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How can I switch desktops on built-in display and external monitor independently?

Hello!


I have been using an external monitor (E20 display) with my MacBook Air (13-inch, early 2015; macOS Catalina, 10.15.7) for the past several years. When I first used it, I could switch between different desktops on either the main (built-in) screen or the external monitor independently of each other. Specifically, if my pointer was on the main screen, and I moved to a different desktop, the desktop on the external monitor would stay the same and the one on my main screen would change (and vice versa--if my pointer was on the monitor screen and I swiped to switch desktops, the desktop on the main screen wouldn't change). Moreover, when I wanted to move a desktop from one screen to the other, I could press f5 and drag the desktop to the desired screen.


At some point, I was unable to do this anymore. The main screen and monitor no longer act independently of each other--when I swipe to switch to a different desktop, whether my pointer is in the main screen or the monitor, the desktop changes on both screens.


I still connected the computer to the monitor the same way and I did not change the display options. I tried searching online for a way to change the display settings back to the way they used to be but was unsuccessful.


I apologize if I am not using the proper terminology! I hope you understand what I am trying to say.


I would appreciate any input you have on this issue! Thank you so much ☺

Posted on Oct 10, 2021 9:46 AM

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Posted on Oct 10, 2021 11:36 AM

I have finally found the reason why I was having this issue--it was due to changes in System Preferences > Mission Control that must have occurred after the software update months ago.


To fix this, I checked the box for "Displays have separate Spaces".


The issue has been resolved at last! I am sorry to post this only to find the answer so soon after, but I don't think I can delete the post. It is ironic that I have been attempting to find the solution for so long and just figured it out. In any case, I am thankful! ☺

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Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Oct 10, 2021 11:36 AM in response to broken-toaster

I have finally found the reason why I was having this issue--it was due to changes in System Preferences > Mission Control that must have occurred after the software update months ago.


To fix this, I checked the box for "Displays have separate Spaces".


The issue has been resolved at last! I am sorry to post this only to find the answer so soon after, but I don't think I can delete the post. It is ironic that I have been attempting to find the solution for so long and just figured it out. In any case, I am thankful! ☺

How can I switch desktops on built-in display and external monitor independently?

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