How to Use Snipping Tool in Windows 11

The Snipping Tool in Windows 11 lets you quickly take screenshots of your screen – whether it’s a full screen, a window, or a custom selection. Here’s how to use it effectively.

How to Open the Snipping Tool

Option 1: Keyboard Shortcut

• Press Windows + Shift + S
  This instantly opens the Snipping Tool in capture mode.

Option 2: From Start Menu

• Click Start, type Snipping Tool, and press Enter.

Tip: You can pin it to the taskbar for quick access.

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Snipping Tool Modes in Windows 11

Once opened, you’ll see four snip types:

1. Rectangular Snip – Draw a box around the area you want to capture.
2. Freeform Snip – Draw any shape around the area.
3. Window Snip – Click on a specific app window.
4. Fullscreen Snip – Captures the entire screen instantly.

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How to Take a Screenshot

1. Press Windows + Shift + S
2. Choose the desired snip mode from the toolbar.
3. Select the area or window to capture.
4. The screenshot is copied to your clipboard.

You’ll also see a notification in the bottom-right corner—click it to open the capture in Snipping Tool for editing.

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How to Edit and Save a Snip

Once the screenshot opens in Snipping Tool:

• Draw or highlight using the pen, highlighter, or eraser.
• Crop the image as needed.
• Click Save (floppy disk icon) to store the screenshot on your PC.

You can also Copy or Share the snip directly from the app.

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How to Use Snipping Tool with Delay

Want to capture something after a few seconds?

1. Open Snipping Tool from Start.
2. Click the arrow next to the New button.
3. Choose a delay: 3, 5, or 10 seconds.
4. After the delay, your screen will dim and you can take a screenshot.

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Where Are Snipping Tool Screenshots Saved?

If you don’t manually save, your snips are only copied to the clipboard.

To save automatically:

• After editing, click File > Save As, or use Ctrl + S.
• Choose your folder and format (PNG, JPG, GIF).

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Quick Troubleshooting

• Snipping Tool not opening?
  • Try restarting your PC or updating Windows.
• Clipboard not saving?
  • Check Clipboard settings: Settings > System > Clipboard.

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Conclusion

The Windows 11 Snipping Tool is a powerful and easy-to-use tool for taking screenshots. Whether you’re capturing full screens or specific windows, the tool is flexible, fast, and built right into the OS.