How to Take a Screenshot on a Windows PC: The Snipping Tool

How to Take a Screenshot on a Windows PC: The Snipping Tool

From Brian Brown

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The Snipping Tool is the best native method for capturing screenshots on a Windows PC. Although it may not be the most versatile, it allows users to define and capture specific portions of their desktop display. Here's a simple guide on how to use it:

Step 1: Type "snipping tool" into the taskbar’s search box and select the resulting app. For Windows 10, a notification may appear about its move to a new location in a later update. Don't worry; it's still available in Windows 11, with Microsoft suggesting the Win + Shift + S keyboard shortcut.

Step 2: On Windows 10, select the Mode button to choose from four screen-capturing options: Free-form snip, Rectangular snip, Window snip, and Full-screen snip. On Windows 11, select New or use the Win + Shift + S shortcut to start a snip.

Step 3: After capturing a screenshot, the Snipping Tool interface will display it. You can perform light edits, such as using a pen or highlighter.

Step 4: Once done, select File and then click Save as. In Windows 11, select the Save as disk icon, name your File, and click Save.

Using the Snip & Sketch App (Windows 10)

Snip & Sketch is Microsoft’s updated snipping utility. Here's how to use it:

Step 1: Use the Win + Shift + S keyboard shortcut, and a toolbar will appear. The captured image goes to the clipboard.

Step 2: A desktop notification informs you of the capture, allowing you to edit it within the Snip & Sketch app.

Step 3: Load the app, select the New button, and choose Snip Now. Your snip will load, ready for editing.

Step 4: Save the image using the Disk-style button or edit it in an installed image editor using the Three-Dot icon.

How to Take a Screenshot on a Windows PC: Keyboard Shortcuts (PrintScreen)

Windows provides six methods using keyboard shortcuts. Here's a breakdown:

How to Take a Screenshot on a Windows PC: Using OneDrive (Windows 10 and 11)

If using OneDrive, follow these steps:

Now, using Print Screen commands will save images to OneDrive.

How to Take a Screenshot on Other Devices

For Mac: Command + Shift + 3 (whole screen) or Command + Shift + 4 (selection box).

For Microsoft Surface: Refer to the specific guide.

For Chromebook: Control + Show Windows keys (whole screen) or Control + Shift + Show Windows (selected area).

Visit Ask the Computer Tech for more information on computer problems and helpful tips.

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