If you've been using several different apps on your Android tablet or smartphone, it might surprise you to realise that many of them remain open in the background, even if you're not actively using them.

With multiple apps open, your device tends to run down its battery more quickly - particularly if the apps are fetching data off the internet.

It's easy to close down apps or switch between them. We show you how in the video below.

Video: Close and switch apps on an Android tablet

Remember, Android devices come from many different brands, each of which apply their own custom interfaces. In most cases, the directions above should be virtually the same to what you'll find on your own Android tablet or smartphone.