How to snap windows on Windows 11

Complete guide with multiple methods and troubleshooting

7-10 min read
Expert Verified
Last Updated: August 2025

Quick Answer

Snapping windows in Windows 11 allows users to organize their workspace efficiently by positioning multiple windows side by side. This can be accomplished using various methods, including mouse actions and keyboard shortcuts.

Easy⏱ 7-10 min read

Prerequisites & Requirements

Before snapping windows on Windows 11, ensure the following requirements are met:
  • •A device running Windows 11 with the latest updates installed.
  • •Basic knowledge of using a mouse and keyboard.
  • •Administrative access may be required to change certain settings.
  • •No important data needs to be backed up specifically for this action.

Method 1: Using Mouse to Snap Windows

This method is ideal for users who prefer a visual approach to snapping windows.
  • •Step 1: Open the window you want to snap.
  • •Step 2: Click and hold the title bar of the window.
  • •Step 3: Drag the window to the left or right edge of the screen until you see a translucent outline indicating where it will snap.
  • •Step 4: Release the mouse button to snap the window.
  • •Step 5: If successful, the window will occupy half of the screen. You can then select another window to fill the other half.

For Windows 11

Windows 11 introduces enhanced snapping features with Snap Layouts.
  • •When dragging a window, pause at the top of the screen to access Snap Layouts, which allows for more complex arrangements.
  • •Select a layout from the Snap Layouts menu to organize multiple windows.

For Windows 10

Windows 10 supports basic snapping without Snap Layouts.
  • •Simply drag the window to the edge of the screen to snap it without additional layout options.

Method 2: Using Keyboard Shortcuts

This method is useful for users who prefer keyboard shortcuts for efficiency.
  • •Step 1: Select the window you want to snap.
  • •Step 2: Press 'Windows key + Left Arrow' to snap the window to the left side of the screen or 'Windows key + Right Arrow' to snap it to the right.
  • •Step 3: To snap it to the top or bottom, use 'Windows key + Up Arrow' or 'Windows key + Down Arrow' after snapping it to the side.
  • •Step 4: Verify that the window has snapped correctly by checking its position on the screen.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If snapping windows does not work as expected, consider the following solutions:
  • •Error: 'Snap Assist is not working' - Solution: Ensure Snap Assist is enabled by going to Settings > System > Multitasking and toggle on 'Snap windows'.
  • •Issue: Windows do not snap correctly - Fix: Restart your computer to reset the window management service.
  • •Problem: Snapping feature is disabled - Workaround: Check for Windows updates and install any pending updates to restore functionality.

Advanced Tips & Shortcuts

Enhance your productivity with these advanced tips:
  • •Keyboard shortcut: 'Windows key + Z' - Opens Snap Layouts for quick window arrangement.
  • •Command line: No specific command line for snapping, but using PowerToys can enhance window management.
  • •Hidden feature: Use 'Windows key + Shift + Left/Right Arrow' to move a snapped window between monitors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these common pitfalls:

Expert Tips

Using keyboard shortcuts can significantly speed up your workflow when managing multiple windows.