Class Notes: How to Take Screenshots in Windows 11 (and More)

Overview

Learn all the updated ways to take, annotate, and manage screenshots in Windows 11, leveraging the built-in Snipping Tool. The new features allow copying text from images, extracting QR code links, using annotation tools, and even recording your screen — all without third-party apps.

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1. Fastest Way to Take a Screenshot

• Windows Key + Print Screen (PrtScn)
  1. Screen momentarily flickers; screenshot is taken.
  2. Screenshot is copied to the clipboard (use Ctrl + V to paste).
  3. Screenshot file saved in:
     Pictures > Screenshots folder.

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2. Use of Print Screen Button

• Print Screen (by itself)
  • With latest updates, triggers the Snipping Tool overlay.
  • Default mode: Rectangular Snip; click and drag area to capture.
  • Screenshot:
    • Saved to clipboard
    • Saved in File Explorer > Pictures > Screenshots
  • Option to turn this behavior off in Settings.

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3. Alternative Shortcuts & Access

• Windows + Shift + S
  • Opens Snipping Tool overlay.
• Access via Start Menu
  • Type "Snip" > Enter > Opens Snipping Tool App.
  • Can be pinned to Start for quick access.

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4. Screenshot Modes in Snipping Tool

• Rectangular: Draw a rectangle around the area to capture.
• Window: Click to select & capture a dialog box or window.
• Full Screen: Captures entire display (like Windows + PrtScn).
• Freeform: Draw a custom area to capture.

Delayed Screenshot:

• Use "Delay Snip" in the Snipping Tool for capturing time-sensitive UI elements.

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5. Annotating & Editing Screenshots

• Cropping: Trim image to specific area.
• Pen Tool: Freehand draw or write; customize color and thickness.
• Eraser Tool: Erase specific annotations or all markup.
• Highlighter: Emphasize sections; customizable.
• Shapes:
  • Add arrows, lines, rectangles, ovals
  • Adjust color, size, opacity, fill, and outline
• Emojis: Insert emojis into your screenshot.
• Clipboard Integration: All annotations auto-copied—use Ctrl + V to paste.

Ruler Tool:
Activate with Ctrl + R; position and rotate with mouse/wheel.

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6. More Functionality

A. Text from Images

• Use "Text Actions" to select and copy text from screenshots.
• Can also detect links in QR codes and open them in browser.

B. Quick Redact

• Quick Redact hides email addresses & phone numbers.
• Options to show/hide specific types of info, and remove all redactions.

C. Visual Search

• Visual Search with Bing: Right-click screenshot > find similar images online.

D. Further Editing

• Edit in Paint: Advanced editing, such as background removal and layers.

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7. Video Recording with Snipping Tool

• Windows + Shift + R to record the screen (video mode).
• Select area, record actions, and (optionally) include mic input.
• Video saved in: Videos > Screen Recordings folder.
• For editing: Open in Clipchamp (may need installation from Microsoft Store).

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8. Adjusting Snipping Tool Settings

• Access via More Options > Settings in Snipping Tool
  • Toggle automatic save to Screenshots/Recordings folders.
  • Option for asking before saving edited screenshots.
  • Enable/disable microphone for recordings by default.
  • Change Print Screen key behavior to open/disable Snipping Tool.
  • Manage other preferences.

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9. Key Takeaways

• Windows 11's Snipping Tool is now vastly improved.
• Multiple screenshot and annotation options, all built-in and free.
• Additional features are rolling out, so updates may bring more functionality.
• No need for third-party apps for most screenshot/annotation needs.

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End Notes

• Give the Snipping Tool a try; it's included with Windows for free.
• For further functionalities, check for the latest versions and updates.
• Consider subscribing to the original channel for more tech tips!

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