The Best iPad Tips and Tricks

Apple’s tablet may look like a super-sized iPhone, but it has unique features even the most seasoned iOS veteran should learn. Here are the top hidden iPad features.

  1. Split Screen Multitasking: Swipe up from the bottom of the screen to open the Dock, then drag an app to the left or right edge of the screen to activate Split View multitasking.
  2. Quick App Switching: To quickly switch between apps, swipe left or right along the bottom edge of the screen with four fingers.
  3. Screenshot Markup: After taking a screenshot by pressing the Home and Power buttons simultaneously, tap the screenshot preview that appears in the bottom left corner to enter markup mode where you can annotate the screenshot.
  4. Quick Access to Control Center: Swipe down from the top-right corner of the screen to access Control Center, where you can toggle settings like Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, brightness, and volume.
  5. Picture-in-Picture (PiP): Watch videos or make FaceTime calls in a floating window while using other apps. Simply tap the PiP icon in supported apps, or press the Home button while watching a video.
  6. Customize Widgets: Long-press on the home screen to enter jiggle mode, then tap the «+» button in the top left corner to add widgets for quick access to information from your favorite apps.
  7. Keyboard Shortcuts: Learn keyboard shortcuts for iPad apps like Command + C for copy, Command + V for paste, Command + Z for undo, and Command + Shift + 3 for screenshot.
  8. Drag and Drop: You can easily drag and drop text, images, and files between apps by tapping and holding on the item until it lifts off, then dragging it to the desired location.
  9. Access Control Center: Swipe down from the top-right corner of the screen (for iPads without a Home button) or swipe up from the bottom (for iPads with a Home button) to access the Control Center.
  10. Customize Widget Size: Choose from different widget sizes to display the right amount of information.
  11. QuickType Keyboard: Swipe down on the keys on the iPad’s virtual keyboard to enable QuickType, which allows you to input numbers and symbols without switching to the dedicated keyboard layout.
  12. Handwritten Notes: Use the Apple Pencil to take handwritten notes in apps like Notes or Pages. Simply tap the screen with the Apple Pencil to start writing.
  13. Dark Mode: Enable Dark Mode by going to Settings > Display & Brightness > Appearance and selecting Dark. This reduces eye strain, especially in low-light environments.
  14. Calculator and Conversions: Type in simple math equations or unit conversions directly into Spotlight for instant results.
  15. Markup: Use the Apple Pencil to mark up screenshots, PDFs, and photos. Just take a screenshot, and tap the thumbnail that appears in the corner to start annotating.

These tricks should help you get more out of your iPad experience!

The iPad is a powerful and versatile device that can do much more than you might realize. Whether you’re a new iPad owner or a seasoned user, there are always new tips and tricks to discover that can enhance your productivity, creativity, and overall experience.