How to print screen one monitor?

How to Print Screen One Monitor

In today’s multi-monitor world, capturing the contents of a single screen can sometimes be more complex than it initially appears. Whether you need to share an error message with tech support, save a memorable moment from a video game, or create documentation for a work project, knowing how to take a screenshot of just one monitor is essential. This guide will walk you through various methods to capture a single monitor on both Windows and Mac systems.

Capturing a Single Monitor on Windows

Windows provides several built-in tools for taking screenshots, including the Print Screen key, Snipping Tool, and Snip & Sketch. Here’s how to use each method:

1. Using the Print Screen Key

The Print Screen key (often abbreviated as PrtScn) is the most straightforward way to take a screenshot.

Steps:

  1. Select the monitor you want to capture: Click on any window or space on the monitor you wish to screenshot.
  2. Press Alt + PrtScn: This combination captures the active window on the selected monitor. If you want the entire screen of the selected monitor, you can use a third-party tool like Lightshot or Greenshot to capture just that monitor.

2. Snipping Tool

The Snipping Tool allows more control over what part of the screen you capture.

Steps:

  1. Open the Snipping Tool: You can find it by typing “Snipping Tool” in the Start menu search bar.
  2. Choose your snip type: Click “Mode” and select the type of snip you want (Free-form, Rectangular, Window, or Full-screen).
  3. Capture your screen: If you’re using the “Window Snip” option, just click on the window on the monitor you want to capture.

3. Snip & Sketch

Snip & Sketch is a more advanced tool than the Snipping Tool and is available in newer versions of Windows 10 and Windows 11.

Steps:

  1. Open Snip & Sketch: Press Windows Key + Shift + S to open the tool directly.
  2. Select your snip type: Choose from Rectangular Snip, Freeform Snip, Window Snip, or Full-screen Snip.
  3. Capture your screen: Use the tool to draw a box around the area of the monitor you want to capture.

Capturing a Single Monitor on Mac

Mac systems also offer several built-in tools for taking screenshots.

1. Using Keyboard Shortcuts

MacOS has powerful keyboard shortcuts for taking screenshots.

Steps:

  1. Select the screen you want to capture: Make sure the cursor is on the screen you wish to capture.
  2. Press Shift + Command + 4: This will change your cursor to a crosshair.
  3. Press the Spacebar: The cursor will change to a camera icon.
  4. Click the monitor: This will capture the entire screen of the monitor you clicked on.

2. Using the Screenshot App

The Screenshot app provides more flexibility and options for capturing your screen.

Steps:

  1. Open the Screenshot app: Press Shift + Command + 5 to open the Screenshot app.
  2. Select your capture type: Choose whether to capture the entire screen, a selected window, or a selected portion.
  3. Capture your screen: Click “Capture” to take the screenshot.

Third-Party Tools

If the built-in tools don’t meet your needs, there are several third-party applications that offer enhanced functionality for screen capturing.

  • Lightshot: Easy-to-use tool with editing options.
  • Greenshot: Open-source tool that offers more advanced features.
  • Snagit: A powerful, paid tool with extensive editing and sharing options.

Conclusion

Capturing a screenshot of a single monitor is a straightforward process once you know the right tools and shortcuts. Whether you’re using a Windows PC or a Mac, built-in tools like the Print Screen key, Snipping Tool, Snip & Sketch, and the Screenshot app offer effective solutions for capturing your screen. For more advanced needs, third-party applications like Lightshot, Greenshot, and Snagit provide additional features and flexibility. By mastering these tools, you can easily share and save important screen content from your multi-monitor setup.