The screenshot shortcuts can be extremely useful in different work scenarios. With one capture of whatever you seek from the screen, note-making becomes super fast. Also, you can include references in your presentation with screenshots. Just knowing the screenshot short keys will steadfast your research or work.
While the traditional method is to use the Print Screen shortcut, there are other ways as well. In this post, we have spilt the beans for all the methods available under the roof. You can thank us later!
How To Take Screenshot Shortcut In Laptop?
If you are wondering how to take ss in laptop, simply press the PrtScn key (Print Screen button) or use the Snipping Tool. It is available on most keyboards’ upper-right side. This button can also be next to the Space Bar. Pressing it will copy an image of your entire screen to the clipboard. To paste it into a document, use ‘Ctrl + V.’
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Check out this amazing reel to learn how to take screenshot using screenshot shortcut keys in laptop keyboard.
Screenshot Shortcut Keys For Taking a Screenshot On Windows
The shortcut key for screenshot in laptop is Windows + PrtScn, which saves the screenshot automatically. However, there are multiple ways to get to the Windows screenshot shortcut. We will explain all of it.
Here are the steps on how to take screenshot in laptop featuring Windows software:
1. Use Screenshot Shortcut By Pressing The Print Screen Key
The first way to take a screenshot on a laptop is the most common one. It has been used since the early days of Windows. This method is called the “Print Screen” shortcut. Just press the Print Screen key on your keyboard. You can also press CTRL + Print Screen to take a screenshot.
When you press the Print Screen key, Windows takes a full-screen screenshot and saves it to the clipboard. You can then paste the image into an image editing tool, like Paint. After that, you can save the screenshot as a file and make any changes you want. This method works in both Windows 10 and Windows 7.
On some laptops, the laptop screenshot shortcut may require pressing Fn + PrtScn together.
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2. Take The Screenshot By Pressing The Win + Print Screen keys
Want to take a screenshot of your entire screen and save it as an image? Try the screenshot in laptop shortcut key. You can do this without extra software by using a simple shortcut. On a Windows 11 PC, press Win + Print Screen to capture the full screen and save it to your computer.
By using this, the operating system saves the image to Screenshots. These can be inside your Pictures folder.
The standard location for your Windows 11 screenshots should be–
- C:\Users\Your User Name\Pictures\Screenshots.
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3. Screenshot Shortcut By Using The Windows + Shift + S Keyboard
Another quick shortcut for screenshot in laptop is Windows + Shift + S, which allows you to select a portion of the screen. Here are the steps valid for Windows 10 or Windows 11:
- Press Windows + Shift + S.
- Your screen will fade, and a crosshair cursor will appear.
- Click and hold the left mouse button, then drag the cursor over the area you want to capture.
- Release the mouse button (or lift your finger if using a touchscreen) to take the screenshot.
The screenshot will be copied to your clipboard.
4. Take The Screenshot By Using The Gamebar
Another shortcut key for screenshot is the Windows 10 Game Bar. It can also record your screen, and even assist with broadcasts. It can also be used to take screenshots for other purposes.
Follow these steps to capture a screenshot using the Game Bar
- Press the Windows key + G on your keyboard to open the Game Bar.
- In the menu that appears, click the Capture icon.
- A Capture dialogue box appears. Click Capture to take your screenshot.
- This will capture the screenshot. You can locate it in your C:\users\yourname\Videos\Captures folder.
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While using PC, you can apply a similar method. The screenshot key on PC is PrtScn (Print Screen). when you press it, it captures the entire screen that you are currently on. If you want to capture only the active window, you can use the shortcut Alt + PrtScn.
How To Take Screenshots On A Macbook?
To know how to take screenshot in laptop particularly in a Macbook, follow the steps below:
- Press Shift + Command + 3 to screenshot the entire screen.
- A thumbnail of the screenshot will appear in the corner of your screen. It will appear with a confirmation that a screenshot has been taken.
- If you want to edit this screenshot, click on the preview. If not, you’ll have to wait for the screenshot to be save.
To Capture A Portion Of The Screen:
- Press and hold Shift + Command + 4 together.
- A crosshair will appear. Drag the crosshair to select the area of the screen to capture.
- To move the selection, press and hold the Space bar while dragging. To cancel taking the screenshot, press the Esc (Escape) key.
- If you see a thumbnail in the corner of your screen, click it to edit the screenshot. Or wait for the screenshot to save to your desktop.
The above list shows some ways to take a screenshot on your PC.
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Using Built-In Screenshot Tools
Both Windows and macOS have easy tools to capture and edit screenshots without extra software!
| Tool | Platform | How to Use | Features | Quick Tip |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Windows Snipping Tool | Windows 10/11 | Press Windows + Shift + S or search “Snipping Tool” | You can click parts of the screen or full. Edit with text, arrows, or highlights. | Save as PNG/JPEG to share easily. |
| Mac Screenshot App | macOS | Press Shift + Command + 5 to open toolbar | Click screen, window, or area. You can record screen and set timer. | Hold Control to copy to clipboard instead of saving. |
A Quick Recap
| Action | Windows Shortcut | Mac Shortcut |
|---|---|---|
| Full Screen | Win + PrtScn | Shift + Command + 3 |
| Selected Area | Win + Shift + S | Shift + Command + 4 |
| Active Window | Alt + PrtScn | Shift + Command + 4 + Space |
Troubleshooting Screenshot Problems
Now, we understand that there can be issues when you are trying to capture a screenshot. In this section, we have analysed common problems while taking a screenshot and how to solve them. Let’s check it out:
Screenshot Shortcuts Not Working
If the shortcut to take the screenshot is not working. Here’s what to do:
- Check if the F-Lock key is on (turn it off).
- Press Fn + PrtScn on some laptops.
- Make sure your keyboard layout matches your language in Settings.
- You can also try an external keyboard to rule out hardware issues.
Screenshots Not Saving
Now, some users have faced issues with saving the screenshot after taking it. For this, you can:
- Check if the Screenshots folder exists at C:\Users\YourUserName\Pictures\Screenshots.
- You need to make sure that you have enough free space on your disk.
- You can save manually by pasting the screenshot into Paint or Photos and clicking “Save As.”
Blurry Screenshots
Sometimes, when you capture a screenshot, it can be blurry. But there is nothing to worry about. Here’s what you can do:
- Set display scaling to 100 per cent in Settings > System > Display (Windows).
- You can use the Snipping Tool or Lightshot for sharper screenshots.
- On Mac, enable “Optimise for Retina” in Preview.
Tips for Organising and Managing Screenshots
Now that you know how to take a screenshot on a laptop, let’s check out how to organise them:
- The best tip is to rename the files immediately after taking a screenshot. You can rename it in a way that makes it easier for you to search later.
- You can set up folders like ‘work’, ‘personal’, or something specific. You can do that by going to Pictures > Screenshots.
- You can also sync your screenshots folder with Google Drive or any other cloud platform for easy cross-device access.
- If you are using a macOS, you can also use the Tags features in Finder to label things.
- Make sure to delete outdated screenshots weekly or monthly to keep things organised.
Best Third Party Screenshot Tools For Advanced Features
Along with the tips mentioned, you can also use third-party tools. They are great and can give you advanced features. Let’s check out the options:
- You can use Lightshot (Windows, macOS). It’s a lightweight tool for quick captures. It comes with instant annotation, cloud upload, and sharing options. Press PrtScn (customisable) to activate.
- Second option is Snagit (Windows, macOS). It’s fantastic for professionals. Snagit supports scrolling screenshots, video recording, and advanced editing.
- Greenshot (Windows) is another good option. It is a free, open-source tool with features like capturing specific regions. You can also use annotations and export to various formats.
- ShareX (Windows) is a powerful, free tool for customisable workflows. It includes scrolling captures, GIF recording, and direct uploads to platforms like Imgur.
Conclusion: Screenshot Shortcut In Laptop
The screenshot shortcuts in laptop is not so complicated to find out. We have dedicated buttons as well. You can use different methods like built-in tools, quick shortcuts with command button and so on. Once you get in the practice, you can quickly take screenshots, maintaining your workflow. So, now when you see something important while browsing, just screenshot it!
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Frequently Asked Questions!
How to take screenshot in laptop?
To capture a screenshot on Windows 10 or Windows 11, press the Windows key + PrtScn. Your screen will dim, and the screenshot will be in the Screenshots folder.
How do you capture a screenshot on a PC?
Capture the entire screen by pressing the PrtScn button in the top right of keyboard. This button, when pressed, copies an image of the screen to the clipboard.
How do you take a screenshot on a laptop Windows 10?
Take a screenshot on your Windows 10 laptop by pressing the Windows key + Print Screen key. You’ll notice screen dimming, indicating that screenshot has been taken.
How do I put a screenshot on my laptop screen?
Insert a screenshot onto your laptop screen by selecting Insert > Pictures > Picture. Navigate to the folder where the image is, choose the image, and click Insert.
What is the screenshot key on a laptop?
The screenshot key is usually the Print Screen (PrtSc) button. It’s often found in the top row of your keyboard.
How do I take a screenshot on my laptop with the Shift key?
Press Shift + Windows Key + S to open the snipping tool. Then, select the part of the screen you want to capture.
How do I take a full screenshot on my laptop?
Press Print Screen (PrtSc) to capture the entire screen. You can paste it into an app like Paint or Word to save it.
How do I take a screenshot on my laptop not working?
If the screenshot shortcut key isn’t working, try these:
- Use Shift + Windows Key + S for the snipping tool.
- Update your keyboard drivers.
- Use a third-party screenshot app.
Where is my screenshot on the laptop?
Screenshots are usually saved in the Screenshots folder under Pictures. If you use a snipping tool, you might need to save it manually.
Why can’t I take Screenshots on my PC?
You might not be able to take screenshots if your keyboard’s Print Screen key isn’t working, or if an app or security setting blocks the feature. Please check if the F-lock is turned off. The Print screen key won’t work if this function button is On. Press it once and then try using the Print Screen again.
What is the PC control for screenshot?
Press PrtSc to capture the whole screen, Alt + PrtSc for the active window, or Windows + Shift + S to select a specific area.
What is the easiest screenshot tool?
The easiest built-in tools are Snipping Tool or Snip & Sketch, which allow you to capture and edit screenshots easily.
What is F12 screenshot?
The F12 function button on the keyboard is usually used for taking screenshots on a gaming platform called Steam. Otherwise, it is only to open developer tools in browsers, not for screenshots, unless customized through specific software.
How to scroll a screenshot in PC?
To capture a scrolling screenshot, you can use tools like Snagit or PicPick. These tools can capture long pages or documents.
If you have any other questions, do let us know in the comments below!
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