01Using the Print Screen Key

  • The Print Screen key on your keyboard offers a quick and easy way to capture the entire screen and save it to your clipboard.
  • To take a screenshot using the Print Screen key, simply locate the key labeled 'Print Screen' or 'PrtScn' on your keyboard. It is usually located in the upper-right corner of the keyboard.
  • Once you have located the Print Screen key, press it to capture the entire screen. The screen will dim momentarily, indicating that the screenshot has been taken.
  • Next, open an image editing program or a document editor like Microsoft Word or Paint. Create a new document or navigate to an existing one.
  • Paste the screenshot by pressing 'Ctrl + V' or right-clicking and selecting 'Paste'. The screenshot will be inserted into your document or image editing program.
  • Finally, save the document or image file to store the screenshot for future use.

02Using the Snipping Tool

  • Windows provides a built-in tool called the Snipping Tool, which allows you to capture a selected area of the screen and save it as an image.
  • To use the Snipping Tool:
  • Click on the Start button and search for 'Snipping Tool'. Open the tool when it appears in the search results.
  • Once the Snipping Tool window is open, click on the arrow next to the 'New' button. You will see options to capture a rectangular snip, a free-form snip, a window snip, or a full-screen snip.
  • Select the desired snip option and use your mouse or touchpad to select the specific area you want to capture. Release the mouse button to take the snip.
  • After capturing the snip, the Snipping Tool window will open, displaying the captured image. You can annotate the image, highlight areas, or save it directly as an image file.
  • Click on the 'Save' button to choose a location and save the snip as an image file.

03Using the Windows Game Bar

  • If you are running Windows 10, you can also use the Windows Game Bar to capture screenshots during gameplay or any other application.
  • To use the Windows Game Bar for taking screenshots:
  • While in the application or game you want to capture, press the 'Windows key + G' on your keyboard to open the Windows Game Bar.
  • In the Game Bar overlay, click on the 'Camera' icon to capture a screenshot.
  • The screenshot will be saved in the default location 'This PC > Pictures > Screenshots'. You can also find your screenshots in the 'Captures' folder inside the 'Videos' folder.
  • Note: The Windows Game Bar only works in certain applications and games that support it.
  • Additionally, you can customize the settings of the Windows Game Bar by going to 'Settings > Gaming > Game Bar'.

Conclusion

Capturing screenshots on Windows is a simple and versatile process. Whether you prefer using the Print Screen key, the Snipping Tool, or the Windows Game Bar, you can easily capture and save screenshots for various purposes. Experiment with these methods to find the one that suits your needs best. Start taking screenshots like a pro and share your captures with friends, colleagues, or simply keep them for future reference.

MethodsDetails
Print Screen KeyPress the Print Screen key to capture the entire screen and save it to the clipboard.
Snipping ToolUse the Snipping Tool to capture a selected area of the screen and save it as an image file.
Windows Game BarIf you are using Windows 10, you can utilize the Windows Game Bar to capture screenshots during gameplay or any application.
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Windows
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