How to Screenshot on Chromebook?
Taking screenshots on a Chromebook is easy and you can use the same shortcut keys across just about any Chrome OS device including a desktop, laptop or tablet. With some simple keystrokes, you can capture what’s on your screen or just a portion of it. This guide will show you how to perform a screenshot on a Chromebook with some added tips and tricks.
What is a Screenshot?
A screenshot (screen capture) is a picture of the the computer display that is taken by the user. It allows users to take a picture of the display without having to resort to manual methods such as using a camera or capturing the display with a special program.
Why Capture a Screenshot?
Taking a screenshot on a Chromebook is a great way to capture and share a moment – an error message, an article, a map or anything else you don’t want to forget. Or, you can take a screenshot to show tech support a problem you’re having.
Keyboard Shortcuts to Screenshot on Chromebook
The standard keyboard shortcut to take a screenshot on a Chromebook is Ctrl + Show windows key, then press the Screenshot button.
For screen captures the Show Windows key is typically located near the top row of function keys in the right-hand corner and resembles an icon of two boxes stacked on top of each other.
Once you have hit that key combination, you will have three options appearing on your screen. These will be located at the bottom of your Chromebook’s display.
Options for Screenshot on Chromebook
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Capture region: This will allow you to select a specific part of the screen to take a picture of.
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Capture full-screen: This option will capture whatever you have open on your entire desktop.
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Capture window: This is useful if you’re only trying to take a screenshot of an existing window, such as a browser window.
Tips for Enhanced Screenshots
Taking a screenshot isn’t just limited to pictures; you can also record a video of your screen. To do this, you can use the same keystroke combination which will now trigger a video capture option.
You can also delay a screenshot so that you can capture a moment you’re unable to manually screenshot on the first try. To do this, start the screenshot with the usual keystroke combinations, but instead of clicking one of the three options you will find a timer and clock icon.
Adding Text and Annotations
Once you’ve taken one or more screenshots, you can edit, annotate and share them. Your Chromebook has a built-in annotation feature which can be used to highlight or circle specific details on the image. This can be done with the text tool, which can add arrows, text and even draw shapes.
Sharing Screenshots and Videos
Once you have captured your screenshots or videos you can share them directly from your Chromebook to any other device that’s connected to the same internet connection. You can also share screenshots via Google Drive, Yahoo and other similar sites, or you can save them directly onto a USB drive.
Taking a screenshot on a Chromebook is an easy process that can be done with the simple keystrokes of Ctrl + Show windows key and the screenshot button. And with the ability to add annotations and capture videos, your Chromebook is guaranteed to capture the most special moments and make them easy to share.
