A screenshot (sometimes called a screencap or screen capture) is an image that shows exactly what’s on your screen. Kind of like taking a photo of your display. This image can then be edited, shared, or used in a variety of ways.
Screenshots are incredibly useful in everyday situations. If someone is helping you fix your computer over the phone, a screenshot can show them exactly what you see. You might want to share a product you’re considering buying, save an error message before it disappears, capture a recipe or a funny moment online, or keep part of a conversation. They’re also helpful for giving or following instructions, making it easier to explain steps visually. Whether you’re asking for help, saving information, or sharing something interesting, a screenshot is a quick and effective solution.
The Snipping Tool
Use the keyboard shortcut. Hold down “shift” then hold down the windows button at the same time and finally press the “s” key while still holding the previous two buttons. For short Shift+Windows+S.
On Windows, the easiest (and usually best) way to take a screenshot is with the Snipping Tool. There are two main ways to open it:
Use the Keyboard Shortcut
Press the following keys all at once (start by holding shift, then holding windows and then pressing S. You don’t have to go fast)
Shift + Windows + S
This is quick, but can be tricky if you’re not used to keyboard shortcuts.
Search for It
If you prefer a more visual method:
- Click on the Start Menu or press the Windows key.
- Type “Snipping Tool” into the search bar.
- Click the app when it appears.
Taking a Screenshot
Once the Snipping Tool is open, here’s what to do:
- Choose the Correct Mode
- Make sure the camera icon is selected on the left.
- Start a New Snip
- Either press the shortcut (Shift + Windows + S) again, or click the New button in the app.
- Capture the Area You Want
- The screen will dim, and your cursor will turn into a large plus sign (+).
- Click and hold your left mouse button where you want to start your screenshot.
- Drag to the opposite corner of the area you want to capture.
- Release the mouse button when you’re done.
You can capture just part of the screen, a specific window, or the entire display, it’s up to you.
By default the image will be save to your screenshots folder.
