Quick notes
- This comprehensive guide will walk you through the different ways to print screen on your Surface Pro, ensuring you’re equipped to capture any moment on your screen.
- Windows 10 and later introduce a faster and more convenient way to capture screenshots using the keyboard shortcut Windows Key + Shift + S.
- If you own a Surface Pro with a Surface Pen, you have a unique way to capture screenshots.
Capturing screenshots on your Surface Pro is a handy skill for various tasks, from sharing visuals to documenting issues. While it might seem straightforward, there are several methods available, each with its own advantages. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the different ways to print screen on your Surface Pro, ensuring you’re equipped to capture any moment on your screen.
The Classic Print Screen Key: A Timeless Method
The most basic method for capturing your entire screen is using the Print Screen key (also known as **PrtScn** or **PrintScrn**). This key is typically located in the top-right corner of your keyboard.
1. Press the Print Screen key. This action doesn‘t visually capture the screenshot; instead, it copies the image to your clipboard.
2. Open an image editing program. You can use built-in tools like Paint or more advanced options like Photoshop.
3. Paste the image. Use **Ctrl + V** (or **Cmd + V** on a Mac) to paste the screenshot into your chosen program.
4. Save the image. Choose a file name and location to save your screenshot.
While this method is simple and reliable, it captures your entire screen, which might not always be desirable. Let’s explore ways to capture only specific areas.
The Snipping Tool: Your Go-to for Targeted Screenshots
The Snipping Tool is a built-in Windows application that provides more control over your screenshots. It allows you to capture rectangular areas, freeform shapes, and even full-screen images.
1. Open the Snipping Tool. You can find it by searching for it in the Start menu.
2. Select the desired capture mode. Choose between **Rectangular Snip**, **Free-form Snip**, **Window Snip**, or **Full-screen Snip**.
3. Take the screenshot. Click and drag your mouse to select the desired area or click on the window you want to capture.
4. Edit and save. The Snipping Tool allows you to make basic edits like drawing, highlighting, and adding text before saving your screenshot.
The Snipping Tool is a versatile tool that offers greater flexibility compared to the Print Screen key.
The Windows Key + Shift + S Shortcut: Quick and Easy Snipping
Windows 10 and later introduce a faster and more convenient way to capture screenshots using the keyboard shortcut Windows Key + Shift + S.
1. Press Windows Key + Shift + S. This will activate the screen snipping mode, temporarily dimming your screen.
2. Select the desired area. Use your mouse to select a rectangular area, freeform shape, or full screen.
3. The screenshot is saved. Your screenshot will be automatically saved to your clipboard. You can then paste it into any image editing program or share it directly.
This method offers a quicker alternative to the Snipping Tool, making it ideal for capturing quick screenshots.
The Surface Pen: Drawing Your Way to Screenshots
If you own a Surface Pro with a Surface Pen, you have a unique way to capture screenshots.
1. Press the Surface Pen button. This will activate the screen snipping mode, similar to the Windows Key + Shift + S shortcut.
2. Draw the desired area. Use the Surface Pen to draw a freeform shape around the area you want to capture.
3. The screenshot is saved. Your screenshot will be automatically saved to your clipboard.
This method offers a more creative and intuitive way to capture screenshots, especially when you need to capture complex or irregular shapes.
Exploring Third-Party Apps: Enhanced Functionality
While the built-in tools offer excellent functionality, third-party apps can provide additional features and customization options for your screenshots. Some popular alternatives include:
- Lightshot: This free tool allows you to capture any part of your screen and upload it to the web for easy sharing.
- Snagit: A powerful screen capture tool with advanced editing features, annotations, and video recording capabilities.
- ShareX: A free and open-source tool that offers a wide range of screenshot options, including scrolling capture, timed screenshots, and even video recording.
These apps can enhance your screenshot experience, offering features like delayed captures, scrolling screenshots, and more advanced editing tools.
Beyond the Basics: Advanced Screenshot Techniques
For more complex scenarios, consider these advanced techniques:
- Capturing a specific window: Use the **Alt + Print Screen** keyboard shortcut to capture only the active window.
- Capturing a scrolling window: Use tools like Lightshot or ShareX to capture the entire content of a long webpage or document.
- Capturing a video: Use the built-in Xbox Game Bar or third-party apps like Snagit to record your screen activity.
These techniques provide more control and flexibility, allowing you to capture specific content or record screen activity for various purposes.
Wrapping Up: Mastering the Art of Surface Pro Screenshots
From the classic Print Screen key to the versatile Snipping Tool and the innovative Surface Pen, you have a variety of methods to capture screenshots on your Surface Pro. Choosing the right technique depends on your specific needs and preferences. By understanding the different options available, you can efficiently capture any moment on your screen and share it with others.
Basics You Wanted To Know
Q: Can I capture a screenshot without saving it to my clipboard?
A: While the default methods save the screenshot to your clipboard, some third-party apps allow you to directly save the screenshot to a file without using the clipboard.
Q: What is the difference between the Snipping Tool and the Windows Key + Shift + S shortcut?
A: Both methods offer similar functionality, but the Windows Key + Shift + S shortcut is faster and more convenient for quick screenshots, while the Snipping Tool provides more editing options.
Q: Can I edit a screenshot after capturing it?
A: Yes, you can edit screenshots using built-in tools like Paint, third-party image editing programs, or even the Snipping Tool itself.
Q: How do I capture a video on my Surface Pro?
A: You can record your screen activity using the built-in Xbox Game Bar or third-party apps like Snagit.
Q: Can I use the Surface Pen to capture a screenshot on any Surface Pro model?
A: The Surface Pen button for capturing screenshots is only available on Surface Pro models with a Surface Pen that has a button.