The Snipping Tool in Windows can do more than just take screenshots. It can also record video, making it easy to capture what happens on your screen. This is useful for showing someone how to do something, saving a software issue, or recording a tutorial.

When to Use Screen Recording

Use the video recording feature when a still image(screenshot) is not enough. This can include showing how to use software, capturing a bug in action, recording a live meeting, or creating simple tutorials.

The Snipping Tool makes video capture quick, simple, and built right into Windows.

Follow the steps below to start recording video using the Snipping Tool.

1. Open the Snipping Tool

Click the Start menu or the search bar in the bottom-left corner of your screen. Type Snipping Tool and click on it when it appears.

2. Switch to Video Mode

Once the Snipping Tool is open, look for the video camera icon at the top of the window. Click it to switch from screenshot mode to video recording mode.

3. Click the New Button

After switching to video mode, click the New button. This will dim the screen and turn your cursor into a crosshair.

4. Select the Area to Record

Click and hold your left mouse button at one corner of the area you want to record. Drag to the opposite corner, then release the button. This defines the part of the screen you will capture.

5. Start the Recording

A small toolbar will appear near the selected area. Click the Record button to begin capturing video. Everything inside the box will be recorded.

6. Stop the Recording

When you are finished, click the Stop button on the same toolbar. This will end the recording and open a preview window.

7. Save or Share the Video

After stopping the recording, the Snipping Tool will show you a preview. You can then choose to save the video to your computer or share it with others.