How To Screenshot On A PC: Step-by-Step Guide For Windows Users
Taking a screenshot on a PC is one of the easiest and most useful tricks you can learn. Whether you want to capture an error message, save an image from a website, or show someone what’s on your screen, knowing how to screenshot on a PC can save you time and effort.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through different methods to take screenshots on Windows computers, from using keyboard shortcuts to built-in tools and apps.
1. How to Take a PC Screenshot Using Print Screen (PrtScn)
The fastest way to capture your full screen is to use the Print Screen key, which is frequently labeled PrtScn or PrtSc.
Procedure:
On your keyboard, press the PrtScn key.
Your clipboard will receive a copy of the screenshot.
Press Ctrl + V to paste the image into an application, such as Microsoft Word or Paint.
Press Ctrl + S to save the file.
Tip: You may need to hit Fn + PrtScn on certain laptops.
2. How to Use Alt + PrtScn to Take a Screenshot of a Specific Window
Use this shortcut if you wish to record just the active window and not your entire screen.
Procedure:
To capture a window, click on it.
Hit Alt + PrtScn.
To paste the screenshot, open Paint or a similar image editor and hit Ctrl + V.
Save the picture.
When you wish to record a single app window while multitasking, this technique works well.
3. How To Screenshot Part Of Your Screen (Windows + Shift + S)
Windows 10 and Windows 11 come with a feature called Snip & Sketch or Snipping Tool that lets you capture a portion of your screen.
Steps:
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Press Windows + Shift + S on your keyboard.
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Your screen will dim, and a small toolbar will appear at the top.
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Drag your mouse to select the area you want to capture.
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The screenshot will be copied to your clipboard.
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Paste it in an app like Paint, Word, or even directly into a chat.
Pro Tip: After capturing, you’ll get a notification that lets you edit and save your snip.
4. How To Screenshot On A PC And Save Automatically (Windows + PrtScn)
Want your screenshot saved automatically without copying and pasting?
Steps:
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Press Windows + PrtScn.
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Your screen will briefly dim to indicate a screenshot was taken.
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The file is automatically saved in Pictures → Screenshots.
This is one of the most convenient ways to take a screenshot if you take them frequently.
5. How to Utilize Windows’ Snipping Tool
You have more control over your screenshots thanks to a built-in Windows tool called the Snipping Tool.
Procedure:
Open Snipping Tool by typing its name into the Windows search box.
To begin a capture, click New.
Choose the portion of the screen that you wish to take a screenshot of.
Save the picture or make any necessary edits.
Delaying a screenshot is another feature of the Snipping Tool that makes it ideal for capturing hover effects or drop-down menus.
6. How to Use the Xbox Game Bar to Take a Screenshot
The Xbox Game Bar can snap screenshots on your PC despite being made for gaming.
Procedure:
To access the Game Bar, press Windows + G.
Bonus: Third-Party Screenshot Tools
If you need advanced features like annotations or scrolling screenshots, you can try third-party apps such as:
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Lightshot
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Greenshot
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Snagit
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ShareX
These tools offer more customization and cloud-sharing options.