Windows includes several ways to take screenshots. The best method depends on whether you want to select part of the screen, capture the entire screen to the clipboard, or save a full-screen image directly as a file.
Use Snipping Tool for Part of the Screen
- Press Windows + Shift + S.
- Choose the type of snip you want.
- Select the area of the screen to capture.
- Use the screenshot notification or open Snipping Tool if you want to mark up, save, or share the capture.
This is usually the most flexible method because you can capture only the information you need.
Use Print Screen for a Full-Screen Capture
On many keyboards, pressing PrtScn captures the screen or opens the configured screenshot experience. Print Screen behavior can vary with Windows settings and keyboard design, so do not assume it always saves a file automatically.
Save a Full-Screen Screenshot Directly
- Press Windows + PrtScn.
- Windows captures the screen and, on supported configurations, saves the screenshot automatically.
- Open File Explorer and check the Screenshots folder in your Pictures location.
On laptops, you may need to hold an Fn key as well, depending on how the manufacturer assigned the Print Screen key.
Clipboard vs. Saved File
A screenshot copied to the clipboard can be pasted into Paint, Word, an email, or another compatible app with Ctrl + V. A screenshot saved as a file can be attached or uploaded directly. If you cannot find a file after using a screenshot shortcut, the image may only be on the clipboard.
Summary
Use Windows + Shift + S for a selected area, Print Screen for the configured full-screen capture behavior, and Windows + PrtScn when you want Windows to save a full-screen screenshot automatically on supported PCs.