How To Scan A Document Using The Scan App In Windows 11/10 (Quick Guide)

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4 min. read

Published on September 20, 2025

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Scanning documents directly from your Windows 11 or 10 computer is easier than you think, thanks to the built-in Scan app. This handy tool allows you to quickly digitize paper documents, receipts, or photos without needing a separate scanner. This guide will walk you through the process, step-by-step, making it simple for anyone to use. No complicated software or extra hardware is required; everything you need is already on your computer.

How Do I Use the Windows Scan App to Scan Documents?

Here’s how to scan documents using the built-in Windows Scan app:

1. Connect Your Scanner

If you’re using a physical scanner, ensure it’s properly connected to your computer and turned on. Windows will usually automatically detect it. If not, you may need to install the necessary drivers.

2. Open the Scan App

Search for "Scan" in the Windows search bar and open the Scan app.

3. Choose Your Scanner (if applicable)

If you have multiple scanners connected, select the one you want to use from the dropdown menu.

4. Select Settings

Before scanning, adjust the settings to match your needs. These typically include:

Scanner: Choose your scanner from the list if you have multiple options.
Profile: Select a preset profile (e.g., Document, Photo). This automatically adjusts settings like resolution and color mode.
Resolution: Higher resolution means better quality but larger file sizes. Choose a resolution appropriate for your needs.
Color mode: Select color, grayscale, or black and white.
File type: Choose the file format for your scanned document (PDF or JPEG are common).
Output file: Select where you want to save the scanned document.

5. Scan Your Document

Place your document on the scanner’s glass and click "Scan". The app will process the scan and display a preview. You can scan multiple pages if needed, using the "Scan more pages" option.

6. Review and Save

Review the scanned document for quality and make any necessary adjustments. Once you’re satisfied, click "Save".

Tips for Better Scans

Clean the Scanner Glass: Dust and smudges on the scanner glass can affect the quality of your scan. Clean it with a soft, lint-free cloth before each scan.
Proper Lighting: Ensure your document is well-lit to avoid shadows and blurry scans.
Experiment with Settings: Different settings work best for different documents. Experiment with resolution and color mode to find the optimal settings for your needs.
Use the Correct Profile: Choosing the correct profile (e.g., Document, Photo) can significantly improve the quality of your scans.

Scanning in Windows 11 vs. Windows 10

While the core functionality remains similar, there might be minor interface differences between Windows 11 and Windows 10 versions of the Scan app. The overall process, however, remains consistent.

Wrapping Up

The Windows Scan app offers a straightforward and efficient way to digitize your documents. By following these steps and utilizing the tips provided, you can easily create high-quality digital copies of your important papers.

FAQs

What if my scanner isn’t recognized by Windows?

You might need to install the appropriate drivers for your scanner. These are usually available on the manufacturer’s website. Check your device manager to see if the scanner is correctly installed.

Can I scan multiple pages into a single PDF?

Yes, most scanners and the Scan app allow you to scan multiple pages and combine them into a single PDF file. Look for an option like "Scan more pages" or a similar setting within the app.

What is the best resolution for scanning documents?

The ideal resolution depends on your needs. 300 DPI is generally considered good for most documents, offering a balance between quality and file size. Higher resolutions result in larger files.

How do I adjust the brightness and contrast of my scan?

Some Scan apps offer options to adjust brightness and contrast after the scan is complete. If your app doesn’t, you might need to use a separate image editing program.