How to Take Screenshots on Windows Without Third-Party Software

This guide provides five methods to take screenshots on Windows using built-in tools. Additionally, a bonus tip is included to simplify the process further.

Methods for Taking Screenshots

1. Win + Print Screen:

   • Pressing Win + Print Screen saves the screenshot to the Pictures/Screenshots folder.
   • The screenshot is also stored in the clipboard for immediate pasting into any program.

2. Ctrl + Print Screen:

   • This combination only places the screenshot in the clipboard without saving it to the disk.
   • Allows pasting into any program, but requires manual saving.

3. Alt + Print Screen:

   • Captures only the active window, not the full screen.
   • Places the screenshot in the clipboard, requiring manual saving.

4. Snipping Tool (Win + Shift + S):

   • Activates a toolbar for capturing a rectangle, window, full screen, or free-form area.
   • Saves the screenshot to the Pictures/Screenshots folder and clipboard.

5. Windows + G (Game Bar):

   • Opens the game bar; click the "Capture" button to take a screenshot of the active window.
   • Saves to Videos/Capture; does not save to clipboard.

Bonus Tip: Using Print Screen Key

• Configure Print Screen Settings:

  • Navigate to Start Menu > Settings > Accessibility > Keyboard Settings.

  • Option available to use Print Screen to open screen capture tools.

  • Setting:

    • Off: Print Screen acts like Ctrl + Print Screen, placing a full screenshot in the clipboard.
    • On: Print Screen opens the snipping tool, enabling selection of capture type.

By utilizing these methods and settings adjustments, you can efficiently capture and manage screenshots for various requirements. If you found this guide helpful, considering sharing or giving feedback.