Windows Snap is a powerful, native feature found on most Windows PCs that simplifies the organization of your on-screen applications. It allows a user to precisely position applications on their monitor for optimal viewing. By utilizing preset layouts and keyboard shortcuts, you can instantly create a multi-window workspace that boosts overall multitasking efficiency.
When overlaying content with a studio from Revolution, preparation and placement matter. That’s where Windows Snap comes in. It's a quick, helpful tool for all One Button, Lightboard, and dScribe Studio users. See more in the video & steps below:
The Problem: Content Overlap
When working with everyday sources that are either very busy or don't have a solid black background, often you want to shift the content to the side so you as the presenter are still fully visible. If you’re a right-handed presenter, you likely want that content shifted to the right side of the screen and vice versa for left-handed individuals. Position the windows of your content in a spot to allow you to stand comfortably beside it, maintaining clear visibility for your audience. As a fun example of content where this can be very helpful, check out the PhET Simulations from the University of Colorado Boulder.
The Solution: 3 Ways to "Snap" Your Windows
1. Keyboard Shortcut: The quickest method utilizes a keyboard shortcut. To instantly snap a window to the right, simply press and hold the Windows Key and hit the Right Arrow. Left-handed presenters may prefer to send content instead to their left using the Left Arrow.
Starting in Windows 11, you also have two mouse-driven alternatives:
2. Drag and Drop: Click the top bar of your window and push it directly up until location options appear, then drag and drop the window on the desired layout spot. Windows calls these "Snap Layouts"
3. Maximize Hover: Hover your cursor over the Maximize icon (the square) in the top right of a window. A preview of the snap layouts will appear and you can click on the screen location you want the window to move to.
Why It Matters
By using Windows Snap with the dScribe & Lightboard Studios, you can ensure your non-black overlay windows go exactly where you need them. This gives you the freedom to stand next to your content, interact with your viewers, and keep your presentation looking clean and intentional.
While we demonstrated this in the dScribe Studio, remember - this feature works on any Windows 10 or Windows 11 computer. Give it a try today! Let us know what questions you have.
BONUS: There are some Windows settings that allow you to customize part of these experiencing. Access these by searching in the Start bar for "Multitasking". In particular, some users prefer to uncheck the box for When I snap a window, show what I can snap next to it as that tends to present more of an annoyance than a help.
