Navigating your iPad can sometimes be a bit tricky, especially if you’re unsure how to go back to a previous screen. The good news is, it’s pretty simple once you get the hang of it. Usually, you can just use on-screen gestures or buttons to go back. Whether you’re in an app or browsing through Safari, there’s a way to retrace your steps easily.
Step-by-Step Tutorial on How to Go Back on iPad
In this section, we’ll go through step-by-step instructions on how to navigate back to a previous screen on your iPad.
Step 1: Use the Home Button
If your iPad has a physical Home button, press it once to return to the home screen.
The Home button is a round button located at the bottom center of the iPad. Pressing it will immediately take you out of the current app and bring you back to the home screen, where you can select another app or continue what you were doing.
Step 2: Swipe from the Left Edge of the Screen
When inside an app, swipe from the left edge of the screen toward the center to go back one screen.
This gesture acts like a back button in most apps, helping you return to the previous screen without needing to use the Home button. It’s very useful for navigation within apps.
Step 3: Use the Multitasking Bar
Swipe up from the bottom edge of the screen and pause to open the multitasking bar, then select the app you want to go back to.
This gesture brings up all the apps you’ve recently used. You can simply tap on any of them to return to where you left off, making it easy to switch between tasks.
Step 4: Look for an On-Screen Back Button
In many apps, there is an on-screen back button, usually in the top left corner.
Tapping this button will typically take you to the previous screen within the app. It’s often labeled as “Back,” or it might be an arrow pointing to the left.
Step 5: Use Safari’s Back and Forward Buttons
While browsing in Safari, use the back button located at the bottom left corner of the screen.
This button looks like a left-pointing arrow, and tapping it will take you to the previous webpage you were viewing. There’s also a forward button to go ahead if you need to.
After completing these steps, you’ll find navigating your iPad much more intuitive. You’ll be able to move back to previous screens with ease, whether you’re on the home screen, within an app, or browsing the web.
Tips on How to Go Back on iPad
- Familiarize with Gestures: Practice the swipe gestures to make navigation smoother and faster.
- Use AssistiveTouch: Enable AssistiveTouch in settings for an on-screen home button, especially useful if your physical button is not working.
- Know Your Apps: Each app might have its own back button or navigation method. Spend some time exploring these.
- Keyboard Shortcuts: If you use an external keyboard, learn the shortcuts for even quicker navigation.
- Update Regularly: Keep your iPad software up-to-date to ensure you have the latest navigation features and bug fixes.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I go back to the home screen without a Home button?
Use the swipe-up gesture from the bottom edge of the screen to return to the home screen.
Can I customize gestures on my iPad?
Yes, you can customize some gestures under Settings > Accessibility > Touch > AssistiveTouch.
What should I do if swiping doesn’t work?
Restart your iPad or check for software updates. If the problem persists, you might need to reset your settings.
How do I use AssistiveTouch?
Go to Settings > Accessibility > Touch > AssistiveTouch and toggle it on. You’ll get an on-screen button that mimics the Home button.
Why can’t I find the back button in some apps?
Not all apps have a visible back button. Use gestures or the Home button as an alternative.
Summary
- Step 1: Use the Home Button
- Step 2: Swipe from the Left Edge of the Screen
- Step 3: Use the Multitasking Bar
- Step 4: Look for an On-Screen Back Button
- Step 5: Use Safari’s Back and Forward Buttons
Conclusion
Navigating your iPad is a breeze once you master a few key techniques. Whether you’re using the Home button, swiping from the edge, or making use of multitasking features, getting back to where you started is just a tap or a swipe away. Keeping your iPad updated and familiarizing yourself with its features can make your user experience even better.
Understanding how to go back on iPad not only makes your life easier but also helps you get the most out of your device. If you’re new to the iPad, take some time to practice these gestures and explore the settings. The more you play around with it, the more intuitive it will become. So go ahead, give it a try, and make your iPad work for you!
Matthew Burleigh has been writing tech tutorials since 2008. His writing has appeared on dozens of different websites and been read over 50 million times.
After receiving his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Computer Science he spent several years working in IT management for small businesses. However, he now works full time writing content online and creating websites.
His main writing topics include iPhones, Microsoft Office, Google Apps, Android, and Photoshop, but he has also written about many other tech topics as well.