MARsidebars

MARsidebars is a term that refers to a specific type of user interface element found in certain software applications, particularly those developed by or related to Microsoft. These elements typically appear on the side of the main application window and are designed to provide additional information, tools, or navigation without obstructing the primary content. The "MAR" in MARsidebars likely stands for "Microsoft Application Resources" or a similar internal designation, indicating its origin within Microsoft's development ecosystem.

These sidebars often house features such as search bars, contextual help, recent document lists, or specialized task panes. Their purpose is to enhance user productivity by making relevant functionalities readily accessible. For example, in a word processing application, a MARsidebar might display formatting options or a document outline. In a web browser, it could show bookmarks or browsing history. The design of MARsidebars prioritizes screen real estate optimization, allowing users to switch between different modes or access secondary information without closing the main window. While the term itself is not widely used outside of specific technical contexts or by users familiar with certain Microsoft products, the underlying concept of a collapsible or expandable side panel for supplementary features is a common design pattern in modern software.