
What are 3 ways to take a screenshot on a PC?
Taking a screenshot on a PC is a handy skill that can help you save information, create tutorials, report issues, or just hold onto a visual snippet of your screen. Whether you’re a casual user or a power user, knowing the different ways to take a screenshot can save time and streamline your workflow.
Windows offers multiple methods for capturing your screen, each suited to different needs. From built-in shortcuts to advanced screenshot tools, here are three effective ways to take a screenshot on a PC.
1. Using the Print Screen (PrtScn) Key
This is the most traditional and widely known method of capturing your screen. The Print Screen key, often labeled as PrtScn, allows you to capture the entire screen or the active window depending on how you use it.
- PrtScn Alone: Pressing this key by itself will capture the entire screen and copy it to your clipboard. You can then paste it into Paint, Word, or an email using Ctrl + V.
- Alt + PrtScn: This will capture only the currently active window, rather than your entire display.
- Windows Key + PrtScn: This combination captures the entire screen and saves the image automatically in the Pictures > Screenshots folder.
This method is convenient for quick captures but has limited editing options. However, it’s perfect for fast and simple needs.

2. Using the Snipping Tool or Snip & Sketch
Windows comes with two built-in tools that provide greater flexibility than the Print Screen key: the Snipping Tool and Snip & Sketch. Depending on your Windows version, you may have one or both.
- Snipping Tool: Available in older Windows versions, this utility lets you select from various snip types — free-form, rectangular, window, and full screen. After capturing the screen, you can annotate or save the image directly from the tool.
- Snip & Sketch: Introduced with Windows 10, this tool is an evolution of Snipping Tool. Press Windows Key + Shift + S to activate it instantly. You’ll get a mini-toolbar at the top of the screen allowing you to choose the part of the screen you want to capture. The screenshot gets copied to the clipboard, and a notification lets you edit it in Snip & Sketch’s editor.
These tools are ideal if you need more control over what you capture or want to do quick edits like highlighting or annotating images.
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3. Using Third-Party Software
If you’re looking for advanced capabilities like screen recording, timed captures, or cloud storage integration, many third-party applications are available. Programs like Lightshot, Greenshot, or ShareX provide enhanced screenshot features.
- Lightshot: A lightweight app that replaces your Print Screen function. It allows you to select a region and instantly upload, save, or edit the image.
- Greenshot: Designed for productivity, Greenshot lets you capture a region, window, or full screen and then directly open it in an editor or email client.
- ShareX: A powerful open-source tool with features like scrolling window capture, screen recording (GIF/video), and advanced upload destination settings.
Although these require installation, they offer tremendous value for users who regularly take and manage screenshots as part of their daily tasks.
Final Thoughts
Whether you opt for the simple Print Screen key, Windows’ built-in snipping tools, or feature-rich third-party apps, there’s a screenshot method tailored to every user. Getting comfortable with a couple of these options can boost productivity and help you communicate visually with clarity and precision.
So the next time you want to show someone a quirky error message, explain a step-by-step process, or just preserve an online receipt, remember—you’ve got more than one way to capture the moment.