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How to Move a Window Between Two Monitors in Microsoft 365

Maira Mehtab Sep 22, 2026 869 views

Question details

The user needs to learn how to quickly move Microsoft 365 application windows (such as Excel or Word) from one monitor to another on an extended desktop setup without having to manually resize or drag them.

Product: Microsoft 365
Device & OS: Windows
Scenario: Working on a Windows PC with a dual-monitor or multi-monitor extended desktop configuration.
Observed behavior: The user wants to efficiently transfer active application windows to an adjacent display to improve multitasking productivity.

Before you start

Ensure your computer is securely connected to a second monitor and that your Windows display settings are configured to 'Extend these displays' rather than 'Duplicate'.

Solution 1Recommended

Use Windows Keyboard Shortcuts to Move the Window

The fastest and most efficient way to move an active application window to another screen is by utilizing built-in Windows shortcut keys.

Windows offers a native keyboard shortcut that instantly shifts any active window to an adjacent monitor. This method retains the window's current size state—whether it is windowed or fully maximized—saving you from having to drag and drop elements manually.

Select the target window

Click anywhere inside the Microsoft 365 application window (such as an Excel spreadsheet) to ensure it is the active, in-focus window.

Press the shortcut combination

Press and hold the 'Windows' key and the 'Shift' key on your keyboard simultaneously.

Choose the direction

While holding Windows + Shift, tap the 'Left Arrow' key to instantly move the window to the left monitor, or the 'Right Arrow' key to move it to the right monitor.

Pro Tip: This shortcut is a system-wide Windows feature. It works flawlessly for almost all applications and browsers, not just Microsoft 365 programs.

Manage Multiple Documents Efficiently

Handle Multi-Monitor Workflows Easily with WPS Office

WPS Office perfectly supports extended desktop setups and multi-window productivity. You can easily detach document tabs to split them into independent windows, and utilize Windows shortcuts to move them effortlessly between your screens.

1. Open multiple files: Launch WPS Office and open the various documents, spreadsheets, or presentations you wish to work on.
2. Tear off a document tab: Click and drag a document tab downwards from the top navigation bar to detach it into a new, independent window.
3. Move to the second monitor: Click on the newly detached WPS window to make it active, then press Windows + Shift + Left/Right Arrow to instantly snap it to your adjacent screen.
4. Work seamlessly across displays: Edit your separated documents simultaneously across both of your extended displays for maximum productivity.

Fully compatible with Microsoft Office document formats including DOCX, XLSX, and PPTX.Convenient tear-off tabs to easily view multiple documents side-by-side on different monitors.Lightweight application architecture optimized for smooth multi-monitor setups.A free, high-performance alternative to Microsoft 365.

microsoft office alternative - wps office

Frequently Asked Questions

Why aren't the shortcut keys working to move my window?

If the Windows + Shift + Arrow keys aren't moving the window, first right-click your desktop and select 'Display settings' to confirm your monitors are set to 'Extend these displays'. The shortcut will not work if the displays are duplicated. Also, ensure the window you are trying to move is currently active by clicking on it first.

Can I move a fully maximized window between monitors?

Yes. Using the Windows + Shift + Left/Right Arrow shortcut will move a maximized or full-screen window directly to the adjacent monitor, and it will remain fully maximized on the new screen.

How do I enable an extended desktop setup in Windows?

To set up an extended desktop, right-click on an empty area of your desktop and select 'Display settings'. Scroll down to the 'Multiple displays' section, click the drop-down menu, and select 'Extend these displays'. Keep the changes to apply.

Does this keyboard shortcut work for Mac users?

No, the Windows + Shift + Arrow key combination is exclusive to Windows operating systems. On macOS, users typically move windows between displays by dragging the window's title bar across the screen edge or by using third-party window management software.

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