How to Make Screenshots on PC: Quick Guide

Taking a screenshot on your PC is an essential skill that allows you to capture and share what’s on your screen. Whether you’re using Windows 10 or Windows 11, there are multiple methods to easily take screenshots. Let’s explore the built-in tools and shortcuts that will help you capture your screen effortlessly.

When you need to save a moment or share information displayed on your computer, taking a screenshot is the way to go. Whether you want to capture an entire webpage, a specific window, or even a portion of your screen, making screenshots is a straightforward process on both Windows 10 and Windows 11.

In this guide, we will explore the different methods available to take screenshots on your PC, including the built-in tools such as Snip & Sketch and the Snipping Tool, as well as other convenient options.

With the help of this guide, you’ll become a screenshot pro in no time!

Using Snip & Sketch for Screenshots

The Snip & Sketch tool is a built-in feature in Windows 10 and Windows 11 that offers an improved way to take screenshots compared to the older Snipping Tool. You can access Snip & Sketch by using the keyboard shortcut Windows key + Shift + S or by searching for it in the Start menu.

Snip & Sketch provides various options for capturing screenshots. You can choose to capture individual windows, rectangular areas, freeform shapes, or the entire screen. This versatility makes it suitable for a wide range of screenshot needs.

Once you’ve captured a screenshot using Snip & Sketch, it is automatically saved to the clipboard. To access it, simply open the Snip & Sketch app. Here, you can annotate, highlight, or crop the screenshot to your liking.

Sharing your Snip & Sketch screenshots is also a breeze. You can easily copy them to other applications or save them to your local storage for future reference. With its intuitive interface and handy features, Snip & Sketch is a convenient tool for all your screenshot needs.

Using the Snipping Tool for Screenshots

The Snipping Tool is a built-in screenshot tool available in Windows 10 and Windows 11. It provides a simple and reliable way to capture screenshots on your PC. To access the Snipping Tool, you can easily search for it in the Start menu.

With the Snipping Tool, you have the flexibility to take screenshots in different modes:

• Rectangular snip: Capture a specific rectangular area of your screen.
• Freeform snip: Capture a customized shape or section of your screen.
• Full-screen snip: Capture the entire screen.
• Window snip: Capture a specific window or application.

Unlike the Snip & Sketch tool, which automatically saves your screenshots to the clipboard, the Snipping Tool requires you to manually save your captures before exiting the tool. However, it does automatically copy the captures to the clipboard, making it easy to paste them into other applications or documents.

The Snipping Tool is a reliable option for taking screenshots, especially if you prefer the simplicity and familiarity of the older tool. It offers a straightforward interface and allows you to capture precisely what you need.

For a visual guide on using the Snipping Tool, refer to the table below:

By following these simple steps, you can effectively use the Snipping Tool to capture and save screenshots on your PC. Whether you need to share important information, demonstrate a problem, or save a memorable moment, the Snipping Tool is a valuable tool in your screenshot arsenal.

Other Methods for Taking Screenshots on PC

In addition to the built-in tools, there are other methods for taking screenshots on your PC. One of the most common methods is using the Print Screen key. When pressed, it captures the entire screen and stores it on the clipboard. You can then open an image editing tool like Microsoft Paint, paste the screenshot, and save it to your desired location.

If you’re using Windows 10 or Windows 11, another convenient shortcut is the Windows key + Print Screen combination. This automatically saves a full-screen screenshot to the “Pictures > Screenshots” folder in your computer’s file explorer. It’s a quick and hassle-free way to capture your entire screen without the need for additional steps.

If you want to capture a specific window, you can use the Alt + Print Screen shortcut. This captures the active window and copies it to the clipboard. You can then paste it into an image editing tool or any document for further use.

For gamers and avid app users, the Game bar feature is a fantastic option. Simply press the Windows key + G to open the Game bar, and from there, you can easily capture screenshots while playing games or using other applications. It’s a convenient way to capture your gaming achievements or important moments during app usage.

Owners of Microsoft Surface devices have an additional method. By pressing the Windows Logo + volume down button simultaneously, you can take a screenshot of the entire screen. This combination is specifically designed for Microsoft Surface devices and offers a quick and straightforward way to capture your screen.

Lastly, there are third-party screenshot apps available for Windows. These apps, such as Lightshot, Greenshot, ScreenRec, Snagit, and Screencast-O-Matic, offer a variety of additional features and editing capabilities to enhance your screenshots. They can provide more advanced options, including capturing specific areas, adding annotations, and even recording screencasts.