How to Screenshot on Windows

Taking screenshots is an essential skill for sharing information, troubleshooting issues, or simply capturing a memorable moment on your screen. Windows provides multiple built-in methods that are simple to use, whether you’re a beginner or a tech-savvy user. In this guide, we’ll walk through the most reliable ways to capture your screen on a Windows computer.

1. Using the Print Screen Key

The simplest and most universal method to capture a screenshot on Windows is by using the Print Screen key, often labeled as “PrtScn” on your keyboard.

Full-Screen Capture

Step 1: Locate the Print Screen key on your keyboard.
Step 2: Press the PrtScn key. This action copies the entire screen’s content to your clipboard.
Step 3: Open an image editing tool like Paint or Photoshop.
Step 4: Paste the screenshot (Ctrl + V) and save the image.

Active Window Capture

Step 1: Click on the window you want to capture to make it active.
Step 2: Press Alt + PrtScn. This captures only the active window.
Step 3: Paste the image into an editing tool and save it.

Using the Print Screen key is straightforward and doesn’t require additional software, making it a quick solution for most users.

2. Using Snip & Sketch

For those who need a bit more control over their screenshots, Windows offers the Snip & Sketch tool. If the shortcut Windows + Shift + S isn’t working on your device, you can access Snip & Sketch by using the search bar.

How to Use Snip & Sketch:

Step 1: Click on the Start button or click on the search bar and type Snip & Sketch.
Step 2: Open the Snip & Sketch application from the search results.
Step 3: Once the tool is open, click on the New button. Your screen will dim, and a small toolbar will appear.
Step 4: Choose the type of snip you want:
- Rectangular Snip: Drag the cursor to form a rectangle.
- Freeform Snip: Draw any shape you want.
- Window Snip: Click on a window to capture.
- Full-Screen Snip: Capture the entire screen.
Step 5: The snipped image is copied to your clipboard. You can then use the editing features within Snip & Sketch to annotate or crop the image, and finally save it.

Snip & Sketch is ideal for those who need additional editing options immediately after capturing their screenshot.