Screenshot

A screenshot, or screen capture, is a picture taken of your computer's desktop. This may include the desktop background, icons of files and folders, and open windows. It may also include whatever is being displayed by currently running programs. Screenshots are and easy way to save something you see on the screen, such as an open window, image, or text article. However, because screenshots are saved in an image format, the text saved in a screenshot will not be editable.

Both the Mac OS and Windows operating systems make it easy to take screenshots. Just use the following keyboard shortcuts to capture the current screen displayed on your computer:

Mac OS X:
Command-Shift-3: Saves a screenshot of the entire desktop to an image file on the desktop.
Command-Shift-4: Saves a screenshot of a selection selected with the cursor to an image file on the desktop.
Command-Control-Shift-3: Saves a screenshot of the entire desktop to the clipboard.
Command-Control-Shift-4: Saves a screenshot or a selection selected with the cursor to the clipboard.

Windows XP:
Print Screen: Saves a screenshot of the entire desktop to the clipboard.
Alt+Print Screen: Saves a screenshot of the active window to the clipboard.

Updated November 10, 2006 by Per C.

Definitions by TechTerms.com

The definition of Screenshot on this page is an original TechTerms.com definition. If you would like to reference this page or cite this definition, you can use the green citation links above.

The goal of TechTerms.com is to explain computer terminology in a way that is easy to understand. We strive for simplicity and accuracy with every definition we publish. If you have feedback about the Screenshot definition or would like to suggest a new technical term, please contact us.

Want to learn more tech terms? Subscribe to the daily or weekly newsletter and get featured terms and quizzes delivered to your inbox.

Sign up for the free TechTerms Newsletter

How often would you like to receive an email?

You can unsubscribe or change your frequency setting at any time using the links available in each email.

Questions? Please contact us.