desktop only shows 1 window at a time

[knowledgenomad]

I'm running 10.10.2 on a 27" Mac, which makes this problem doubly frustrating. I open an application (say, Safari) and it works fine. Then I open another application like Excel. The first open application (Safari) returns to the dock and then Excel opens. Obviously, I'd like to have both open at the same time and view them at the same time on the desktop. I have been all over the internet and posted this issue on apple support forums, but I can't get an answer from any source. How do I solve this problem -- able to view multiple apps on the desktop at one time??
Nick

PS. I do have a dual monitor setup (again, imagine my frustration). The problem remains the same, even if I move an app to the second monitor. Open another app, and the first app is replaced by the second app. Help!!!

 

[simonsi]

Sounds like the apps are opening full-screen.

 

[w0lf]

defaults write com.apple.dock single-app -bool false; killall Dock

 

[knowledgenomad]

Apps not running full screen

No app is running full screen -- actually, sized about 1/4 to 1/2 screen

----------

defaults write com.apple.dock single-app -bool false; killall Dock

I prostrate my unworthy self at the foot of your infinite wisdom. Thank you, thank you, thank you. You have done more for my mood than any stiff drink could!

 

[simonsi]

No app is running full screen -- actually, sized about 1/4 to 1/2 screen

----------




I prostrate my unworthy self at the foot of your infinite wisdom. Thank you, thank you, thank you. You have done more for my mood than any stiff drink could!

How did you manage to set that on? Must be some odd setting somewhere??

 

[dyt1983]

How did you manage to set that on? Must be some odd setting somewhere??

At some point he probably accidentally just typed "defaults write com.apple.dock single-app -bool true"

 

[simonsi]

at some point he probably accidentally just typed "defaults write com.apple.dock single-app -bool true"

lol :d

 

[chown33]

Here's an article on the feature:
https://tidbits.com/article/10624


I think there are some utility apps that will set this on/off.