How to Take a Screenshot Using Snipping Tool on Windows 11?
Taking screenshots with the Snipping Tool in Windows 11 is a simple process once you understand the interface and available options. The tool allows you to capture the entire screen, a specific window, or a selected portion of your screen. It also provides editing features such as drawing, highlighting, cropping, and saving in different formats.
The process starts by opening the Snipping Tool through the Start menu or using a keyboard shortcut. Once the tool is open, you can choose the type of screenshot you want. Windows 11 allows you to capture screenshots instantly or with a delay, which helps capture menus or pop-ups that disappear quickly.
After capturing the screenshot, the Snipping Tool displays it in a preview window where you can edit and save it. You can annotate your screenshot, copy it to the clipboard, or share it with other applications.
Understanding each step will help you capture screenshots quickly and efficiently.
So, what are we waiting for? Let’s understand the whole process step by step!
How to take a Screenshot Using Snipping Tool on Windows 11?
To take a screenshot using the Snipping Tool on Windows 11, open the Snipping Tool from the Start menu or press Windows + Shift + S on your keyboard. Select the snip mode, such as rectangular, freeform, window, or full screen. Drag your cursor over the area you want to capture. The screenshot will be copied to the clipboard and displayed in the Snipping Tool, where you can edit, save, or share it.
Let’s explore all the steps in detail!
Step 1: Open the Snipping Tool
The first step is to open the Snipping Tool on your Windows 11 computer. There are multiple ways to access it.
Click on the Start menu and type Snipping Tool in the search bar. When the app appears in the results, click on it to open. The Snipping Tool window will appear on your screen with options for capturing screenshots.
Another faster method is to use the keyboard shortcut Windows key + Shift + S. This shortcut immediately activates the screenshot toolbar at the top of your screen. It allows you to start capturing without opening the full application window.
If you frequently use screenshots, you can pin the Snipping Tool to the taskbar for quick access. Right-click on the Snipping Tool icon after opening it and select Pin to taskbar.
Step 2: Choose the Screenshot Mode
Once the Snipping Tool is open, you need to choose the type of screenshot you want to take. Windows 11 offers several screenshot modes to suit different needs.
The Rectangular snip allows you to drag a box around the area you want to capture. This is the most commonly used mode for capturing specific sections of the screen.
The Freeform snip lets you draw a custom shape around the area you want to capture. This mode is useful when you need to capture irregular shapes.
The Window snip captures a specific open window, such as a browser or application. Simply click on the window you want to capture, and the screenshot will be taken automatically.
The full-screen snip captures the entire screen instantly. This is helpful when you want to save everything visible on your display.
Selecting the right mode ensures that you capture exactly what you need without extra editing later.
Step 3: Set a Screenshot Delay if Needed
The Snipping Tool in Windows 11 includes a delay feature that allows you to capture screenshots after a few seconds. This feature is helpful when you need to capture dropdown menus, tooltips, or popups that disappear when you click elsewhere.
In the Snipping Tool window, look for the Delay option near the top. You can choose a delay of three seconds, five seconds, or ten seconds. Select the delay time that suits your needs.
After selecting the delay, click on the New button. The countdown will begin, giving you time to open the menu or screen you want to capture. Once the timer ends, the snipping mode will activate, allowing you to capture the screenshot.
Using the delay feature ensures you do not miss important elements on your screen.
Step 4: Capture the Screenshot
After selecting the mode and delay, it is time to capture your screenshot. Click the New button in the Snipping Tool or use the Windows + Shift + S shortcut.
Your screen will dim slightly, and the screenshot toolbar will appear at the top. Choose your desired snip mode if you have not already selected one.
Click and drag your cursor over the area you want to capture if you are using a rectangular or freeform snip. For window snip, click on the specific window. For full screen snip, the capture happens instantly.
Once the screenshot is taken, it is automatically copied to the clipboard. A notification will appear on the bottom right of your screen. Click the notification to open the screenshot in the Snipping Tool editor.
Capturing screenshots becomes faster with practice, especially when using keyboard shortcuts.
Step 5: Edit the Screenshot
After capturing your screen, the Snipping Tool editor opens with your screenshot displayed. This editor allows you to make quick changes before saving or sharing.
You can use the pen tool to draw on the screenshot and highlight important areas. The highlighter tool helps emphasize text or sections. The eraser tool allows you to remove annotations if needed.
The cropping tool lets you remove unwanted parts of the image. You can also use touch writing if you have a touchscreen device.
Editing screenshots directly in the Snipping Tool saves time and eliminates the need for additional editing software.
Step 6: Save the Screenshot
Once you are satisfied with your screenshot, you can save it to your computer. Click on the Save icon in the Snipping Tool window. Choose the folder where you want to save the file and give it a name.
Windows 11 allows you to save screenshots in different formats such as PNG, JPG, and GIF. PNG is recommended for high-quality images and clear text.
After saving, you can access the screenshot anytime from the selected folder. Saving screenshots properly helps you organize important information for future use.
Step 7: Share or Copy the Screenshot
The Snipping Tool also allows you to share screenshots directly. You can copy the image to the clipboard by clicking the Copy icon and paste it into emails, documents, or messaging apps.
You can also use the Share option to send the screenshot through supported applications such as email or Microsoft Teams. This feature is helpful for quick communication and collaboration.
Sharing screenshots instantly saves time and improves workflow efficiency.
Faqs
What is the shortcut to open Snipping Tool in Windows 11?
The keyboard shortcut to open the screenshot toolbar is Windows key + Shift + S. This shortcut lets you capture screenshots quickly without opening the full application.
Where are Snipping Tool screenshots saved?
Screenshots taken with the Snipping Tool are not saved automatically unless you choose to save them. After capturing, you must click Save and select a location. If you copy the screenshot only, it remains on the clipboard until you paste it somewhere.
Can I edit screenshots after capturing them?
Yes. The Snipping Tool editor allows you to draw, highlight, crop, and annotate screenshots. You can make basic edits before saving or sharing the image.
Can I take delayed screenshots in Windows 11?
Yes. The delay feature allows you to set a timer before capturing. You can choose three, five, or ten seconds to capture menus or pop-ups that require time to open.
Is Snipping Tool free in Windows 11?
Yes. The Snipping Tool is a built-in and free application included with Windows 11. You do not need to download or install any additional software.