A Step-by-Step Guide: How to Screenshot on Chromebook

‍Photo by kropekk_pl on Pixabay

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Are you a Chromebook user and wondering how to take a screenshot? You are not alone. Screenshotting on a Chromebook can be confusing, especially if you are new to the platform. Fortunately, there are a few different methods for taking screenshots, and once you know them, it’s easy. In this article, I will guide you through the step-by-step process of how to screenshot on Chromebook.

Using the Keyboard Shortcuts for Screenshotting on Chromebook

One of the easiest ways to take a screenshot on a Chromebook is by using keyboard shortcuts. This method works for most Chromebooks, regardless of the model or brand. Here’s how to do it:

1. To capture the entire screen, press the Ctrl + Show windows (or Ctrl + F5) keys simultaneously. The Show windows key is usually located in the top row of keys and looks like a rectangle with two lines beside it.
2. To capture a specific area of the screen, press the Ctrl + Shift + Show windows (or Ctrl + Shift + F5) keys simultaneously. The cursor will turn into a crosshair. Click and drag the cursor to select the area you want to capture.
3. Once you have captured the screenshot, it will be saved in the Downloads folder.

Using the Built-in Screenshot Tool on Chromebook

If you prefer a more visual approach to screenshotting, Chromebook has a built-in screenshot tool that you can use. Here’s how to access it:

1. Click on the status area (the area in the bottom right corner of the screen with the time, battery, and Wi-Fi icons).
2. Click on the Settings icon (the gear icon).
3. Scroll down to the Device section and click on the Keyboard settings.
4. Under the Keyboard shortcuts section, click on the Customize button next to Screenshots.
5. Select the type of screenshot you want to take (Full screen, Partial screen, or Window).
6. Once you have made your selection, press the keys that are listed next to the screenshot type to take the screenshot.

Saving and Editing Your Screenshots on Chromebook

Once you have taken a screenshot on your Chromebook, you may want to edit it or save it in a different format. Here’s how to do it:

1. Open the Files app (the icon that looks like a folder).
2. Select the Downloads folder.
3. Find the screenshot you want to edit or save.
4. Right-click on the screenshot and select Open with.
5. Choose the app you want to use to edit the screenshot (such as the built-in image editor or an external app).
6. Once you have made your edits, save the screenshot in the format you prefer (such as PNG or JPEG).

Troubleshooting Common Issues with Screenshotting on Chromebook

If you are having trouble taking screenshots on your Chromebook, here are some common issues and how to troubleshoot them:

1. The keyboard shortcuts are not working: Make sure you are using the correct keys and that they are not stuck. You can also try restarting your Chromebook.
2. The screenshot is not saving: Check the Downloads folder to make sure the screenshot was saved. If it’s not there, try taking the screenshot again.
3. The screenshot is blurry or low-quality: Make sure your screen resolution is set to the recommended settings. You can also try using an external app to edit the screenshot and improve its quality.

Additional Tips and Tricks for Screenshotting on Chromebook

Here are a few additional tips and tricks that can make screenshotting on your Chromebook even easier:

1. Use the Ctrl + Shift + Show windows keys to capture a screenshot of a specific window.
2. Use the built-in image editor to crop, rotate, or add text to your screenshots.
3. Use an external app, such as Lightshot or Nimbus Screenshot, to take more advanced screenshots, such as scrolling screenshots or video screenshots.

Conclusion

Taking a screenshot on a Chromebook is not as daunting as it may seem. Whether you prefer keyboard shortcuts or the built-in screenshot tool, there are several methods to choose from. Remember to save and edit your screenshots in the format you prefer, and troubleshoot any issues you may encounter. With these tips and tricks, you can become a screenshotting pro on your Chromebook in no time.