Taking partial screenshots in Windows 10 can be super handy for saving specific parts of your screen. Whether you need to capture an image, a portion of a document, or a section of a webpage, this guide will show you how to do it with ease. In no time, you’ll master this skill and be able to quickly capture exactly what you need.
How to Take Partial Screenshot in Windows 10
Here’s a detailed breakdown of how to take a partial screenshot in Windows 10 using built-in tools. Follow these steps to grab only the part of the screen you need.
Step 1: Open the Snip & Sketch Tool
First, press the Windows key + Shift + S to open the Snip & Sketch tool.
This key combination will dim your screen and bring up a small toolbar at the top. The toolbar provides options for capturing different types of screenshots.
Step 2: Select the Rectangular Snip Option
Next, click on the Rectangular Snip icon in the toolbar.
This option allows you to draw a rectangle around the area you want to capture. You can also choose other shapes like freeform if you prefer.
Step 3: Drag to Select the Area
Click and drag your mouse to select the area you want to capture.
As you drag, you’ll see a rectangle forming around the selected area. Release the mouse button when you have the desired section highlighted.
Step 4: Edit and Save Your Snip
After you release the mouse button, the screenshot is copied to your clipboard, and a notification appears. Click on the notification to open the Snip & Sketch app.
Inside the app, you can edit or annotate your screenshot before saving it. Use the pen, highlighter, or cropping tools for adjustments.
Step 5: Save Your Screenshot
Click on the disc icon in the top right corner to save your screenshot.
Choose your desired file name and location, then click "Save". Your partial screenshot is now stored on your computer.
Once you complete these steps, your partial screenshot will be ready for use. You can now insert it into documents, emails, or any other application where you need to use the captured image.
Tips for Taking Partial Screenshot in Windows 10
- Use keyboard shortcuts: Remember, Windows key + Shift + S is your quickest way to capture a partial screenshot.
- Explore different snip modes: Besides rectangular, there’s freeform, window, and full-screen snip options.
- Use the clipboard: Screenshots are immediately copied to your clipboard, making it easy to paste them anywhere.
- Try the delay feature: If you need to capture a specific moment, use the delay feature in Snip & Sketch.
- Annotate your screenshots: Use the built-in tools to add notes or highlights before saving your snip.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I access Snip & Sketch?
You can quickly access Snip & Sketch by pressing Windows key + Shift + S, or you can search for it in the Start menu.
Can I capture a partial screenshot using other tools?
Yes, other tools like the Snipping Tool or third-party software like Lightshot can also capture partial screenshots.
What happens if I don’t save my screenshot?
If you don’t save your screenshot, it stays in your clipboard until you overwrite it with another copy or restart your computer.
Can I take partial screenshots of videos?
Yes, you can capture any part of your screen, including videos, using the same steps.
Is Snip & Sketch available on all versions of Windows 10?
Snip & Sketch is available on Windows 10 versions starting from the October 2018 Update (version 1809) and later.
Summary
- Step 1: Open the Snip & Sketch Tool
- Step 2: Select the Rectangular Snip Option
- Step 3: Drag to Select the Area
- Step 4: Edit and Save Your Snip
- Step 5: Save Your Screenshot
Conclusion
Taking partial screenshots in Windows 10 is a breeze once you get the hang of it. Using the Snip & Sketch tool, you can capture, edit, and save specific sections of your screen with ease. This feature is incredibly useful for sharing precise information without showing your whole screen. For more practice, try experimenting with the different snip modes and editing tools available in Snip & Sketch. If you want to delve deeper, explore third-party screenshot tools that might offer additional features. Now that you’ve got the basics down, go ahead and start capturing those perfect screenshots on your Windows 10 system!

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.