How to Take Screenshots in Windows 11

Taking screenshots in Windows 11 is a simple process and can be done using various methods, depending on what you want to capture. Follow these steps to take screenshots on your Windows 11 computer:

Method 1: Using the Snipping Tool

Step 1: Open the Snipping Tool

1. Click on the Start menu (Windows icon) at the bottom-left corner of your screen.
2. Type "Snipping Tool" in the search bar and click on the Snipping Tool app to open it.

Step 2: Choose a Snip Type

1. In the Snipping Tool, click on New.
2. Select the type of snip you want to take:
   • Rectangular Snip: Drag the cursor to create a rectangular shape.
   • Freeform Snip: Draw a freeform shape around the area you want to capture.
   • Window Snip: Click on the window you want to capture.
   • Fullscreen Snip: Capture the entire screen.

Step 3: Save or Edit the Screenshot

1. Once you take a snip, it will appear in the Snipping Tool editor.
2. You can annotate or edit the screenshot using the available tools.
3. Click on the Save icon to save the screenshot to your desired location.

Method 2: Using the Print Screen Key

Fullscreen Screenshot

1. Press the PrtScn key on your keyboard. This captures the entire screen and copies it to the clipboard.
2. Open an image editor (e.g., Paint) or a document where you want to paste the screenshot.
3. Press Ctrl + V to paste the screenshot.

Active Window Screenshot

1. Press Alt + PrtScn on your keyboard. This captures the active window and copies it to the clipboard.
2. Open an image editor (e.g., Paint) or a document where you want to paste the screenshot.
3. Press Ctrl + V to paste the screenshot.

Save Screenshot Directly to a File

1. Press Windows + PrtScn on your keyboard. This captures the entire screen and saves it directly to the Screenshots folder in your Pictures library.
2. The screenshot will be saved as a PNG file with the name "Screenshot (number).png".

Method 3: Using the Snip & Sketch Tool

Step 1: Open Snip & Sketch

1. Press Windows + Shift + S on your keyboard. This opens the Snip & Sketch toolbar.

Step 2: Choose a Snip Type

1. Select the type of snip you want to take:
   • Rectangular Snip: Drag the cursor to create a rectangular shape.
   • Freeform Snip: Draw a freeform shape around the area you want to capture.
   • Window Snip: Click on the window you want to capture.
   • Fullscreen Snip: Capture the entire screen.

Step 3: Save or Edit the Screenshot

1. Once you take a snip, it will appear as a notification. Click on the notification to open it in the Snip & Sketch editor.
2. You can annotate or edit the screenshot using the available tools.
3. Click on the Save icon to save the screenshot to your desired location.

Method 4: Using the Game Bar

Step 1: Open the Game Bar

1. Press Windows + G on your keyboard. This opens the Game Bar.

Step 2: Take a Screenshot

1. Click on the Camera icon in the Game Bar or press Windows + Alt + PrtScn to take a screenshot.
2. The screenshot will be saved in the Captures folder in your Videos library.

Additional Tips

• Editing Screenshots: You can use built-in tools like Paint, Photos, or third-party apps to edit your screenshots.
• Sharing Screenshots: Screenshots can be easily shared via email, social media, or messaging apps.

Conclusion

You have successfully learned how to take screenshots in Windows 11 using various methods. Whether you want to capture the entire screen, a specific window, or a custom area, these methods will help you capture exactly what you need.