Mirror or Extend Your Display in macOS

Questions

  • How do I extend or mirror my macOS desktop to another display?
  • What are the steps to set up multiple displays on macOS?
  • How do I connect a second monitor to my Mac?
  • How do I make my external display show the same thing as my Mac screen?
  • How do I use an external monitor as extra workspace on my Mac?
  • How do I arrange the position of my displays in macOS?

Environment

This article applies to anyone using a Mac running macOS Sequoia (15.x) or Tahoe (26.x) who wants to either extend their desktop to another screen or mirror their screen to another display.

Resolution

  1. Connect the display: Connect your additional display to your Mac using an appropriate cable or wireless method. Ensure both devices are turned on.
  2. Open System Settings: Click the Apple menu in the top-left corner of your screen and select System Settings.
  3. Access Displays settings: In the System Settings window, choose Displays from the sidebar. This shows the settings for your connected displays.
  4. Select the arrangement: In the Displays settings, choose how the second display should behave:
    • Extend display: Drag and drop the display icon to position it relative to your main screen. This creates an additional workspace.
    • Mirror display: To have both displays show the same content, select the Mirror Displays option. This duplicates your main screen onto the connected display.
  5. Adjust settings: Fine-tune each display's resolution and other settings by selecting the specific display and adjusting the options provided.
  6. Close settings: Once your displays are configured, close the System Settings window. Your changes are saved automatically.

Additional Help

If you need further assistance, you have several options:

  • Bowdoin Bot: Chat with Bowdoin Bot directly from any KB page for instant answers.
  • Phone: Call the Bowdoin College Service Desk at (207) 725-3030.
  • In person: Visit the Tech Hub in Smith Union during business hours.
  • Submit a ticket: Request assistance through the Service Catalog.