how to save screenshot on windows 10
Taking a screenshot on Windows 10 is a quick and easy way to capture what’s on your screen. You can use built-in tools like the Snipping Tool, Snip & Sketch, or keyboard shortcuts to get the job done. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you take and save screenshots effectively.
Step-by-Step Tutorial: How to Save Screenshot on Windows 10
In this tutorial, you’ll learn how to capture and save screenshots using different methods available in Windows 10.
Step 1: Press the PrtScn (Print Screen) Button
Pressing the PrtScn button captures the entire screen.
When you press the PrtScn button, the entire screen is copied to the clipboard. From here, you can paste it into any image editing software, like Paint, and then save the file.
Step 2: Use Windows + PrtScn
Pressing Windows + PrtScn saves the screenshot directly to your Pictures folder.
This method saves the screenshot automatically to the "Screenshots" folder in your Pictures library. It’s quick and convenient for those who don’t want to use an image editor.
Step 3: Use Alt + PrtScn
Pressing Alt + PrtScn captures the active window only.
This is handy if you only want to capture a specific window rather than the entire screen. After pressing these keys, you’ll need to paste the screenshot into an image editor to save it.
Step 4: Use Snipping Tool
Open the Snipping Tool and click "New" to capture a custom screenshot.
The Snipping Tool allows you to select a specific area of the screen to capture. After capturing, you can save the screenshot directly from the Snipping Tool interface.
Step 5: Use Snip & Sketch
Open Snip & Sketch and click "New" to create a new screenshot.
Snip & Sketch offers more advanced features than the Snipping Tool. You can annotate your screenshots before saving them, which is useful for adding notes or highlighting important parts of the image.
After completing these steps, your screenshots will be saved in your desired location. You can now use them for presentations, tutorials, or sharing with others.
Tips for Saving Screenshots on Windows 10
- Use Keyboard Shortcuts: They are the quickest way to capture and save screenshots.
- Organize Your Screenshots: Keep your screenshots in a dedicated folder to easily find them later.
- Annotate Important Screenshots: Use Snip & Sketch to add notes or highlights.
- Backup Your Screenshots: Save important screenshots to a cloud service like OneDrive or Google Drive.
- Learn Advanced Tools: Familiarize yourself with third-party screenshot tools for more features.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I take a screenshot if the Print Screen button is not working?
You can use the Snipping Tool or Snip & Sketch as an alternative.
Where do my screenshots go when I use Windows + PrtScn?
They are saved in the "Screenshots" folder inside your Pictures library.
Can I take a screenshot of only one window?
Yes, use Alt + PrtScn to capture the active window.
How do I paste my screenshot into an image editor?
Open the image editor, then press Ctrl + V to paste the screenshot.
Are there any free third-party tools for screenshots?
Yes, tools like Lightshot and Greenshot offer additional features for free.
Summary
- Press PrtScn
- Press Windows + PrtScn
- Press Alt + PrtScn
- Use Snipping Tool
- Use Snip & Sketch
Conclusion
Saving screenshots on Windows 10 is a skill that can come in handy for many tasks, whether you’re documenting a process, saving a snippet of information, or sharing something interesting with friends. With multiple methods available, you can choose the one that best fits your needs. Whether you’re using the PrtScn button, Snipping Tool, or Snip & Sketch, Windows 10 makes it incredibly easy to capture and save screenshots.
By following this guide, you should now be comfortable with taking screenshots and knowing where to find them. If you’re looking to get more out of your screenshots, consider exploring third-party tools that offer additional features. Happy screenshotting!
Kermit Matthews is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with more than a decade of experience writing technology guides. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has spent much of his professional career in IT management.
He specializes in writing content about iPhones, Android devices, Microsoft Office, and many other popular applications and devices.