How To Create A Screenshot (MacOS)
Overview
This article describes how to create a screenshot when using a macOS device. Screenshots are a useful tool in troubleshooting and can provide insight into what your machine is actually experiencing. Apple devices have a built-in command and app that can do this.
Audience
Public
Information
When using the screenshot tools make sure to capture the problem. For example, the error message you are getting or the odd behavior. If you have multiple errors, see if you can move them in a way that is viewable and does not cover the other message. If you are unsure, we recommend taking a screenshot of your entire screen. macOS allows you to capture the entire screen or a window.
How to take a screenshot on your Mac
- To take a screenshot, press and hold these three keys together:
Shift, Command, and 3. - If you see a thumbnail in the corner of your screen, click it to edit the screenshot. Or wait for the screenshot to save to your desktop.
How to capture a portion of the screen
- Press and hold these three keys together:
Shift, Command, and 4. - Drag the crosshair
to select the area of the screen to capture. To move the selection, press and hold the Space bar while dragging.
- To cancel taking the screenshot, press the Esc (Escape) key.
- To take the screenshot, release your mouse or trackpad button.
- Wait for the screenshot to save to your desktop.
Where to find screenshots and more information regarding
the screenshot tool.
By default, screenshots save to your desktop with the name ”Screen Shot [date] at [time].png.”
More information regarding taking screenshots can also be found on Apple’s website: