Taking a screenshot of just one screen when you have dual monitors on Windows 10 might sound tricky, but it’s actually quite simple. All you need is the right keyboard combination and a bit of know-how to capture exactly what you need. Here’s a quick and easy guide to get you started.
Step-by-Step Tutorial for Taking a Screenshot of One Screen with Dual Monitors Windows 10
Capturing a screenshot from just one of your dual monitors in Windows 10 can be done efficiently by following these steps. Here’s how you can accomplish it:
Step 1: Focus on the Desired Screen
First, click on the screen you want to capture to make it the active window.
Position your mouse over the screen you wish to capture and click to ensure it’s the active window. This is crucial because only the active screen will be captured.
Step 2: Press the Right Keyboard Combination
Next, press "Alt + Print Screen" on your keyboard.
When you press “Alt + Print Screen,” Windows 10 will capture an image of only the active window, ignoring any other monitors you might have.
Step 3: Open an Image Editor
Open any image editing software, like Microsoft Paint or Photoshop.
You need an image editor to paste and save your screenshot. Microsoft Paint comes pre-installed, so it’s usually the easiest choice.
Step 4: Paste the Screenshot
Once your image editor is open, press "Ctrl + V" to paste the screenshot.
This action will insert the captured screenshot into your image editor, allowing you to see and further edit it if necessary.
Step 5: Save the Screenshot
Finally, save the screenshot by pressing "Ctrl + S" and choosing your desired location.
Choose a file name and location for your screenshot to keep your files organized. You can save it as a JPEG, PNG, or another format depending on your needs.
After you complete these steps, your screenshot of just one screen will be saved to your chosen location, ready for use. It’s a handy trick that ensures you capture exactly what you need without any extra clutter from your second monitor.
Tips for Taking a Screenshot of One Screen with Dual Monitors Windows 10
- Use Keyboard Shortcuts: Remember that "Alt + Print Screen" captures only the active window, making it perfect for dual monitors.
- Use Snipping Tool for Precision: For more control, use the Snipping Tool or Snip & Sketch, which allows you to select specific areas.
- Label Your Screens: This helps in quickly identifying which screen you need to make active before taking a screenshot.
- Check Clipboard Settings: Ensure your clipboard is working correctly to avoid issues when pasting the screenshot.
- Regularly Save Your Work: Screenshots can be easily overwritten or lost, so save your work promptly.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I make a specific screen active?
Simply click on any window or the desktop on the screen you want to make active. This ensures that your screenshot captures only that screen.
Can I use this method to capture part of a screen?
No, "Alt + Print Screen" captures the entire active window. For a specific part, use Snip & Sketch or the Snipping Tool.
What if the Print Screen key doesn’t work?
Check if the Print Screen key is enabled in your system settings or try using the "Fn" key if you’re on a laptop.
Can I capture the taskbar as well?
Yes, the taskbar will be included if it’s on the active screen. Otherwise, use a full-screen capture tool if you need the taskbar from both screens.
Is there a way to save screenshots automatically?
Yes, using "Windows + Print Screen" will save a full-screen screenshot automatically to the ‘Screenshots’ folder in your Pictures library.
Summary
- Focus on the desired screen.
- Press "Alt + Print Screen."
- Open an image editor.
- Paste the screenshot.
- Save the screenshot.
Conclusion
Taking a screenshot of one screen with dual monitors on Windows 10 is a straightforward task once you know the steps. By focusing on the desired screen and using the "Alt + Print Screen" keyboard combination, you can easily capture the image you need without any unwanted extra monitor content.
Remember, tools like Snipping Tool or Snip & Sketch are available for more precise captures. If you face any issues, checking your clipboard settings and ensuring your Print Screen key is functioning can solve most problems.
Whether you’re creating tutorials, sharing work, or just saving information, mastering this simple method can make your digital life much easier. Now that you know how to take a screenshot of one screen with dual monitors on Windows 10, give it a try and see how much more efficient your workflow becomes!
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.