Windows makes it easy to create an image of what's on the screen. PC keyboards have a "Print Screen" key, which used to actually print the screen image to an attached printer. This key may have some abbreviated variation of "Print Screen," such as "PrtScn." (It may take some creative reading to figure out which key is the correct one on your keyboard.)
Nowadays, the "Print Screen" key doesn't actually print anything. Instead it captures the screen image and places it on the Clipboard. If, instead of capturing the entire screen, you want to only capture the active window, just hold down the Alt key when you press "Print Screen." If you really want to print whatever you've captured, paste the Clipboard contents into an image-capable application (like Microsoft Word or a dedicated graphics program) and print from there.
If you are using Windows 8 or Windows 10, you should be aware that Microsoft has enhanced and modified the ability to capture a screen. You can find more information about it in this WindowsTip.
Another way to capture a screen shot is to use the Snipping Tool. One of the Snipping Tool's options is to do a full-screen snip. The Snipping Tool also has a window snip option that allows you to capture a window or dialog box.
This tip (12560) applies to Windows 7, 8, and 10.
There may be times when you need to insert special characters that aren't found on your keyboard. Windows provides a ...
Discover MoreThe Mail app is a great way to access your e-mail. This tip shows you how to get started quickly and easily.
Discover MoreKeeping track of the weather for various locations and staying on top of weather news can help you plan for activities ...
Discover More2019-04-22 13:21:38
Allan
If you want something more than the builtin Windows Print Screen, give Gadwin PrintScreen a try (FREE).
Gadwin PrintScreen is an easy to use freeware utility that allows you to capture any portion of the screen, save it to a file, copy it to Windows clipboard, print it or e-mail it to a recipient of your choice. There are also six different image formats to choose from, and each one can be resized.
Copyright © 2025 Sharon Parq Associates, Inc.
Comments