus with minimal taps. Keep in mind that some apps handle windowing differently, so a quick test with a second app can help you plan your next steps.
Quick checks before you start
Before you dive into exiting Split View, do a quick sanity check: confirm your iPad supports multitasking in the current iPadOS version, ensure you have two apps open that support multitasking, and verify you have a finger or trackpad handy for the actions. If you’ve updated recently, new gestures or options may appear in the top bar or the multi-tasking menu. In addition, consider whether you want to resolve the layout for the current session or establish a workflow that prevents unwanted splits in the future. Tablet Info analysis suggests that a little preparation—two tested apps, correct gestures, and updated software—gets you back to productivity quickly.
Exiting Split View with gestures
The most common method to get rid of split screen on ipad is a straightforward gesture: locate the vertical divider and drag it toward the edge of the screen. As you approach the edge, the secondary app collapses, and the primary app expands to full screen. If you want the other app to fill the screen instead, reverse the drag toward the opposite edge. You can also try tapping and holding near the top of the secondary app to reveal a handle that can be dragged away, depending on your iPadOS version. For those using a trackpad or mouse, move the cursor to the divider and perform the same action; the interface responds to the pointer just as it does to a finger.
Exiting Split View from the App Switcher
If the divider is unresponsive, use the App Switcher as a reliable fallback. Swipe up from the bottom edge (or double-click the Home button on devices with one) to reveal recent apps. Locate the app you don’t want in Split View and swipe it off the screen. The remaining app stays in full screen. If needed, re-open the other app later by tapping its icon in the Dock or Home Screen. This approach is particularly handy when the divider is sluggish or when you’ve got a lot of apps open.
Returning to full-screen using the Dock and App icons
You can also restore a single-app view by reselecting your preferred app from the Dock and ensuring the second app is dismissed from the Split View. Open the Dock, grab the primary app, and slide it toward the middle of the screen; the secondary app will recede, and the primary app will fill the display. This maneuver can be helpful if you want to quickly re-prioritize which app stays in full screen without dragging the divider repeatedly. Remember that not all app combinations behave identically, so you may see slightly different behavior depending on which apps you are using. As you practice, you’ll find the most reliable path for your typical layouts.
Troubleshooting persistent split screen
Sometimes the divider resists movement due to a temporary UI hiccup or an app’s unusual windowing behavior. Start by ensuring both apps are up to date and that iPadOS is current. If the issue persists, restart the affected apps or reboot the device. You can also reset multitasking preferences by toggling Split View off and back on in Settings > Home Screen & Dock > Multitasking (if available). If the problem only occurs with a specific app, check that app’s settings for any built-in windowing options or try a different app to isolate the issue. For most users, a quick gesture or a panel switch resolves the problem in seconds.
When to use Split View intentionally and accessibility considerations
Split View can boost productivity when you’re cross-referencing information, drafting content, or monitoring data while writing. However, it can be fatiguing if you’re not careful with your layout. If you rely on accessibility features, consider adjusting text size, contrast, and focus features to ensure visibility while multitasking. If you still need full screen for a task, use the steps above to exit Split View cleanly and return to a distraction-free workspace. Tablet Info’s approach emphasizes predictable gestures and reliable app behavior, so you can stay efficient without losing track of your work.
Advanced tips and edge cases
Not every app supports Split View in the same way, and some third-party apps may revert to a single window when you attempt to multitask. If you frequently encounter apps that don’t cooperate with Split View, test a few different app pairs to identify reliable combinations. Also consider Sidecar, external displays, or picture-in-picture modes for more complex workflows. If you’re using a keyboard or trackpad, familiarize yourself with the multitasking shortcuts—these can significantly speed up toggling between single- and multi-app layouts. In rare cases, a full reset (Settings → General → Reset) may be necessary, but this should be a last resort after backing up data.
Tools & Materials
- iPad with multitasking support(Ensure iPadOS supports Split View)
- Two apps that support multitasking(Open two compatible apps you want to test)
- Touch surface or trackpad(Use finger or pointer to drag the divider)
- Optional: external keyboard(Helpful for keyboard navigation and shortcuts)
Steps
Estimated time: 8-12 minutes
- 1
Identify the split view layout
Look for the vertical divider between two app windows. Confirm you are in Split View and decide which app you want to keep in full screen.
Tip: Note the handle position; a stable divider helps predict how the UI will react when moved. - 2
Drag the divider to the edge
Place a finger on the divider and drag it toward the left or right edge until the second app collapses and the first app fills the screen.
Tip: Keep a steady pace; a jerky motion can cause the divider to misbehave temporarily. - 3
Use the App Switcher if needed
If dragging fails, swipe up from the bottom to open the App Switcher and swipe away the other app.
Tip: This is a reliable fallback on older iPadOS versions. - 4
Verify full-screen restoration
Return to the home screen or open a new app to ensure you are back in full-screen mode.
Tip: Test by launching a third app to confirm layout behavior. - 5
Re-enter Split View when needed
If you need two apps again, drag a second app from the Dock or open two apps side by side by dragging from the edge.
Tip: Practice a couple of layouts to speed up future tasks. - 6
Troubleshoot persistent issues
If the divider remains unresponsive, close both apps and relaunch, or restart your iPad.
Tip: Persistent issues may indicate a bug that warrants an update check.
Questions & Answers
What is Split View?
Split View is a multitasking feature that shows two apps side by side. You can adjust the divider or close one app to return to a single full-screen view.
Split View lets you run two apps at once. You can close one to go back to a single screen.
How do I exit Split View quickly?
Drag the vertical divider to the screen edge to collapse one app, or use the App Switcher to remove the other app from view.
Drag the divider to the edge or use the App Switcher to remove the other app.
Can I use Split View with an external display?
Yes, some multitasking configurations adapt when an external display is connected. Behavior can vary by app and iPadOS version.
External displays can work with multitasking, but it depends on the app and iPadOS.
Divider not responding?
If the divider is sticky, try the App Switcher to remove one app, then reopen the one you want in full screen. Ensure both apps support multitasking.
If the divider sticks, use the App Switcher to close one app and retry.
Will closing an app erase data?
Closing an app from Split View does not erase data already saved in that app. Always save work before closing multiple apps.
Closing an app in Split View won’t erase saved data; save often.
How do I re-enter Split View after closing?
Open the two desired apps side by side again by dragging from the Dock or launching them in Split View mode from the home screen.
Re-enter Split View by opening two apps side by side again.
Watch Video
Highlights
- Exit Split View by dragging the divider to the edge.
- Use the App Switcher as a reliable fallback.
- Test with different apps to learn reliable patterns.
- Keep iPadOS updated for the best multitasking experience.
