Using the split screen feature can greatly enhance multitasking ability. This feature lets you display multiple applications or windows simultaneously, increasing your productivity and efficiency. One widely used video conferencing tool offering split screen functionality is Zoom. In this piece, I will walk you through the steps of setting up split screen on Zoom, and share my own insights and thoughts.
Step 1: Install the Zoom Desktop App
The first step is to download and install the Zoom desktop app from the official website. The app is available for both Windows and Mac operating systems. Once downloaded, double-click the installer file and follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation.
Step 2: Launch Zoom and Sign In
After the installation is complete, launch the Zoom app and sign in with your Zoom account credentials. If you don’t have an account, you can create one for free on the Zoom website. Once signed in, you will have access to all the features and settings of Zoom.
Step 3: Start a Meeting
To use the split screen functionality in Zoom, you need to start a meeting. You can do this by clicking on the “New Meeting” button on the Zoom app’s home screen. This will create a new meeting with you as the host.
Step 4: Invite Participants
Once the meeting has started, you can invite participants by clicking on the “Invite” button at the bottom of the Zoom app window. You can invite participants by email, through a Zoom meeting link, or by copying the meeting invitation and sharing it with them. Make sure to give them a heads up about the split screen setup we’re about to do!
Step 5: Enable Split Screen
Now comes the exciting part – enabling split screen in Zoom. To do this, click on the “Share Screen” button located at the bottom of the Zoom app window. A menu will appear with different screen sharing options. Select the screen or application you want to share with your participants.
Pro Tip:
Before sharing your screen, make sure to close any unnecessary applications or windows to avoid cluttering the split screen view. You want to keep your focus sharp and distractions to a minimum.
Step 6: Arrange the Split Screen Layout
After selecting the screen or application you want to share, Zoom will automatically enter the split screen mode. By default, Zoom will divide the screen into two equal parts, with your shared content on one side and a gallery view of participants on the other side.
Personal Touch:
I find this layout quite useful as it allows me to see both the shared content and the reactions of the participants simultaneously. It enhances the collaboration experience and makes it easier to engage with everyone involved.
Step 7: Customize the Split Screen Layout
If you prefer a different split screen layout, Zoom provides customization options. To access these options, hover your mouse over the top of the Zoom app window while in split screen mode. A menu bar will appear with various layout options. Choose the layout that best suits your needs.
Pro Tip:
Experiment with different layout options to find the one that works best for you. Everyone’s preferences and workflows are different, so don’t hesitate to explore and make adjustments as needed.
Conclusion
Split screen functionality in Zoom is a fantastic feature that enhances collaboration and productivity during video conferences. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can easily set up and customize the split screen layout to suit your preferences. So go ahead, try it out, and make the most out of your Zoom meetings!