Digital Life · Smartphones & Computers · Windows Basics

How to Take a Screenshot on Windows

The fastest way to take a Windows screenshot is Win + Shift + S. You can also use Print Screen or the Snipping Tool.

A computer desktop showing a Windows operating system, with a keyboard in the foreground and a blue highlight over the Print Screen key.
To take a screenshot on Windows, locate and press the Print Screen (PrtSc) key on your keyboard.
Quick answer:

The fastest way to take a Windows screenshot is Win + Shift + S. You can also use Print Screen or the Snipping Tool.

  • Time needed1–3 minutes
  • DifficultyEasy
  • Works onWindows 10 and Windows 11
  • Last checkedJune 2026
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Before you start

Decide whether you need the whole screen, one window, or a selected area.

Important:

Do not continue if you are unsure which account, device or setting you are changing.

Step-by-step guide

  1. Use Win + Shift + S

    Follow this step carefully. Replace this placeholder with exact screenshots and final wording during editorial review.

  2. Select the area

    Follow this step carefully. Replace this placeholder with exact screenshots and final wording during editorial review.

  3. Open the notification

    Follow this step carefully. Replace this placeholder with exact screenshots and final wording during editorial review.

  4. Save the screenshot

    Follow this step carefully. Replace this placeholder with exact screenshots and final wording during editorial review.

  5. Use Print Screen for full screen

    Follow this step carefully. Replace this placeholder with exact screenshots and final wording during editorial review.

Tip:

For a production article, add original screenshots after the important steps. This makes the guide more useful and more trustworthy.

Common problems

ProblemWhat to try
The option is not visibleUpdate the app, use a desktop browser, or search inside settings.
The page looks differentInterfaces change. Use the closest matching menu name and check the official help page.
You are not sure what will be deletedStop and read the confirmation screen before you continue.

FAQ

Is this safe to do?

Yes, if you follow the steps carefully and avoid reset or delete options that are not part of the guide.

What should I check first?

Decide whether you need the whole screen, one window, or a selected area.

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Sources

About this guide

This guide was prepared by How-To Digital Editorial Team and reviewed by Editorial Review. Updated: 2026-06-12.