Why and How to View Multiple Screens

In 2008, a new work assignment came with a desktop computer and two attached monitors. It took me all of ten minutes to realize how much more productive I would be with two screens. It didn't take me long to add that second monitor to my home computer. 

Genealogical research and other tasks are much easier with the second screen. 

I put my research log or family tree software on one screen and look for family on the other screen. 

I can watch a webinar on one screen and follow along on the other. 

During a Zoom meeting, the presenter's handout or other important meeting information is on my second screen.  

When cleaning up files or completing other mundane tasks, I might have Netflix running on my second screen. 

Using two screens makes it so much easier to cut and paste between multiple documents, and I can stretch a large spreadsheet or map across both screens so that all can be seen.

I like having my two monitors and doubt that I will ever go back to one, but you do not have to have two monitors to view multiple screens. Most of the tasks I complete with two monitors can be done easily by just splitting your screen. 

Visit the links below to learn how to split your screens or connect additional monitors. 

This screen is split into three sections so I can view FamilySearch, my Family Tree Maker application, and a Word document.
With Windows 11's features, this is easily done. 

Split Your Screen

 How To Use Split Screen On Windows 10

 

How To Split Screen In Windows 11

 

How to use Split View on Mac

 

Open two items in Split View on iPad

Using Multiple Monitors

 

If you have desk space, you may want to use multiple monitors (usually two). This can be the costliest option. Try a desktop with multiple (usually two) monitors or a laptop with an extra monitor. No additional software is needed, and once set up, you can drag applications from one screen to another. Your mouse simply moves between the two screens as if you were using one large screen.

 

How To Connect A Laptop To A Monitor (Windows 10 or a MacBook)

 

How to set up two monitors for double the screen real estate (Windows)

 

Connect one or more external displays with your Mac 

If you want to know about the families I research, click here to like my Facebook page, where you will see each post and other genealogical finds. 

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Diana

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