Using the Back Button or Previous Page in the Safari Web Browser on the iPad


A participant in my Master Class recently asked this question:

How do I go “back” in Safari? Sometimes the “back” button works and sometimes it doesn’t.

Here’s my reply:

When you tap on a link on a webpage, one of two things generally happens:
1. The link opens in the same window, replacing the current content. Then the back button in Safari should take you back to the previous page.
2. The website author chose to have the link open in a new window or tab. In that case, your current page remains in one tab and the linked page you tapped opens in a new tab in Safari.

If the Back Button is black then you can use it to return to the previous page. If the button is grayed out, then that function is not available.

If the Back button (previous page) doesn’t seem to be working correctly, try one of these solutions:

Settings > Safari > Clear History

End the Safari app from the Multitasking Bar. This will remove the app from memory (iPad RAM). Then you can restart Safari fresh.


About Andy Brovey

Dr. Andy Brovey, The Portable Prof, teaches about digital tools through his work, websites and social media. In 2007, Apple Inc. recognized his work and named him an Apple Distinguished Educator. He started this iPad Academy website shortly after the first iPad went on sale. On his Freelance Teaching site you'll find the resources you need to teach like a smart entrepreneur.