The iPad is one of the most flexible devices you can own. From streaming shows to replacing a laptop, it can do far more than most people realize.
Whether you are a student, a professional, or someone who just loves using tech for fun, there are countless ways to make your iPad work smarter for you.
With the right tips, you can unlock hidden features, boost performance, and personalize it to fit your lifestyle.
If you are ready to take your iPad skills to the next level, read on for the best iPad tips and tricks in 2025.
First Things To Do When You Get a New iPad
Getting started the right way helps your iPad run smoothly for years. A few setup steps will make it secure, efficient, and ready for anything.
Set Up Security and Privacy
- ✅ Enable Face ID or Touch ID for quick and safe unlocking
- ✅ Add a strong passcode to protect your data
Customize Control Center
- ✅ Add shortcuts like screen recording, low power mode, or notes
- ✅ Access your most-used tools with a single swipe
Adjust Display and Battery Settings
- ✅ Turn on True Tone for comfortable viewing
- ✅ Lower brightness to extend battery life
- ✅ Set auto-lock to save power
📌 If your iPad gets warm while setting up, check out how to keep iPads cool for easy solutions.
Productivity Power Moves: iPad Tips and Tricks for Work and Study
Your iPad can double as a true productivity machine. With the right tricks, it can even take the place of a laptop for many tasks.
Master Multitasking
- ✅ Use Split View to run two apps side by side
- ✅ Try Slide Over to quickly peek at a third app
Use Apple Pencil Smartly
- ✅ Take handwritten notes in the Notes app
- ✅ Use Scribble to instantly convert handwriting to text
- ✅ Mark up PDFs and documents with ease
Keyboard Shortcuts You’ll Love
- ✅ Copy, paste, and switch apps faster with a keyboard
- ✅ Save time by learning common shortcuts
📌 Want to save even more time? Browse novice shortcut keys to level up your efficiency.
Hidden iPad Tips and Tricks You’ll Wish You Knew Sooner
Many of the best iPad features are tucked away in iPadOS. Once you know where to look, you’ll find tools that make life easier.
Quick Notes and Scribble
- ✅ Swipe from the bottom corner with Apple Pencil to open Quick Note instantly
- ✅ Great for jotting down ideas on the go
Drag and Drop Between Apps
- ✅ Hold and drag photos, text, or links into another app
- ✅ Works with Mail, Messages, and more
Spotlight Search Secrets
- ✅ Swipe down on the home screen to open Spotlight
- ✅ Search apps, files, and even do quick math directly
📌 Discover more with how to use an iPad keyboard like a pro.
Personalization Hacks: Make Your iPad Truly Yours
The iPad is designed to adapt to you. With a few tweaks, you can make it look and feel unique.
Custom Widgets and Layouts
- ✅ Add widgets for weather, reminders, or calendar
- ✅ Rearrange apps into folders for better organization
Focus Modes for Every Mood
- ✅ Create Focus modes for work, study, or downtime
- ✅ Filter notifications so you only see what matters
Wallpapers and Lock Screen Tricks
- ✅ Pick wallpapers that inspire you
- ✅ Try live photos for animated backgrounds
- ✅ Add lock screen widgets for quick access to info, a feature introduced in iPadOS 16 and expanded in later versions
Entertainment and Everyday iPad Tricks
The iPad is also one of the best devices for fun. Whether you love movies, books, or games, there are plenty of tricks to enjoy.
Streaming Made Easy
- ✅ Stream shows and movies in high quality
- ✅ Adjust display settings for the best picture
- ✅ Use headphones for immersive sound
Reading Without Distractions
- ✅ Load up books, comics, or magazines
- ✅ Switch to dark mode for nighttime reading
Gaming on the Go
- ✅ Pair a controller for console-like gaming
- ✅ Many popular games support this feature
Boost iPad Performance and Battery Life
Keeping your iPad fast and efficient is easier than you think. A few habits can make it feel more powerful and extend battery life.
Find Out What Uses the Most Power
- ✅ Check battery settings for apps draining energy
- ✅ Streaming and high brightness usually consume the most
Manage Storage
- ✅ Delete unused apps and files
- ✅ Back up data to iCloud or a computer
Keep Software Updated
- ✅ Install updates for speed improvements and bug fixes
📌 If your iPad still feels slow, check out common iPad problems for quick fixes.
Privacy and Security Tips You Shouldn’t Skip
Your iPad holds a lot of personal data. These settings help keep your information safe and private.
Use Screen Time and App Limits
- ✅ Set daily app limits to avoid distractions
- ✅ Track your usage to stay balanced
Private Browsing Mode
- ✅ Open Safari and switch to Private mode
- ✅ Browse without saving history or cookies
Manage App Permissions
- ✅ Review which apps can access location, camera, or microphone
- ✅ Turn off permissions you don’t need
Cool iPad Tips and Tricks That Feel Like Magic
Some iPad features are just plain fun and surprisingly useful. Try these to see how flexible your device really is.
Use iPad as a Scanner
- ✅ Open Notes and scan documents directly
- ✅ Save scans as PDFs for later use
AirDrop for Quick Sharing
- ✅ Share files, links, and photos instantly
- ✅ Works with nearby Apple devices
Connect External Drives
- ✅ Plug in a USB-C or Lightning drive
- ✅ Move files easily between devices
Getting the Best Out of Your iPad Long-Term
Taking care of your iPad ensures it stays useful for years. A few good habits make all the difference.
Regular Backups
- ✅ Enable iCloud backups for automatic protection
- ✅ Use a computer backup if you prefer local storage
Keep Apps Organized
- ✅ Group apps into folders by category
- ✅ Keep your home screen clean and simple
Accessories Worth Having
- ✅ A protective case keeps your iPad safe
- ✅ A keyboard case boosts productivity and comfort
📌 Don’t forget to check out Chesona’s protective keyboard cases to combine style, safety, and productivity.
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The iPad is packed with features that can make life easier, more productive, and more fun. Even trying a few of these tips can transform the way you use your device every day.
For more helpful guides and tips about iPad, visit Chesona’s blog. And if you want to protect your device while boosting productivity, shop Chesona’s iPad protective cases and protective keyboard cases for any iPad model.
Frequently Asked Questions About iPad Tips and Tricks
Should you power down your iPad?
You don’t need to turn off your iPad every day, but restarting it occasionally helps refresh the system. Powering it down completely is a good idea if you plan to store it for a while. This also helps keep the battery healthier in the long run.
What is Incognito mode?
Incognito mode is another name for private browsing. It lets you surf the web without saving your history, cookies, or search data. This is useful when you want to keep your browsing private.
Where is the private button on an iPad?
In Safari, tap the tabs button at the bottom or top of the screen, depending on your iPad model. From there, select “Private” to open a private browsing session. You can switch back to normal browsing at any time using the same menu.
