Others

How to Display Combination Views in Microsoft Project

Camila Milosovich Sep 30, 2026 869 views

Question details

The user needs to display multiple views simultaneously, such as a Gantt Chart and Task Form, using a combination or split view in Microsoft Project desktop.

How to Display Combination Views in Microsoft Project

Product: Microsoft Project
Device & OS: not provided
Scenario: Managing project tasks and needing to view both high-level timelines and detailed task or resource information on the same screen.
Observed behavior: The user wants to configure the workspace to show a split screen or custom combination view.

Before you start

Ensure you have Microsoft Project desktop installed and a project file with populated tasks and resources open before attempting to split the view.

Solution 1Recommended

Enable Split View from the View Tab

The quickest way to see two views at once is by using the built-in Show Split feature on the ribbon.

This method is ideal for quickly bringing up the Task Form alongside your standard Gantt Chart to view detailed resource assignments without losing sight of the project timeline.

Apply the Gantt Chart view

Open your project file and ensure your primary workspace is set to the default Gantt Chart view.

Select Show Split

Navigate to the 'View' tab on the ribbon. In the 'Split View' group, check the box labeled 'Details' or click 'Show Split' (depending on your specific version of Microsoft Project).

Quick Tip: You can change the bottom view by clicking anywhere inside it to make it active, and then selecting a different view from the View tab.

Solution 2

Use the Right-Click Context Menu

You can instantly toggle the split workspace using a right-click shortcut within the Gantt Chart.

Solution 3

Create a Custom Combination View

If you frequently need specific views paired together (like Task Usage and Resource Graph), you can create and save a custom combination view.

Free Microsoft Office alternative

Manage Projects Efficiently with WPS Office

While Microsoft Project is an excellent tool for highly complex tasks, WPS Office offers a free, lightweight, and highly compatible alternative for general project management. Use WPS Spreadsheet to easily build project timelines, track progress, and create robust Gantt charts without the heavy cost.

Completely free and lightweight alternative to heavy Microsoft Office subscriptions.Highly compatible with Microsoft Excel formats (.xlsx) for Gantt chart templates.Familiar, tabbed user interface ensures a seamless migration with zero learning curve.Access to thousands of free built-in templates for project management and task tracking.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I remove the split view in Microsoft Project?

To remove the split view and return to a single screen, simply uncheck the 'Details' or 'Show Split' box in the View tab. You can also double-click the split line that separates the top and bottom views to instantly close the bottom panel.

Can I change the bottom view in a combination view?

Yes, once the screen is split, click anywhere in the bottom pane to make it the active view. Then, go to the View tab and select a new view, such as Resource Form, Task Notes, or Task Usage, to replace the default Task Form.

Why is the Show Split option grayed out?

The split option might be grayed out if you are currently in a view that doesn't support splitting (like certain timeline-only views) or if a dialog box is currently open. Ensure you are in a standard view like the Gantt Chart and close any active dialogs.

Are custom combination views saved automatically?

Yes, when you create a new custom combination view, it is saved within your active project file. If you want it available across all future projects, you can use the Organizer tool to copy it to your Global.mpt template file.

Office Quick Solutions