Mac: Arrange windows automatically - is that possible?

You can also sort windows on your Mac for a better overview: From OS X Lion onwards, the "Mission Control" means are available for this. This practical tip shows you what you can do with it:

Mac: Arrange windows automatically with Mission Control

To access Mission Control:

1. Using the (Apple) keyboard: Press the [F3] key or the key combination [fn] and [F9].
2. Via mouse or trackpad: Use two fingers to tap the mouse or trackpad twice in a row. If this function is not available, check under "System settings" -> "Mouse" or "Trackpad" whether the corresponding checkboxes are activated under the "Additional gestures" option.
3. You will now see an overview of all open windows and virtual desktops. Click on the corresponding symbols to bring the respective application to the foreground.

Mac: Assign a program window to a virtual desktop

If you have many programs open, it can quickly become confusing on a desktop. However, this is not a problem because you can create multiple virtual desktops in Mission Control:

1. Open Mission Control and move the mouse to the top right corner - a pale desktop window will appear.
2. Once you click this window, Mission Control will add a new virtual desktop. Repeat this step as needed for desktops.
3. Now drag the program window to the desired desktop and then release the mouse button. The program is now assigned to the virtual desktop.
4. Alternatively, you can also drag the corresponding program symbol directly to the top right while holding the mouse button down. As soon as the new desktop window appears, release the mouse button.

Move programs between virtual desktops

1. Open Mission Control and click on the desktop from which you want to remove the application.
2. Bring the relevant program to the foreground and call Mission Control again.
3. Now simply drag the program to the desired desktop - you will now find the program in its new location.

Switch between virtual desktops

1. Open Mission Control and click the appropriate desktop icon.
2. The desktop opens and all windows are available.
3. Use the key combination [fn] and [F10] to get an overview of all open windows of this desktop.
4. If you want to switch to another desktop, press [fn] and [F9] and select a different desktop with a simple click.
5. Alternatively, you can use the swipe gesture to the left or right to switch directly between the desktops without having to call up Mission Control.

This practical tip shows you how to create shortcuts (aliases) under Mac OS X.