How To Capture Screenshots
When using software programs or operating systems, it's not uncommon to encounter issues that need to be documented for further reference or research purposes. In such cases, having a screenshot of the error can be incredibly valuable. But, many users are not sure how to take screenshot of an problem. In this article, we'll walk you through the simple steps to capture screenshots and document evidence of issues.
Taking a Screenshot
Taking a capture image is a simple process that varies due to the operating system you are using. Here's a diagrammatic guide for Windows users:
For Windows:
Press the Print Screen key shortcut (usually located between the Ctrl and Scroll Lock key keys) on your keyboard.
Open the Paint application (pre-installed on Windows or obtain elsewhere) or any other graphic design tool.
Press Ctrl + V to insert the image into the tool.
Save the image with a description that describes the error.
You can also use the Snip & Sketch tool in Windows 10 and later versions to capture specific regions of the screen or take a image of an open window.
For Mac:
Press Command + Shift + 3 (for a full-screen screenshot) or mega888 Control + Shift + 4 (for select a particular area of the screen) on your keyboard.
Release the keys to capture the image.
You'll see the screenshot saved on your desktop as a PNG file.
Name the screenshot with a descriptive description, and save it in a designated.
Recording Evidence
Recording a video recording of the problem provides more information than a image capture and can help developers diagnose the issue more accurately. Here's how to record a video on Windows:
For Windows:
Install and open screen recording software (free tool).
Select the area of the screen you want to record by clicking on the plus button in the "Sources" panel.
Choose the quality settings (quality, resolution, and framerate).
Click the red button "Start Recording" button to begin the capture.
Once you've completed the recording, click the red "Stop Recording" button.
Save the video file with a meaningful description.
For Mac:
Install and open video recording software (free video recording software).
Go to File > New Screen Recording (or use Command + Shift + 5).
Choose the area of the screen you want to capture or choose to capture the entire screen.
Click the "Record" button to begin the recording.
Once you've completed the capture, click the red button button.
Save the video file with a descriptive description.
Tips and Tricks
Always make sure you have enough storage space to store your images and video recordings.
Keep your images and captures in order by creating directories and naming them with meaningful dates and explanations.
Use clear and descriptive file names, including the error type.
If the issue repeats, consider recommending capturing a longer recorded sequence to record all instances.
