Chrome Split View: Streamline Your USD Workflow

Google Chrome's new Split View feature allows users to view two tabs side by side in a single window — a simple update that offers significant benefits for University of San Diego faculty, students and staff.

Professors can keep Canvas open alongside course materials, review student work while accessing rubrics or write papers while viewing source materials — all without constant tab-switching that slows productivity and increases cognitive load.

Students can view lecture notes while completing assignments, keep textbook readings visible while writing papers or watch recorded lectures while taking notes. For research papers, having sources displayed alongside writing platforms makes citation checking seamless and maintains focus.

Staff members juggling multiple university systems can cross-reference data between spreadsheets and databases, monitor email while updating records or manage event planning documents alongside calendars — streamlining administrative workflows and reducing mental fatigue.

Getting Started

Right-click any tab and select "New split view with current tab." A draggable divider lets you customize the layout, and toolbar controls allow quick pane swapping or separation. If unavailable, enable it at chrome://flags by searching "Split View."

Why It Matters

Research shows that reducing window switching decreases cognitive load and improves focus. For a university community that relies on multiple web-based platforms daily, Split View removes friction from digital work and delivers immediate productivity gains.