# Choose an app layout by monitor or time of day

CubbyPad can select layouts using connected-display and time rules. Use them when a desk setup or a regular schedule reliably marks a change in how you work.

By [Rudra Satani](https://cubbypad.com/about/), maker of CubbyPad · 26 October 2026

## Use a condition that means something in your day

Connecting a desk display can mark the start of a work session. A regular time window can mark a repeated routine. CubbyPad’s layout rules let those conditions select an arrangement without moving installed apps.

A rule is useful only when the condition is reliable. If you use the same monitor for both work and entertainment, a manual switch or a Focus Filter may describe your intent more accurately.

## Build and test one rule

1. Create the layout you want to select.

1. Open the layout’s rule controls in Settings › Layout.

1. Choose the connected display or the days and time window that should apply.

1. Test the matching condition and inspect the grid.

1. Test leaving the condition as well, such as disconnecting the display or ending the time window.

## Check rules that can overlap

A work Focus, a desk monitor and a time window can all describe the same part of a day. A Focus with a CubbyPad filter takes priority over ordinary layout rules. Check the resulting arrangement when more than one condition is active.

Use distinct names for layouts so you can identify the active one quickly. Keep the number of rules small until their behavior is predictable.

## Selecting a layout and selecting a screen are separate

A display rule chooses which arrangement is active. The opening-display preference chooses where the grid appears. Set both deliberately if you want a work layout on an external monitor. Otherwise a correct layout can still open on a screen you were not expecting.

Published by CubbyPad’s maker. See [about CubbyPad](https://cubbypad.com/about/) for the author and product details. For corrections, [get in touch](https://cubbypad.com/contact/).

## Put it into practice.

[Guide

### Set up layouts, Focus and iCloud sync

Keep separate app arrangements, pair them with a Focus, and share them through your own iCloud Drive.

Read guide ↗](https://cubbypad.com/guides/layouts/)[Guide

### Choose how to open the app grid

Set up the keyboard shortcut, F4, a three-finger pinch, a hot corner, or the Dock and menu bar icons.

Read guide ↗](https://cubbypad.com/guides/opening/)

## More on layouts and workflows.

[### Sync an app grid between two Macs with iCloud Drive

CubbyPad can sync layouts, folders and chosen app names through your own iCloud Drive. It does not install apps on the other Mac or add license activations.

Read article ↗](https://cubbypad.com/blog/sync-app-grid-between-two-macs/)[### Back up your app layout before moving to a new Mac

Save a CubbyPad layout file before changing Macs or reorganizing your grid. Your layout, installed applications and license activation each need their own check.

Read article ↗](https://cubbypad.com/blog/back-up-app-layout-before-moving-mac/)[### Open a folder of Mac apps together

CubbyPad’s Open All command launches the apps in a folder together. Keep the group small and purposeful for the start of a work or creative session.

Read article ↗](https://cubbypad.com/blog/open-folder-of-mac-apps-together/)

## Make room for your apps.

Every feature. One-time purchase. Made for macOS 26.

[Find your plan](https://cubbypad.com/pricing/)

Source: https://cubbypad.com/blog/automatic-app-layout-monitor-time-mac/