Introduction
How to screenshot on Chromebook is a basic question of users and an easy task once you know the right steps. This guide will show you the simplest ways to capture your screen, edit the picture, save it, and share it with others. We’ll also talk about different options you can use, like taking full-screen screenshots or capturing just part of the screen. Let’s begin!
Basic Ways How to screenshot on Chromebook
Using the Keyboard Shortcut
If you want to take a quick screenshot, the easiest way is by using the keyboard shortcut. Here’s how to do it:
|
Action |
Key Combination |
|
Capture full screen |
Press the Show Windows key + Ctrl |
|
Capture a portion of the screen |
Press the Show Windows key + Shift + Ctrl |
After pressing these keys, the screen will flash, and the picture will be saved in the Downloads folder.
How to screenshot on Chromebook Without the Keyboard Shortcut
If you can’t use the keyboard for some reason, don’t worry! You can still capture your screen using the Settings. Here’s how:
- Open Settings: Click on the time at the bottom-right corner of your Chromebook. This will open Quick Settings.
- Find Screen Capture: In the Quick Settings, click on the Screen Capture tool.
- Choose an Option: You’ll see three different options:
- Full-screen screenshot: Captures the entire screen.
- Partial screenshot: Lets you choose a specific part of the screen to capture.
- Window screenshot: Captures just one window.
Once you select your option, the screenshot is automatically saved in the Files app.
Where to Find Your Screenshots
After you take your screenshot, it goes straight to the Downloads folder. You can find your captured images by following these steps:
- Open the Files app: Click on the Launcher (the circle icon at the bottom of the screen) and open Files.
- Go to Downloads: Inside the Files app, look for the Downloads folder.
- Find your screenshot: Your most recent screenshot will be right there!
You can rename the file, move it to Google Drive, or upload it directly to a website.
Editing Your Screenshot
Chromebooks make it easy to edit your screenshot too! If you want to crop the image, add some text, or make adjustments, you can use the built-in tools:
- Open your screenshot: Double-click on the picture file to open it.
- Edit the screenshot: Use the simple editing tools to crop, rotate, or adjust brightness.
- Save the changes: When you’re done, click Save.
You can also upload the screenshot to Google Drive or send it to your friends and teachers by email or chat.
Recording Your Screen
Sometimes, taking a screenshot isn’t enough. Maybe you need to record what’s happening on your screen. Chromebook has a built-in screen recording tool for that. Here’s how you can record your screen:
- Go to Quick Settings: Click on the time at the bottom-right corner.
- Click on Screen Capture: From here, choose the screen recording option instead of taking a picture.
- Start recording: You can choose to record the full screen or just a part of it. Once you finish, the recording will be saved in your Downloads folder.
You can also use third-party apps like Loom or Screencastify to record your screen and even add audio commentary.
Chrome OS 89’s New Features
With Chrome OS 89, Google introduced some new ways to capture your screen. This version added features to Quick Settings, making it easier to access the Screen Capture tool. If your Chromebook is updated to Chrome OS 89 or later, you’ll notice some extra options when you take screenshots or recordings.
If you’re not seeing these features, try updating your Chromebook by following these steps:
- Open Settings.
- Scroll down and click on About Chrome OS.
- Check for updates.
Once updated, you’ll have all the latest features to capture your screen easily.
Third-Party Tools for Screenshots and Recordings
While Chromebook’s built-in tools are great, some people prefer to use third-party extensions. These can be useful if you need more advanced options.
Popular Third-Party Tools:
- Loom: This extension allows you to record your screen with video and audio.
- Screencastify: Another great tool for recording your screen. You can even edit the videos afterward.
Both of these tools can be added from the Chrome Web Store. They are easy to use and helpful for making tutorials or explaining things to others.
Troubleshooting Common Problems
Sometimes, you might face problems when trying to take a screenshot on your Chromebook. Here’s how to fix some of the most common issues:
1. Screenshot Not Being Saved
- What could be wrong? Your Chromebook’s storage might be full.
- How to fix it:
- Open the Files app and go to the Downloads folder.
- Remove any unnecessary files to make room.
- After freeing up space, try taking the screenshot again.
2. Screenshot Tool Won’t Open
- What could be wrong? Your Chromebook might need a restart, or the system could be outdated.
- How to fix it:
- Restart your Chromebook by shutting it down and turning it back on.
- If restarting doesn’t help, check for updates:
- Go to Settings > About Chrome OS > Check for updates.
- Install any updates and try taking a screenshot again.
3. Screen Flashes but No Screenshot
- What could be wrong? You might not be using the correct key combination, or the “Show Windows” key isn’t working.
- How to fix it:
- Double-check the keys you’re pressing (it should be Ctrl + Show Windows).
- Make sure the “Show Windows” key (the one with the rectangle and lines) is working. Test it by using other shortcuts.
- If the key isn’t responding, you can use the screen capture tool from the quick settings menu (press Shift + Ctrl + Show Windows).
4. Can’t Find the Screenshot
- What could be wrong? The screenshot might not be saved where you expect.
- How to fix it:
- Open the Files app and look inside the Downloads folder.
- If you still can’t locate it, use the search feature in the Files app and type “screenshot” to help find it quickly.
Still Having Trouble?
- Give your Chromebook another restart to refresh everything.
- Check if your Chrome OS is fully up-to-date, as updates often fix most issues.
Sharing Your Screenshots
Once you’ve taken and edited your screenshot, it’s easy to share it with others. Here’s how you can do that:
- Attach to an email: Open your email and click on the attach button. Navigate to your Downloads folder and select the screenshot.
- Upload to Google Drive: Open Google Drive and drag the screenshot into the folder.
- Send through a message: If you’re chatting with someone on Google Chat or another platform, just upload the image directly into the conversation.
Creating Your Own Chromebook Guide
If you want to teach someone how to take a screenshot on a Chromebook, creating a simple guide is a great idea. You can use visual aids like step-by-step images or even record a video using Loom or Screencastify. Adding screenshots of the process makes it easier for others to understand.
Conclusion
Taking a screenshot on a Chromebook, including the Samsung Chromebook, is easy once you know how. Whether you’re using a keyboard shortcut or the Screen Capture tool, you’ll have your screenshots saved in no time. Don’t forget, you can also record your screen or share your captures with others. By following the steps in this guide, you’ll be a screenshot pro in no time!
Now, go ahead and start capturing all the important moments on your Samsung Chromebook!
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I take a screenshot on a Chromebook?
Press the Show Windows key and Ctrl to capture the full screen.
Can I take a partial screenshot on a Chromebook?
Yes, press Show Windows key + Shift + Ctrl to capture a specific area.
Where are my screenshots saved?
Screenshots are saved in the Downloads folder on your Chromebook.
Can I take a screenshot without using keyboard shortcuts?
Yes, you can use the Screen Capture tool in Quick Settings.
How do I find the Screen Capture tool?
Click on the time at the bottom-right corner of the screen to open Quick Settings, then click on Screen Capture.
Can I edit my screenshots on a Chromebook?
Yes, you can crop, rotate, and adjust brightness using the built-in editing tools.
How do I record my screen on a Chromebook?
Use the Screen Capture tool and select the screen recording option instead of a screenshot.
Are there third-party tools for taking screenshots?
Yes, extensions like Loom and Screencastify are popular options for screenshots and screen recordings.
Can I take a screenshot of a specific window?
Yes, select the Window screenshot option in the Screen Capture tool.
How do I share my screenshot?
You can attach it to an email, upload it to Google Drive, or send it in a message.
Why can’t I find my screenshot?
Check your Downloads folder or use the Files app to search for the image.
How do I update my Chromebook to get the latest screenshot features?
Go to Settings ➡️ About Chrome OS ➡️ Check for updates.
What should I do if my screenshot isn’t saving?
Ensure there’s enough space in your Downloads folder and restart your Chromebook if necessary.
Can I use a Chromebook extension to capture the screen?
Yes, extensions like Screencastify allow you to capture the screen and even edit videos.
How do I take a full-screen screenshot?
Press Show Windows key and Ctrl together.
Can I screenshot on an older version of Chrome OS?
Yes, but newer features like Quick Settings for screenshots are available in Chrome OS 89 and later.
How can I troubleshoot screenshot issues on my Chromebook?
Restart your Chromebook or update Chrome OS if you’re facing issues.
How do I change the name of my screenshot file?
Open the Files app, find the screenshot, right-click, and select Rename.
Can I send my screenshot through chat?
Yes, just upload the image in any chat or messaging platform like Google Chat.
How do I capture a screenshot in tablet mode on my Chromebook?
Press the Power button and Volume down button simultaneously to capture the screen.