The Snipping Tool is a highly useful, built-in utility on Windows that allows you to capture screenshots with precision and ease.
This guide will provide tips on using the Snipping Tool on various platforms including Windows 8, 11, and 7, Mac, Ubuntu, and Chromebook, and cover potential troubleshooting steps. We will also walk you through how to change the Snipping Tool shortcut for easier access.
Snipping Tool on Windows 8
The Snipping Tool in Windows 8 offers four types of snips – Free-form, Rectangular, Window, and Full-screen. Simply open the tool, select the type of snip you want, and capture your screenshot. Save the captured image in your desired location.
Downloading Snipping Tools
The Snipping Tool comes pre-installed on Windows 7, 8, and 10. However, if you’re looking for advanced features, third-party tools like Lightshot, Snagit, and Greenshot are available for download. Remember to only download from their official websites or trusted sources to avoid malware.
Snipping Tool Not Working
If your Snipping Tool isn’t working, try these solutions:
- Restart the Snipping Tool: Close the application and reopen it.
- Reboot Your PC: Sometimes, a simple system restart can fix minor software glitches.
- Update Windows: Ensure that your Windows OS is up-to-date.
- Repair Office: If you’re using Snip & Sketch, a feature available on later versions of Windows, try repairing your Office installation.
Snipping Tool on Windows 11
In Windows 11, the Snipping Tool and Snip & Sketch have been combined into a single app. Access it by searching for “Snipping Tool” in the Start menu. The tool operates similarly to previous versions, with the added bonus of a more streamlined, modern interface.
Snipping Tool on Windows 7
The Snipping Tool on Windows 7 works similarly to that of Windows 8. Access it from the Start menu by typing “Snipping Tool” into the search bar.
Snipping Tool on Mac
Mac doesn’t have the Snipping Tool, but it does have a similar feature called Screenshot. Use Command + Shift + 3 for a full-screen screenshot, or Command + Shift + 4 to capture a specific area.
Snipping Tool on Ubuntu
Ubuntu also doesn’t have the Snipping Tool, but you can use the Screenshot utility. Access it from the Applications menu, then select whether you want to capture the entire screen, a window, or a selected area.
Snipping Tool on Chromebook
To take a screenshot on a Chromebook, press the Ctrl + Switch Window keys for a full screenshot, or Ctrl + Shift + Switch Window keys to select a specific area.
Changing Snipping Tool Shortcut
To create a shortcut for the Snipping Tool:
- Find the Snipping Tool application through the Start menu.
- Right-click on the Snipping Tool and select “Open file location.”
- Right-click on the Snipping Tool in the file location, then select “Create shortcut.”
- Right-click on the new shortcut, select “Properties,” then the “Shortcut” tab.
- Click in the “Shortcut key” box, press your desired shortcut key, then click “Apply” and “OK.”
The Snipping Tool and its alternatives provide a simple way to capture screenshots. It’s versatile, easy to use, and comes built-in with most Windows operating systems.
By understanding its features and learning some handy troubleshooting steps, you can make the most out of this essential tool across various platforms.
Snipping Tool Alternatives
If you find that the Snipping Tool isn’t meeting your needs, there are several alternatives available:
- Greenshot: This open-source tool is free to use and offers features like screenshot capture, image editing, and more.
- Snagit: This is a professional-grade tool with advanced features like video recording, GIF creation, and powerful image editing capabilities.
- Lightshot: This is a free and easy-to-use tool that allows you to take screenshots quickly, with options for saving, sharing, and printing.
Snipping Tool on Android and iOS
While the Snipping Tool is not available on mobile devices, both Android and iOS offer built-in screenshot features. On most Android devices, press the volume down and power buttons simultaneously to take a screenshot.
On iPhones, the method varies depending on whether your device has a home button. For iPhones without a home button, press the side button and the volume up button together. For those with a home button, press the home button and the top or side button simultaneously.
Tips for Using the Snipping Tool
Here are a few tips to enhance your experience with the Snipping Tool:
- Delay Feature: If you’re trying to capture a screenshot of a dropdown menu or right-click context menu, use the delay feature in Snipping Tool on Windows 10 and 11 to wait a few seconds before capturing your snip.
- Shortcut: Make use of the shortcut feature to quickly launch the Snipping Tool whenever needed.
- Try Different Modes: Explore the various modes like rectangular, free-form, window snip, and full-screen snip to see which best suits your needs.
Conclusion
Whether you’re taking screenshots for work, school, or personal projects, the Snipping Tool and its alternatives can significantly simplify the process. With options to capture screenshots in a variety of ways, it’s an essential tool in any digital toolbox.
While it might take a little practice to master all its features, you’ll soon be capturing and sharing screenshots with ease.
