How to get started with the Snipping Tool app in Windows 11
Do you need to capture anything on your screen? Use the Snipping Tool in Windows 11. Here’s how.
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OnWindows 11, you can use the Snipping Tool to take screenshots without resorting to a third-party tool. In this guide, I will teach you how to get started and get the most out of the app.
The new Snipping Tool app replaces the old version of the Snipping Tool and the Snip & Sketch (still available onWindows 10) with a new experience that combines the best of both apps.
The app lets you take screenshots in different ways. You can select a rectangle, use free mode, or quickly capture a window or the entire screen. The second part of the experience is the new editor that lets you crop, annotate, extra text, redact sensitive information, and save or share screenshots. You can even use the app to screen record videos with and without audio.
In thishow-to guide, I will explain how to take screenshots and screen record videos using the Snipping Tool app on Windows 11.
How to use Snipping Tool to take screenshots
The Snipping Tool is a straightforward app that allows you to take screenshots on Windows 11 through the app or shortcut. The app also includes settings you can configure, including the ability to use the"Print screen"key instead of the"Windows key + Shift + S"shortcut.
Screen capture via app
To take screenshots through the Snipping Tool app, use these steps:
Once you complete the steps, the screenshot will open in the Snipping Tool editor, where you can save the capture or annotate it before sharing it.
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Screen capture via shortcut
Alternatively, you can use a keyboard shortcut to quickly bring up the tools to take a screenshot on Windows 11. Here’s how:
After you complete the steps, the capture will open with the Snipping Tool editor.
Basic screenshot editing
To edit and save the screenshot, use these steps:
Once you complete the steps, the screenshot will save on the computer.
Adding shapes to screenshot
To add shapes to the screenshot, use these steps:
Once you complete the steps, the shape will be added to the screenshot.
Redact or extract text on screenshot
To redact text to hide sensitive information on a screenshot, use these steps:
Once you complete the steps, the sensitive information will be redacted on the screenshot.
How to use Snipping Tool to screen recording
To record the screen with the Snipping Tool app, use these steps:
Once you complete the steps, Snipping Tool will create a video file with the screen recording.
How to change settings on Snipping Tool
The Snipping Tool lets you configure various settings.
To change the app settings, use these steps:
After you complete the steps, the settings will apply automatically.
More resources
For more helpful articles, coverage, and answers to common questions about Windows 10 and Windows 11, visit the following resources:
Mauro Huculak has been a Windows How-To Expert contributor for WindowsCentral.com for nearly a decade and has over 15 years of experience writing comprehensive guides. He also has an IT background and has achieved different professional certifications from Microsoft, Cisco, VMware, and CompTIA. He has been recognized as a Microsoft MVP for many years.
