Screenshots have become a powerful tool in our digital lives. Whether you’re a student, a professional, or simply someone who wants to save information quickly, knowing how to take screenshot on Windows 10 is an essential skill.
In India especially, where remote work, online education, and digital communication are booming, mastering these screenshot techniques can save you time and effort.
In this detailed guide, we will cover every method, shortcut, and hidden trick available for taking screenshots on Windows 10. Plus, we’ll explore editing tools, fixes for common issues, and advanced tips for power users.
Here are some everyday moments when you might find them really useful:
Screenshots are extremely versatile. Here are a few situations where they could come in handy:
- Saving Important Information: Banking transactions, order confirmations, or government form submissions.
- Technical Support: Sharing a visual of an error message for faster troubleshooting.
- Work and Studies: Documenting meetings, assignments, and online lectures.
- Creative Work: Capturing ideas, designs, and research references.
“A picture can say a thousand words—especially when you’re trying to solve problems fast!”
Fun Fact: According to a survey by Statista, over 80% of Indian internet users use screenshots regularly for documentation purposes.
Quick Summary: 7 Easy Ways to Take Screenshot on Windows 10
Method | Shortcut | Best For |
---|---|---|
Print Screen (PrtScn) | PrtScn | Full-screen capture |
Windows + Shift + S | Win + Shift + S | Partial screen capture |
Snipping Tool | Search “Snipping Tool” | Customizable snips |
Snip & Sketch | Win + Shift + S | Quick editing after capture |
Windows + PrtScn | Win + PrtScn | Auto-saving screenshots |
Alt + PrtScn | Alt + PrtScn | Active window only |
Xbox Game Bar (Optional) | Win + G | Recording + screenshots |
Also Read : What is the proper way to maintain a laptop? A Step-by-Step Guide
Detailed Guide: How to Take Screenshot on Windows 10 Using Different Methods
Let’s now dive deep into each method so you can choose the best one for your needs.
1. How to Take Screenshot Using the Print Screen (PrtScn) Key
The Print Screen key is the easiest and oldest way to grab a screenshot.
Steps:
- Press the
PrtScn
key on your keyboard. - Open an image editor like Paint.
- Press
Ctrl + V
to paste the screenshot. - To save the file, just go to File > Save As.
Important Tips:
- The screenshot gets copied to the clipboard, but it’s not saved automatically..
- Some keyboards in India might label it as
PrtScn
,PrtSc
, orPrint Screen
.
Pro Tip: Combine
PrtScn
with theFn
key if the standard method doesn’t work on your laptop.
2. How to Take a Partial Screenshot with Windows + Shift + S
When you need more precision, the shortcut Windows + Shift + S is the best.
Steps:
- Press
Windows + Shift + S
together. - Your screen will dim slightly.
- Choose the capture type:
- Rectangular Snip (most popular)
- Freeform Snip
- Window Snip
- Full-screen Snip
- The screenshot is saved to the clipboard.
- Open an app like Paint or Word and paste it.
3. How to Use Snipping Tool to Capture Screenshots on Windows 10
The Snipping Tool is a classic utility, still found in many Windows 10 systems, especially in India where older laptops are common.
Steps:
- Search Snipping Tool from the Start Menu.
- Click New to start snipping.
- Drag to select the area you want.
- Save or edit your screenshot.
Pros:
- Very simple to use.
- Offers modes like Rectangular, Free-Form, and Window snips.
Note: Microsoft is planning to phase out Snipping Tool and suggests switching to Snip & Sketch.
4. How to Use Snip & Sketch for Taking Screenshots
The modern replacement for Snipping Tool is Snip & Sketch.
Steps:
- Press
Windows + Shift + S
or open Snip & Sketch from Start. - Capture the desired area.
- Edit immediately using available tools like Pen, Highlighter, and Crop.
- Save your screenshot.
Advantages:
- Easy editing after capture.
- Ability to set a delay for capturing pop-up menus.
5. How to Take a Screenshot with Windows + PrtScn Shortcut
If you want an instant save, use Windows + PrtScn.
Steps:
- Press
Windows + PrtScn
together. - The screen will flash slightly.
- You can find your screenshot by heading to
This PC > Pictures > Screenshots
.
Fact: Windows auto-saves your file as a PNG format, the best format for clear images.
6. How to Capture a Specific Window with Alt + PrtScn
Capturing only the active window can be a big time-saver.
Steps:
- Make sure the window you want is active.
- Press
Alt + PrtScn
. - Paste the capture into Paint or another app and save.
This method is ideal for focused tutorials or reporting software issues without capturing your entire desktop.
7. How to Take Screenshots Using the Xbox Game Bar (Optional)
Though Game Bar is often associated with gaming, it can also capture apps and tools.
Steps:
- Press
Windows + G
to open Game Bar. - Click the Camera icon to capture.
- Screenshots are saved automatically under
This PC > Videos > Captures
.
Bonus: How to Edit and Annotate Your Screenshots on Windows 10
After taking a screenshot, editing can make a huge difference. Here are your options:
Using Built-in Tools:
- Snip & Sketch: Add text, highlight, crop.
- Paint: Draw, insert shapes, resize easily.
Third-Party Tools:
Tool | Features | Best For |
---|---|---|
Lightshot | Quick edits, cloud saving | Bloggers, Students |
Greenshot | Advanced options, free | Professionals |
ShareX | High customization | Developers, Researchers |
Quote:
“With the right tool, a simple screenshot can say a whole lot more.”
Advanced Screenshot Tools for Windows 10
If you’re a heavy user, consider upgrading to more advanced tools:
1. Lightshot
- Lightweight and quick.
- Direct upload to cloud storage.
2. Greenshot
- Open-source.
- Annotate and highlight easily.
3. ShareX
- Full automation workflows.
- Perfect for software documentation.
Each of these tools offers features that basic Windows utilities might lack.
Common Screenshot Problems on Windows 10 and How to Fix Them
Problem: PrtScn Key Not Working
- Solution: Check if you need to use
Fn + PrtScn
. - Enable clipboard history settings.
Problem: Snip & Sketch Doesn’t Open
- Solution: Reinstall from Microsoft Store.
- Run Windows Update.
Problem: Shortcuts Not Responding
- Solution: Restart Windows Explorer from Task Manager.
Problem | Cause | Solution |
---|---|---|
No capture after pressing keys | Keyboard issues | External keyboard test |
Game Bar missing | Disabled by admin policies | Enable via Settings |
FAQs about How To Take Screenshot on Windows 10
What’s the easiest way to capture a scrolling screenshot on Windows 10?
Windows itself doesn’t support scrolling screenshots. Use tools like PicPick or ShareX for long web pages or documents.
Where are my screenshots saved in Windows 10?
- For Windows + PrtScn:
Pictures > Screenshots
- For Game Bar:
Videos > Captures
- For Snipping Tool and Snip & Sketch: Manual save needed.
Can I change the screenshot save location?
Yes.
- Right-click the
Screenshots
folder > Properties > Location > Move to a new destination.
Is there a way to schedule screenshots automatically?
Yes, apps like ShareX allow you to take timed screenshots based on your settings.
Conclusion: Best Methods to Take Screenshot on Windows 10 for Every Need
Knowing how to take screenshot on Windows 10 effectively can save you time, reduce errors, and improve your productivity — whether you are attending online classes in Delhi, working remotely from Mumbai, or managing a business in Hyderabad.
Quick Recommendations:
- Use Windows + Shift + S for daily needs.
- Use Windows + PrtScn for quick full-screen saves.
- Upgrade to Lightshot or ShareX if you need professional features.
By mastering these simple yet powerful methods, you’ll be better equipped to handle digital tasks efficiently.
Final Word
In today’s digital era, especially across India where technology adoption is skyrocketing, learning how to take screenshot on Windows 10 is a must-have skill.
“The perfect time to start learning new tech skills was yesterday. The next best time is right now!“