Capturing a screenshot of your computer screen is a straightforward yet highly useful task. Whether you’re trying to show an error message, create instructional content, or simply save something interesting you found online, knowing how to use the Print Screen function will be immensely handy. In this guide, we’ll cover various ways to copy your screen using the Print Screen button across different operating systems and additional tools that can make the process even more efficient.
What is Print Screen?
The Print Screen key (often abbreviated as PrtSc, PrtScn, or PrtScrn) is found on most keyboards and is specifically designed to capture the current screen display. Once you hit the Print Screen key, the captured image is usually saved to your clipboard, where it can be pasted into a document or an image editing program.
Print Screen Key Locations on Different Keyboards
| Keyboard Type | Print Screen Key Location |
|---|---|
| Standard Desktop Keyboard | Located on the top row, usually near the F12 key |
| Laptop Keyboard | Frequently combined with other keys such as FN (Function key) |
| Mac Keyboard | Print Screen function found through different key combinations |
How to Use Print Screen on Windows
Using the Print Screen Key
On Windows, the simplest way to capture your screen is by pressing the PrtScn key. Here are a few variations:
- PrtScn: Captures the entire screen and copies it to the clipboard.
- Alt + PrtScn: Captures only the active window.
- Win + Shift + S: Opens the snipping tool where you can select the area you wish to capture.
- Win + PrtScn: Captures the entire screen and saves it directly to the Pictures library in a folder named Screenshots.
Using Snipping Tool
The Snipping Tool is a built-in Windows utility that provides more control over your screenshots:
- Open the Snipping Tool by searching for it in the Windows Start menu.
- Click “New” to start a new screenshot.
- Select the area of the screen you want to capture.
- Save your screenshot by clicking on the “Save Snip” button.
Snip & Sketch Tool
Windows 10 and later versions feature Snip & Sketch, an upgraded version of the Snipping Tool:
- Press Win + Shift + S
- The screen will dim, and you can select the area to capture.
- A notification will appear; you can click it to edit the screenshot in the Snip & Sketch window.
How to Use Print Screen on macOS
Key Combinations for Screenshots
Mac users can use the following combinations to capture their screens:
- Command (⌘) + Shift + 3: Captures the entire screen.
- Command (⌘) + Shift + 4: Allows you to select a specific area.
- Command (⌘) + Shift + 4 + Space: Captures a specific window or menu.
Using Grab Utility
macOS also comes with an application called Grab that provides more screenshot options:
- Open “Grab” from the Utility folder.
- Select the type of screenshot you need from the “Capture” menu.
- Save your screenshot using the “File” menu.
How to Use Print Screen on Linux
On Linux systems, the Print Screen functionality is fairly straightforward and similar to Windows:
- PrtScn: Captures the entire screen and saves it to the Pictures folder.
- Alt + PrtScn: Captures the active window.
- Shift + PrtScn: Allows you to select a specific area.
Additionally, Linux users can rely on screenshot tools like Shutter, which offer advanced features including timed screenshots, screen annotations, and more.
Additional Tools for Taking Screenshots
If the built-in tools aren’t satisfactory, several third-party applications offer enhanced screenshot functionalities:
- Snagit: A powerful tool for capturing screenshots and recording screen activity.
- Lightshot: Allows for quick, easy, and customizable screenshots.
- Greenshot: Another excellent choice for Windows users, with options for annotations and sharing.
- Gyazo: Perfect for capturing gifs and screenshots efficiently.
Conclusion
The Print Screen function is an essential feature that makes it easy to capture, save, and share your screen contents. Whether you’re using Windows, macOS, or Linux, there are multiple ways to take a screenshot effectively. Additional tools and utilities can enhance your screenshot experience, making it easier to capture exactly what you want. Try out these tips and tools to become a screenshot pro in no time.