How to Clip on Windows 11 — A Step-by-Step Guide to Screenshots

Screenshots are one of the most useful features in Windows 11. Whether you want to capture an error message, save a snippet of a web page, or share a funny meme, knowing how to “clip” or take a screenshot can save you time.

Windows 11 offers several built-in ways to take screenshots, from quick keyboard shortcuts to advanced tools like the Snipping Tool. In this guide, we’ll walk you through all the methods step by step.

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📌 Why Learn to Clip on Windows 11?

Taking screenshots is helpful for:

• Work & school — Capture presentations, reports, or code snippets.

• Troubleshooting — Show error messages when asking for tech support.

• Gaming & entertainment — Save cool moments or achievements.

• Communication — Share only the part of the screen you need.

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🖼️ Method 1: Use the Snipping Tool (Best for Custom Clips)

Windows 11 comes with the Snipping Tool, which lets you take customized screenshots.

Steps:

1. Press Win + Shift + S.

2. Your screen will dim, and a small toolbar will appear at the top.

3. Choose from four options:

   • Rectangular Snip → Draw a rectangle to capture.

   • Freeform Snip → Draw a shape to capture.

   • Window Snip → Select a specific window.

   • Fullscreen Snip → Capture the entire screen.

4. The screenshot is copied to the clipboard.

5. Open an app (Word, Paint, or email) and press Ctrl + V to paste.

👉 A notification also appears — click it to open and edit in Snipping Tool.

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🖼️ Method 2: Print Screen (PrtScn) Key

The Print Screen key is the oldest way to capture your screen.

Options:

• PrtScn → Copies the whole screen to the clipboard.

• Alt + PrtScn → Captures only the active window.

• Win + PrtScn → Captures the whole screen and automatically saves it in Pictures > Screenshots.

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🖼️ Method 3: Snipping Tool App

Instead of the shortcut, you can open the app directly.

Steps:

1. Press Win + S, type Snipping Tool, and open it.

2. Click New to start a capture.

3. Select the snip type (Rectangular, Freeform, Window, Fullscreen).

4. Save or edit your screenshot.

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🖼️ Method 4: Game Bar (For Gaming & Recording)

The Xbox Game Bar is great for gamers but works anywhere in Windows.

Steps:

1. Press Win + G to open Game Bar.

2. Click the Camera icon (or press Win + Alt + PrtScn).

3. Screenshots are saved in Videos > Captures.

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🖼️ Method 5: Third-Party Screenshot Tools

If you need advanced features like annotations, scrolling captures, or cloud storage, try:

• ShareX (free, open-source).

• Lightshot (quick editing & sharing).

• Greenshot (lightweight, simple).

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🖼️ Method 6: Touchscreen Devices (Tablets & 2-in-1 PCs)

On touch devices, use this shortcut:

• Press Power + Volume Down buttons → Captures the screen like on a smartphone.

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📊 Quick Comparison of Methods

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✅ Conclusion

Clipping (taking screenshots) in Windows 11 is easier than ever. For quick clips, use Win + Shift + S. For full screen captures, press PrtScn or Win + PrtScn. Gamers can rely on Xbox Game Bar, while power users may prefer ShareX or Lightshot.

By learning these methods, you’ll always be ready to capture, save, and share what’s on your screen.

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❓ FAQs

1. Where are screenshots saved in Windows 11?
If you use Win + PrtScn, they are saved in Pictures > Screenshots. Snipping Tool lets you choose where to save.

2. Can I edit screenshots in Windows 11?
Yes. The Snipping Tool and Photos app let you crop, highlight, and annotate.

3. How do I take a scrolling screenshot in Windows 11?
Windows doesn’t have this feature built-in. Use third-party tools like ShareX or PicPick.

4. Is there a shortcut for capturing only one window?
Yes. Press Alt + PrtScn to capture the active window.

5. Does Windows 11 support screen recording?
Yes. Use Xbox Game Bar (Win + G) to record videos of your screen.