Taking a screenshot means capturing what is currently on your computer screen as an image.
If you’ve never done this before, don’t worry — you won’t break anything.
This guide shows you simple ways to take a screenshot on a Windows computer, using clear steps and plain English. You can take your time and try each method safely.
What Is a Screenshot?
A screenshot is a picture of what you see on your screen.
People often take screenshots to:
- Show someone a problem
- Save information
- Share something by email or message
Once taken, a screenshot is saved as an image file that you can view, send, or delete.
Method 1: Use the Print Screen Key (Entire Screen)
This is the simplest method.
Steps:
- Find the Print Screen key on your keyboard
(it may say PrtScn, Prt Scr, or similar) - Press the Print Screen key once
- Your screen is copied — nothing visible will happen yet
You can now paste the screenshot into an email or document.
Method 2: Alt + Print Screen (One Window Only)
Use this if you only want to capture one open window, not the whole screen.
Steps:
- Click on the window you want to capture
- Hold down the Alt key
- While holding Alt, press Print Screen
- The active window is copied
This is useful if you don’t want other things on your screen included.
Method 3: Windows + Shift + S (Snipping Tool)
This method lets you choose exactly what to capture.
Steps:
- Hold down Windows key + Shift + S
- The screen will dim slightly
- Use your mouse to select the area you want
- Release the mouse button
Your screenshot is copied and ready to paste.
Where Screenshots Are Saved
This depends on how you took the screenshot.
- Print Screen or Alt + Print Screen
→ The image is copied (you must paste it somewhere) - Windows + Print Screen
→ Saved automatically in Pictures → Screenshots
If you’re unsure how to find saved files, this guide may help:
👉 How to Find a File on Your Computer
Common Questions (Helpful Answers)
Where did my screenshot go?
If nothing appeared, the screenshot was copied.
Try pasting it into an email, document, or image editor.
Why can’t I find my screenshot?
If you used Windows + Print Screen, check the Screenshots folder inside Pictures.
Can I delete screenshots?
Yes. Screenshots are just image files. You can delete them like any other picture.
Will taking screenshots damage my computer?
No. Screenshots are completely safe and won’t affect your computer.
Good to Know
If screenshots feel confusing at first, that’s normal.
Most people need a few tries before it feels comfortable.
You can practice safely and delete any screenshots you don’t need.
Helpful Next Guides
These guides work well together if you plan to send screenshots to someone.