What To Know
- Whether you’re an ASUS VivoBook user trying to capture a specific web page, a funny meme, or a technical error, mastering the art of screenshotting is key.
- The screenshot will be saved as a PNG file in the “Pictures” folder under a “Screenshots” subfolder.
- A free and open-source tool that provides a wide range of screenshot and screen recording options, including uploading to various services.
Taking screenshots is an essential skill for anyone using a computer, especially if you frequently need to share information or document issues. Whether you’re an ASUS VivoBook user trying to capture a specific web page, a funny meme, or a technical error, mastering the art of screenshotting is key. This guide will equip you with the knowledge and techniques to capture any screen content with ease.
The Classic Keyboard Shortcut: Print Screen (PrtScn)
The most basic and widely recognized method for taking screenshots is using the “Print Screen” (PrtScn) key on your keyboard. This key captures the entire screen, including your desktop, open windows, and taskbar.
Here’s how to do it:
1. Press the “Print Screen” (PrtScn) key. You might find this key labeled as “PrtSc” or “Print Scrn” on some keyboards.
2. Open an image editor like Paint or Photoshop.
3. Paste the screenshot. You can usually do this by pressing Ctrl ++ V.
4. Save the screenshot. You can choose a file name and location for your screenshot.
The “Alt + Print Screen” Combo for Capturing Specific Windows
Sometimes, you might only need to capture a specific window instead of the entire screen. The “Alt + Print Screen” shortcut comes in handy for these situations.
Follow these steps:
1. Open the window you want to capture.
2. Press and hold the “Alt” key.
3. Press the “Print Screen” (PrtScn) key.
4. Open an image editor and paste the screenshot.
The Snipping Tool: A Versatile Screenshot Option
Windows comes equipped with a handy tool called the “Snipping Tool” that provides more control over your screenshots. You can use it to capture rectangular areas, free-form shapes, or even full-screen windows.
To use the Snipping Tool:
1. Search for “Snipping Tool” in the Windows search bar.
2. Open the Snipping Tool application.
3. Select the type of snip you want:
- Rectangular snip: Capture a rectangular area.
- Free-form snip: Capture a free-form shape.
- Window snip: Capture an entire window.
- Full-screen snip: Capture the entire screen.
4. Click “New” to start capturing.
5. Select the area you want to capture.
6. The screenshot will be automatically saved to your clipboard. You can then paste it into an image editor or other applications.
The Windows Key + Shift + S Shortcut for Quick Snips
For even faster and more intuitive screenshotting, Windows 10 and later versions offer a convenient keyboard shortcut: Windows Key + Shift + S. This shortcut activates a “Quick Snip” mode, allowing you to capture a rectangular area, free-form shape, or full screen instantly.
Here’s how to use it:
1. Press the Windows Key + Shift + S simultaneously.
2. A small toolbar will appear at the top of your screen.
3. Select the type of snip you want.
4. Select the area you want to capture.
5. The screenshot will be automatically saved to your clipboard. You can then paste it into an image editor or other applications.
Saving Screenshots Directly to Your Files
Instead of copying screenshots to the clipboard, you can directly save them to your computer’s files. To do this, you can use the “Windows Key + Print Screen” shortcut.
Here’s how it works:
1. Press the Windows Key + Print Screen keys simultaneously.
2. A notification will appear indicating that the screenshot has been saved.
3. The screenshot will be saved as a PNG file in the “Pictures” folder under a “Screenshots” subfolder.
Using Third-Party Screenshot Tools
While Windows offers built-in screenshot tools, several third-party applications provide more advanced features, including annotations, editing, and sharing options. Popular screenshot tools include:
- Lightshot: A free and lightweight tool that allows you to capture any area of your screen and easily share it online.
- Snagit: A powerful and feature-rich screenshot tool that offers advanced editing, annotation, and video recording capabilities.
- ShareX: A free and open-source tool that provides a wide range of screenshot and screen recording options, including uploading to various services.
Choosing the Right Screenshot Method for Your Needs
With various screenshot methods available, you can choose the one that best suits your requirements. Here’s a quick comparison:
| Method | Advantages | Disadvantages |
| —————————– | ——————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————— | ——————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————– |
| Print Screen (PrtScn) | Captures the entire screen quickly and easily. | Requires pasting into an image editor, doesn’t allow for selective capturing. |
| Alt + Print Screen | Captures a specific window. | Requires pasting into an image editor, doesn’t allow for selective capturing within the window. |
| Snipping Tool | Offers flexibility with different snip types (rectangular, free-form, window, full-screen). | Can feel cumbersome for quick captures. |
| Windows Key + Shift + S | Provides quick and easy access to a screenshot tool with different snip types. | Doesn’t offer advanced features like editing or annotation. |
| Windows Key + Print Screen | Saves screenshots directly to your files without requiring pasting. | Doesn’t allow for selective capturing or editing. |
| Third-party screenshot tools | Offer advanced features like editing, annotation, sharing, and recording capabilities. | May require installation and learning curve. |
Beyond Basic Screenshots: Taking Advantage of Advanced Features
Modern operating systems and third-party tools offer a variety of advanced screenshot features to enhance your capturing experience. Here are a few notable examples:
- Scrolling Screenshots: Capture entire web pages or long documents that extend beyond the screen.
- Delayed Screenshots: Set a timer to capture your screen after a specific time delay, useful for capturing dynamic content.
- Video Recording: Record your screen activity, including audio, for tutorials, presentations, or gameplay.
- Annotation and Editing: Add text, arrows, highlights, and other annotations to your screenshots.
- Sharing Options: Easily share your screenshots to social media, cloud storage, or messaging apps.
Mastering the Art of Screenshotting: A Final Thought
Taking screenshots is a fundamental skill for any computer user, and mastering it can significantly enhance your productivity and communication. By exploring the various methods and tools available, you can choose the most efficient and effective approach for your individual needs. Whether you’re capturing a quick snapshot or creating a detailed visual guide, screenshotting empowers you to share information, document processes, and express yourself visually.
Quick Answers to Your FAQs
Q: Can I take a screenshot on my ASUS VivoBook using a smartphone?
A: Yes, you can use a smartphone app to take a screenshot of your ASUS VivoBook screen. Many apps are available on both iOS and Android platforms that allow you to connect your phone to your computer wirelessly and capture the screen. However, the quality of the screenshot may vary depending on the app and connection stability.
Q: How do I take a screenshot of a specific area on my screen?
A: You can use the Snipping Tool or the Windows Key + Shift + S shortcut to take screenshots of specific areas on your screen. These tools allow you to select a rectangular or free-form area to capture.
Q: What are some of the best third-party screenshot tools for ASUS VivoBooks?
A: Some popular third-party screenshot tools include Lightshot, Snagit, and ShareX. These tools offer advanced features like editing, annotation, and sharing options.
Q: Can I use the “Print Screen” key to capture a specific window?
A: No, the “Print Screen” key captures the entire screen. To capture a specific window, use the “Alt + Print Screen” combination.
Q: How do I make a scrolling screenshot of a long web page?
A: Some screenshot tools, like Lightshot and Snagit, offer scrolling screenshot capabilities. These tools capture the entire page, even if it extends beyond the screen. You can also use the Snipping Tool to capture multiple sections of a long page and then stitch them together in an image editor.
