How to take a screenshot on Windows or Mac
Capture the entire screen, one window, or a selected area using built-in Windows and macOS shortcuts.
Take a screenshot on Windows
Press Windows + Shift + S to open the Snipping Tool overlay. Choose a rectangular, freeform, window, or full-screen capture, then select the area you want. The result is copied so you can paste it, and a notification can open the image for editing and saving.
Pressing Print Screen can copy the entire screen, depending on the device settings. Windows + Print Screen commonly saves a full-screen image in the Pictures and Screenshots folder. Some compact keyboards require the Fn key as well.
Take a screenshot on a Mac
Press Shift + Command + 3 to capture the entire screen. Press Shift + Command + 4 and drag to capture a selected area. After pressing Shift + Command + 4, press the Space bar to capture a specific window.
Shift + Command + 5 opens the Screenshot app, where you can choose still captures, screen recording, a timer, and the save location.
Copy without immediately saving
On a Mac, add the Control key to a screenshot shortcut to copy the capture to the clipboard. You can then paste it into a message or document. On Windows, Snipping Tool and Print Screen commonly place the capture on the clipboard automatically.
If pasting does not work, open the capture notification or the built-in screenshot app and save the image first.
Check the image before sharing
A screenshot can reveal more than the area you intended to discuss. Review the final image at full size before uploading it anywhere.
- Crop out unrelated tabs and browser history.
- Cover email addresses, phone numbers, account numbers, and QR codes.
- Do not share passwords, recovery phrases, one-time codes, or identity documents.
- Check notifications and the menu bar for private information.
Frequently asked questions
Where are Windows screenshots saved?
Windows + Print Screen commonly saves them in Pictures > Screenshots. Snipping Tool may require you to choose Save.
Where are Mac screenshots saved?
They save to the desktop by default unless you choose another location in the Screenshot app options.
How do I capture only one Mac window?
Press Shift + Command + 4, press Space, then click the window.
Sources
Primary and official references used for this guide:
Published August 3, 2026 · Reviewed for clarity and source accuracy.