How to toggle between split layout with multiple editors and just one editor using the full screen in vscode?

Question

After working in a multiple column layout it is nice to be able to focus on one file momentarily using the entire application space. Then, returning to a column view.

In Slick-Edit this is Window / Zoom Toggle.

In VSCode, moving between multiple columns to 1, and then back to multiple loses editor groupings.

Answer 1

My approach for this scenario is using CMD+KO to Open Active File in New Window. If you close the window the file will still be present in your editor group.

There are some hiccups: I prefer a maximized window over full screen mode, but that will open a new, non-maximized window. In full screen you can prevent that, but will have to use CMD+W twice to get back to original view.

Answer 2

There is a command called "Toggle Maximize Editor Group" that will toggle whether the current editor group is maximized.

By default it is bound to Ctrl+K Ctrl+M on Windows. I assume Mac would use Cmd+K Cmd+M.

It is also available in the kebab menu of each editor group ("Maximize Group"):

When a group is maximized, the command changes to "Unmaximize group" and a little activated action button is added to the group's toolbar: