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How to take a screenshot of part of the screen

Grab just the bit you need instead of the whole display, then crop it or pull the text out. Windows 11, Mac and Android each have a shortcut for it.

  1. How to copy text from a screenshot on Windows 11

    Press Windows + Shift + S and drag around the text. Click the preview to open Snipping Tool, then click Text actions and Copy all text.

    Use it when: An error message or a serial number does not have to be retyped.

    Windows · Easy · 1 min · Full steps

  2. How to use the screenshot toolbar on a Mac

    Press Command + Shift + 5. The toolbar lets you capture a selection, a window or the whole screen, or start a screen recording. Options lets you save to the clipboard instead of the desktop.

    Use it when: You get a choice of what to capture, and you can send it to the clipboard instead of the desktop.

    Mac · Easy · 1 min · Full steps

  3. How to crop a screenshot on Android

    Press Power and Volume down, tap the preview in the corner straight away, and choose Crop. If you miss it, open the screenshot in Google Photos and tap Edit > Crop.

    Use it when: You share the relevant rectangle instead of your whole home screen.

    Android · Easy · 1 min · Full steps

Questions people ask

Why don't I see Text actions?

Update Snipping Tool from the Microsoft Store. It's a newer feature.

How do I record my screen on a Mac?

Press Command + Shift + 5, choose one of the recording buttons, then click Record. Stop it from the button in the menu bar.

Can I take a scrolling screenshot?

On many phones, yes. Tap Capture more on the preview.

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