How to Take a Screenshot on Computer?

Screenshots are a quick and effective way to capture information on your computer. Whether you need to save an error message, share something interesting, or document important details, taking a screenshot is simple. In this guide, we’ll show you how to take a screenshot on Windows and Mac using different methods.

How to Take a Screenshot on Windows

Windows offers multiple ways to take screenshots, depending on whether you want to capture the full screen, a specific window, or a selected area.

1. Capture the Entire Screen (Print Screen Key)

• Press PrtScn (Print Screen) – Captures the entire screen and copies it to the clipboard.
• Open an image editor like Paint or Word, then press Ctrl + V to paste.
• Save the file as PNG, JPG, or BMP.

2. Screenshot of an Active Window

• Press Alt + PrtScn – Captures only the active window.
• Paste it into an image editor and save.

3. Using Windows Snipping Tool (Best for Custom Screenshots)

The Snipping Tool allows you to take screenshots of specific areas, windows, or the full screen.

Steps to Use the Snipping Tool:

1. Press Windows + Shift + S to open the Snipping Tool.
2. Select the type of screenshot:
   • Rectangular Snip – Drag to select a portion of the screen.
   • Freeform Snip – Draw any shape to capture.
   • Window Snip – Click on a window to capture it.
   • Fullscreen Snip – Takes a screenshot of the entire screen.
3. The image is copied to the clipboard—paste it into an editor or save it.

4. Automatically Save Screenshots

• Press Windows + PrtScn – Captures the screen and automatically saves it in:
  Pictures > Screenshots folder.

5. Take Screenshots While Gaming (Xbox Game Bar)

• Press Windows + G to open the Xbox Game Bar.
• Click the camera icon or press Windows + Alt + PrtScn.
• Screenshots are saved in Videos > Captures.

How to Take a Screenshot on Mac

If you use a Mac, Apple provides built-in tools to take screenshots easily and efficiently.

1. Capture the Entire Screen

• Press Command (⌘) + Shift + 3 – The screenshot is automatically saved to the desktop.

2. Capture a Specific Area

• Press Command (⌘) + Shift + 4 – The cursor changes to a crosshair.
• Drag and select the area you want to capture.
• The screenshot is saved automatically.

3. Capture a Specific Window

• Press Command (⌘) + Shift + 4 + Spacebar – The cursor changes to a camera icon.
• Click on the window you want to capture.

4. Using the Screenshot App (For More Options)

• Press Command (⌘) + Shift + 5 to open the Screenshot app (macOS Mojave & later).
• Choose from different options, including capturing the entire screen, a selected portion, or recording the screen.

Where Are Screenshots Saved?

Windows: Screenshots are saved in Pictures > Screenshots or Videos > Captures (for gaming).
Mac: Screenshots are saved on the Desktop by default (you can change this in settings).

Final Thoughts

Taking a screenshot on a Windows or Mac computer is quick and easy using keyboard shortcuts or built-in tools. Whether you need to capture the entire screen, a selected area, or a specific window, these methods will help you get the perfect screenshot every time.

Pro Tip: If you take frequent screenshots, try Windows Snipping Tool or Mac’s Screenshot App for added flexibility and control!