How to Screenshot on Windows

Taking screenshots on a Windows computer is simple once you know the right shortcuts and tools. Whether you’re using Windows 10, 11, or earlier, this guide covers all the best methods to capture your screen.

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⌨️ Method 1: Use the Print Screen (PrtScn) Key

This is the classic and quickest way to take a screenshot.

1. Press the PrtScn key on your keyboard.

2. This captures the entire screen and copies it to your clipboard.

3. Open Paint, Word, or any image editor and press Ctrl + V to paste and save the screenshot.

👉 Note: On laptops, you may need to press Fn + PrtScn.

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💻 Method 2: Capture Only the Active Window

To capture the currently active window:

1. Press Alt + PrtScn.

2. The screenshot will be copied to the clipboard.

3. Paste it into an editor like Paint or Photoshop to save.

This method is perfect when you only want to capture a specific app window.

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🖼️ Method 3: Use Snipping Tool (Windows 7/10/11)

The Snipping Tool allows you to capture specific portions of your screen.

1. Open Snipping Tool from the Start menu.

2. Click New and select your snip area.

3. You can choose from:

• Free-form Snip

• Rectangular Snip

• Window Snip

• Full-screen Snip

4. Edit and save the screenshot directly from the app.

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✂️ Method 4: Use Snip & Sketch Tool (Windows 10/11)

Snip & Sketch is an upgraded version of the Snipping Tool:

1. Press Windows Key + Shift + S.

2. Your screen will dim and a small toolbar will appear at the top.

3. Choose a screenshot type and capture it.

4. The snip is copied to the clipboard and appears as a notification for quick editing.

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📷 Method 5: Use Windows Game Bar (For Gamers)

To capture screenshots while gaming or using any app:

1. Press Windows Key + G to open the Game Bar.

2. Click the camera icon or press Windows + Alt + PrtScn to take a screenshot.

3. Screenshots are saved to:
   `C:\Users