By Suzana 
Key Takeaways
- Use multitasking features like Split View and Slide Over to work on multiple apps at once.
- Master keyboard shortcuts with a physical keyboard to speed up your workflow.
- Organize your home screen and use the App Library to find apps quickly.
- Use the Apple Pencil for handwriting and drawing, and use Scribble to write directly in text fields.
iPad Tips to Keep You Productive
The iPad is no longer just a media consumption device; with its powerful hardware and versatile software, it has become a true productivity tool. Whether you use it for work, school, or creative projects, there are many features that can help you get more done in less time. This article will provide you with some practical iPad tips that will help you work smarter and stay productive. By making a few small changes to how you use your iPad, you can significantly improve your workflow and efficiency.
These tips will help you take advantage of the iPad’s unique capabilities, from its touch-based interface to its powerful multitasking features. You’ll be surprised at how much you can do with this device when you know the right tricks.
Master Multitasking Features
One of the most powerful features on the iPad is its ability to multitask. This allows you to work on multiple apps at the same time, which is a huge advantage for productivity. Split View lets you have two apps open side by side. You can use this to take notes while reading an article, or to reference a spreadsheet while writing an email. To use it, simply drag an app from the Dock to the side of the screen. You can also adjust the size of each app by dragging the divider in the middle.
Another great multitasking tool is Slide Over. This feature allows you to have a third app floating on top of your main app or Split View. It’s perfect for quick tasks like sending a message, checking your calendar, or using a calculator without leaving what you’re working on. To use it, drag an app from the Dock to the center of the screen and drop it. You can move the floating app to either side of the screen or swipe it off and bring it back later. Using these features together can help you streamline your workflow and avoid constantly switching between apps.
Speed Up Your Workflow with a Keyboard
While the on-screen keyboard is great, a physical keyboard is essential for serious productivity. The iPad’s software is designed to work seamlessly with an external keyboard, and mastering the shortcuts can save you a lot of time. Many of the keyboard shortcuts you know from your computer work on the iPad. For example, Command + C and Command + V for copy and paste, or Command + T for a new tab in Safari.
You can also use the Command key to see all the available shortcuts in any app. Just press and hold the Command key, and a list of shortcuts for that app will appear on the screen. This makes it easy to learn new shortcuts as you go. You can also use the keyboard to quickly switch between apps. For instance, holding down the Command key and pressing the Tab key will bring up a list of your open apps, just like on a Mac. This is a much faster way to move between apps than using the App Switcher.
Organize Your Home Screen and Use the App Library
A cluttered home screen can be a major roadblock to productivity. When you can’t find the app you need, you waste time and lose your train of thought. Take some time to organize your home screen so that your most-used apps are front and center. You can group related apps into folders to keep things tidy. For example, you could have a folder for “Work” that contains your email, calendar, and document apps.
The iPad’s App Library is another powerful tool for keeping things organized. It automatically sorts all your apps into categories, so you don’t need to have every app on your home screen. You can swipe left past your last home screen page to access it. You can also use the search bar at the top to find any app instantly. By using the App Library, you can keep your home screen clean and simple, which makes it easier to focus on your work. It’s a great way to have all your apps available without feeling overwhelmed by a lot of icons.
Put the Apple Pencil to Work
If you have an Apple Pencil, you can use it to do a lot more than just draw. The Apple Pencil is a fantastic tool for taking notes and marking up documents. In the Notes app, you can write and draw naturally, and your handwriting can even be converted to text. You can also use the Apple Pencil to sign documents or highlight text in a PDF. This is much faster and more accurate than using your finger.
One of the most useful features is Scribble. With Scribble, you can write directly in any text field, and your handwriting will be converted into typed text. This works in Safari’s address bar, in email, and in any other text field. It’s a great way to take quick notes without having to put down your pencil. You can also use it to delete text by simply scribbling over the word you want to remove. The Apple Pencil can make a lot of tasks feel more natural and intuitive, which helps you stay in a productive flow.