How to Print Screen on Windows 10
Taking a screenshot on Windows 10 is as simple as pressing a few keys on your keyboard. The most straightforward way is to press the "PrtScn" key to copy the entire screen to your clipboard, which you can then paste into an image editor. For more flexibility, use "Windows + Shift + S" to open the Snip & Sketch tool, where you can select specific parts of your screen. Alternatively, "Alt + PrtScn" captures just the active window. These methods let you capture whatever you need on your screen, effortlessly and quickly.
How to Print Screen on Windows 10
Once you’ve learned the different ways to take screenshots on Windows 10, you’ll be able to easily capture anything on your screen. Whether it’s a full screen, a specific window, or a selected area, the process is straightforward. Let’s go through the steps.
Step 1: Press the PrtScn Key
To capture the entire screen and copy it to your clipboard, press the "PrtScn" key (Print Screen).
The "PrtScn" key is usually located on the upper-right side of your keyboard. When you press it, nothing visible happens on the screen, but the whole screen’s image is saved to your clipboard. You can then paste it into any image editing software like Paint or even directly into a document.
Step 2: Use Windows + Shift + S
To capture a specific part of your screen, press "Windows + Shift + S."
This command opens the Snip & Sketch tool, allowing you to choose the part of the screen you want to capture. The screen will dim, and you can use your mouse to draw a rectangle for the area you want to capture. The selected screenshot is then copied to your clipboard.
Step 3: Press Alt + PrtScn
To capture just the active window, press "Alt + PrtScn."
This step saves only the window you’re actively using to your clipboard. It’s perfect for when you don’t want all the extra stuff around your focused window. Like with the "PrtScn" method, you can paste it into an editor afterwards.
Step 4: Use Snip & Sketch App
Open the Snip & Sketch app for more editing options and to save your screenshot directly.
The Snip & Sketch app can be found by searching in the Start menu. Once opened, you can create a new snip with various options, including freeform and full-screen snips, and then save it directly to your files with the "Save as" option.
Step 5: Use Windows Key + PrtScn
To take a screenshot and save it automatically, press "Windows Key + PrtScn."
This combination takes a screenshot of the entire screen and saves it to the "Screenshots" folder, which you’ll find in your Pictures library. This method is handy if you need to capture multiple screenshots without manually saving each one.
Completing these steps will allow you to take screenshots on Windows 10 easily. Your screenshots can be pasted into a document or edited in an image editor, providing the flexibility to share or save them as desired.
Tips for How to Print Screen on Windows 10
- Ensure your keyboard’s "Fn" key isn’t locked, as it might affect the "PrtScn" key functionality.
- Use an external tool like Lightshot for advanced editing and direct uploads to the web.
- Customize the Snip & Sketch settings to set a delay timer or change the snip shape.
- Organize your screenshots by regularly cleaning up your "Screenshots" folder.
- Consider using OneDrive, which automatically saves screenshots in the cloud, freeing up local storage space.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if my PrtScn key isn’t working?
If your "PrtScn" key isn’t working, it might be due to your keyboard settings. Check if the "Fn" key needs to be pressed along with "PrtScn" or update your keyboard drivers.
Can I capture a part of the screen without Snip & Sketch?
Yes, you can use "Windows + Shift + S," which opens a quick snip tool without fully launching the Snip & Sketch app.
Where are my screenshots saved?
Screenshots taken using "Windows Key + PrtScn" are saved in the "Screenshots" folder within the Pictures library.
Is there a shortcut for editing a screenshot immediately?
Yes, after taking a snip using Snip & Sketch, a notification appears. Clicking it opens the snip in the app for instant editing.
Can I set a timer for taking screenshots?
The Snip & Sketch app allows you to set a delay before capturing, useful for timed screenshots.
Summary
- Press the PrtScn key.
- Use Windows + Shift + S.
- Press Alt + PrtScn.
- Use the Snip & Sketch app.
- Use Windows Key + PrtScn.
Conclusion
Learning how to print screen on Windows 10 is a simple yet handy skill that can save you time and effort. Whether you’re capturing an error message to troubleshoot, sharing a funny meme with friends, or saving important information for later, knowing these methods ensures you can quickly capture whatever you need from your screen.
By mastering these steps, you’ll be equipped to handle a variety of situations that require screenshots, making you a more efficient and tech-savvy user. And remember, practice makes perfect. The more you use these tools, the faster and more intuitive they will become.
For further reading, consider exploring additional features like screen recording or using third-party applications for more advanced screenshot options. Happy screenshotting!
Matthew Burleigh has been a freelance writer since the early 2000s. You can find his writing all over the Web, where his content has collectively been read millions of times.
Matthew received his Master’s degree in Computer Science, then spent over a decade as an IT consultant for small businesses before focusing on writing and website creation.
The topics he covers for MasterYourTech.com include iPhones, Microsoft Office, and Google Apps.
You can read his full bio here.