iPad multitasking has three main modes: Split View, Slide Over, and Stage Manager. Each is useful in different situations. Instructions apply to recent iPadOS versions.

Split View

Split View shows two apps side by side.

  1. Open the first app.
  2. Swipe up to reveal the Dock.
  3. Touch and hold a second app icon.
  4. Drag it to the left or right edge of the screen.
  5. Release when the screen highlights.

Drag the divider to change the ratio.

Slide Over

Slide Over keeps a second app in a small floating pane.

  1. Open an app.
  2. Open the Dock.
  3. Drag a second app onto the screen without going to the edge.
  4. Swipe the small pane to the right to hide it.

Stage Manager

Stage Manager shows overlapping windows on a single screen.

  1. Open Control Center.
  2. Tap the Stage Manager icon.
  3. Drag windows freely and group them in the sidebar.
  4. Connect an external display for more space.

Stage Manager is available on iPads with M-series chips and on some recent iPad Air and iPad Pro models.

Drag and Drop Between Apps

  • Touch and hold a photo in Photos.
  • Drag it into Notes or Mail without releasing.
  • Drop it where you want it.

Keyboard Shortcuts

  • Cmd + Tab: app switcher.
  • Cmd + N: new window in supported apps.
  • Cmd + W: close a window.

When to Use Which Mode

  • Split View: research and writing side by side.
  • Slide Over: quick reference while working in a main app.
  • Stage Manager: several windows and external displays.

Takeaway

Start with Split View. Once you are comfortable, add Slide Over and Stage Manager based on your workflow.