How to Screenshot on Windows

It is highly likely that at some point, you may encounter a scenario that requires you to know how to screenshot on Windows.

Taking Screenshots on Windows: A Comprehensive Guide

Capturing screenshots or screen captures on Windows is a simple process that comes in handy when saving images, troubleshooting errors, or sharing your screen with others. There are several ways to screenshot on a Windows PC, and in this guide, we'll explore some of the most common methods and tools.

1. Using the Print Screen Button (PrtScn)

One of the most common ways to screenshot on Windows is by using the Print Screen button, also known as PrtScn. This method captures the entire screen, and you can then paste it into an image editor or document.

Here's how to take a screenshot using the PrtScn button:

• Press the PrtScn button on your keyboard.
• The screenshot will be saved to your clipboard.
• Open an image editor, such as Microsoft Paint or Sketch, and paste the screenshot by pressing Ctrl + V or right-clicking and selecting Paste.
• Edit the screenshot as desired and save the file.

2. Using the Snipping Tool App

The Snipping Tool is a built-in app in Windows that allows you to capture screenshots in rectangular, freeform, window, and full-screen modes. This method offers more flexibility than using the PrtScn button, allowing you to select specific screen areas.

Here's how to take a screenshot using the Snipping Tool app:

• Open the Snipping Tool app by typing "Snipping Tool" in the search bar or accessing it from the Start menu.
• Click New to create a new snip.
• Select the type of snip you want to take (rectangular or freeform).
• Select the area you want to capture.
• After that, screenshots are opened in the “Snipping Tool”, and you can edit, save, or copy it to your clipboard.

3. Using the Windows Game Bar

It’s a tool designed for gamers, making it easy to screenshot and record game clips. This tool works in most games and offers quick access to screen capture tools:

• Press the Windows logo key + G to open the Game Bar.
• To screenshot, click on the “camera icon”
• The screenshot will be saved to your captures folder, which you can access by opening the Xbox app and selecting Game DVR.

4. Using Third-Party Apps

If you need more advanced features than the built-in tools offer, you can use third-party apps to take screenshots on Windows. Some popular apps include Greenshot, Lightshot, and Snagit.

Here's how to take a screenshot using Snagit:

• Install and open Snagit on your Windows PC.
• Open the Capture Window (click Capture button)
• Select the type of capture you want to take, such as fullscreen or window.
• Select the area you want to capture.
• You can find your screenshots saved in Snagit. Here, you can edit, save, or share screenshots.

In conclusion, taking screenshots on Windows is a useful skill to help you in various situations. Using these tools or apps, you can capture the entire screen, a single window, or a specific area. Whether you're using a keyboard shortcut, the Snipping Tool app, or the Windows Game Bar, taking screenshots on Windows is quick and easy.