What To Know
- Press Ctrl ++ V (Windows) or Command + V (Mac) to paste the screenshot into the image editor.
- The screenshot will automatically be saved as a PNG file in the “Pictures” folder under the “Screenshots” subfolder.
- Click on the “Windows Ink Workspace” icon in the taskbar (if available) or search for “Windows Ink Workspace” in the Windows search bar.
Taking screenshots on your HP Envy laptop is a handy skill for capturing everything from important information to humorous online moments. Whether you’re a student, a professional, or just someone who enjoys sharing online content, knowing how to take a screenshot can be incredibly useful. This guide will walk you through the different methods for taking screenshots on your HP Envy laptop, ensuring you’re equipped to capture any screen content effortlessly.
The Classic Keyboard Shortcut: Print Screen (PrtScn)
The most basic and widely-used method for taking screenshots is using the Print Screen (PrtScn) key found on your keyboard. Here’s how it works:
1. Locate the PrtScn Key: This key is typically located in the top right corner of your keyboard, often near the F12 key.
2. Press the PrtScn Key: Press and hold the PrtScn key for a moment. You won’t see any visual confirmation, but the screenshot has been captured.
3. Open an Image Editor: Open an image editing program like Paint (Windows) or Preview (Mac).
4. Paste the Screenshot: Press Ctrl ++ V (Windows) or Command + V (Mac) to paste the screenshot into the image editor.
5. Save the Screenshot: Save the screenshot in your desired format and location.
Capturing a Specific Window: The Alt + PrtScn Combo
If you need to capture only a specific window on your screen, the Alt + PrtScn combination is your go-to method.
1. Select the Desired Window: Click on the window you want to capture.
2. Press Alt + PrtScn: Simultaneously press and hold the Alt and PrtScn keys.
3. Open an Image Editor: Open an image editor like Paint (Windows) or Preview (Mac).
4. Paste the Screenshot: Press Ctrl ++ V (Windows) or Command + V (Mac) to paste the screenshot into the image editor.
5. Save the Screenshot: Save the screenshot in your desired format and location.
The Snipping Tool: A Versatile Option for Windows Users
Windows users have a built-in tool called the Snipping Tool that provides more control over their screenshots.
1. Open the Snipping Tool: Search for “Snipping Tool” in the Windows search bar and open the application.
2. Select Snipping Mode: Choose the type of snip you want to take:
- Free-form Snip: Draw a free-form shape around the area you want to capture.
- Rectangular Snip: Select a rectangular area by dragging the cursor.
- Window Snip: Capture the entire active window.
- Full-screen Snip: Capture your entire screen.
3. Take the Snip: Click on the “New” button to start your snip. Use your mouse to select the desired area.
4. Edit and Save: You can edit the snip using the built-in tools and then save it to your desired location.
The “Print Screen” Button on Your HP Envy Laptop
Some HP Envy laptops come equipped with a dedicated “Print Screen” button that simplifies the screenshot process.
1. Locate the “Print Screen” Button: Check the function keys (F1-F12) on your keyboard. The “Print Screen” button might be labeled as “PrtScn” or “Print Scrn“.
2. Press the “Print Screen” Button: Press the “Print Screen” button to capture the entire screen.
3. Open an Image Editor: Open an image editing program like Paint (Windows) or Preview (Mac).
4. Paste the Screenshot: Press Ctrl ++ V (Windows) or Command + V (Mac) to paste the screenshot into the image editor.
5. Save the Screenshot: Save the screenshot in your desired format and location.
Taking Screenshots with the Windows Key + Print Screen Combo
For a quick and easy way to capture your entire screen, use the Windows key + Print Screen combination.
1. Press Windows Key + Print Screen: Simultaneously press and hold the Windows key and the Print Screen key.
2. Locate the Screenshot: The screenshot will automatically be saved as a PNG file in the “Pictures” folder under the “Screenshots” subfolder.
Using the “Windows Ink Workspace” for More Advanced Screenshots
If you’re looking for more advanced screenshot options and annotations, the “Windows Ink Workspace” is a powerful tool.
1. Open the “Windows Ink Workspace“: Click on the “Windows Ink Workspace” icon in the taskbar (if available) or search for “Windows Ink Workspace” in the Windows search bar.
2. Select “Screen Sketch“: Choose the “Screen Sketch” option from the available tools.
3. Capture the Screenshot: Select the type of snip you want to take (free-form, rectangular, or full-screen).
4. Edit and Save: Use the built-in tools to draw, annotate, or highlight your screenshot. You can save the screenshot in your desired format and location.
Beyond the Basics: Exploring Third-Party Screenshot Tools
While the built-in tools on your HP Envy laptop are sufficient for basic screenshots, third-party screenshot tools offer additional features and customization. Popular options include:
- Lightshot: A free and easy-to-use tool that lets you capture specific areas of your screen, annotate screenshots, and share them easily.
- Snagit: A more advanced tool with features like video recording, scrolling screenshots, and advanced editing options.
- ShareX: A powerful and free open-source tool with a wide range of features, including screenshot capture, video recording, and file sharing.
Mastering the Snapshot: A Final Tip
To quickly access your saved screenshots, consider creating a shortcut to your “Screenshots” folder on your desktop or in your taskbar. This will make it easier to find and share your captured images.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How do I take a screenshot of a specific area on my screen?
A: Use the Snipping Tool. Select the “Free-form Snip” or “Rectangular Snip” option and use your mouse to select the desired area.
Q: Can I edit my screenshots after taking them?
A: Yes, you can use the built-in tools in the Snipping Tool or a third-party image editor to edit your screenshots.
Q: Where are my screenshots saved?
A: The location of your saved screenshots depends on the method you used. Using the Windows key + Print Screen combination saves them in the “Pictures” folder under the “Screenshots” subfolder. Other methods might save them to different locations, so check your image editor or screenshot tool settings.
Q: Are there any keyboard shortcuts for taking screenshots on my HP Envy laptop?
A: Yes, the most common keyboard shortcuts are:
- PrtScn: Captures the entire screen.
- Alt + PrtScn: Captures the active window.
- Windows Key + Print Screen: Captures the entire screen and saves it automatically.
Q: What are the benefits of using third-party screenshot tools?
A: Third-party screenshot tools offer additional features like:
- Advanced editing options: More control over cropping, resizing, and adding effects to your screenshots.
- Annotation tools: Draw, highlight, and add text to your screenshots.
- Video recording: Capture your screen activity as a video.
- Sharing options: Easily share your screenshots to social media, email, or cloud storage.
