# Switch your Mac app grid when a Focus starts

Add CubbyPad as a Focus Filter and choose a layout for that Focus. When the Focus ends, CubbyPad returns to your main layout.

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

## Let an existing Focus choose the arrangement

If you already turn on a work or study Focus, using the same event to select an app layout avoids a second manual switch. The apps you want to browse can match the activity you have just chosen.

A layout changes the launcher’s arrangement. It does not itself configure notification rules, close other apps or prevent you from opening them. Configure the Focus’s other behavior separately in macOS.

## Add the CubbyPad filter

1. Create the intended layout in CubbyPad first.

1. Open System Settings › Focus and choose the Focus.

1. Find Focus Filters and choose Add Filter.

1. Select CubbyPad and choose the layout.

1. Turn the Focus on, open the grid and check the arrangement.

## Test the return to your main layout

Turn the Focus off and check that CubbyPad returns to your main layout. This is part of the setup, not just a detail: the arrangement after work matters as much as the arrangement during it.

Give the main layout a structure you recognize. If you also use display or time rules, check their behavior with the Focus both on and off so that you understand which condition is choosing the view.

## Keep a manual route available

The top-left layout menu and menu bar icon still give you a direct way to inspect and switch arrangements. Use them to check your setup before adding more automation. A single reliable Focus mapping is easier to trust than several overlapping rules you have not tested.

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.

[### 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.

Read article ↗](https://cubbypad.com/blog/automatic-app-layout-monitor-time-mac/)[### 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/)

## 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/switch-app-layout-with-focus-mode-mac/