How to create perfect screenshots on a Mac

Introduction

Taking screenshots on a Mac is a common task that many of us do on a regular basis. This handy feature allows you to capture and share the contents of your screen, whether for presentations, tutorials, or sharing information. On a Mac, you have several options to take screenshots, depending on your needs. The best part is that you don't need any additional apps or third-party tools for this. In this article, we will share with you four efficient ways to take screenshots on your Mac and provide the respective keyboard shortcuts you need. This way, you'll be well-equipped to take screenshots effortlessly and optimize your workflow.

There are several methods to Screenshots on a Mac depending on your requirements. All of them use Apple's built-in screenshot tool, so no additional third-party apps or applications are needed.

To create different types of screenshots, use the keyboard shortcuts where you hold down the Command key and then press the Shift key along with a number:

1. Shift + Command + 3: Capture the entire screen.
2. Shift + Command + 4: Take a screenshot of a selected area on the screen.
3. Shift + Command + 5: Open the Screenshot menu.
4. Shift + Command + 6: Take a screenshot of the Touch Bar if your Mac has one.

Below you can find detailed information about the different types of screenshots and their respective keyboard shortcuts.

Create full screen screenshot on Mac

If you need a screenshot of the whole screen, use the following key combination:

Key combination: Shift + Command + 3

This method works regardless of whether you are in full screen mode or have multiple windows open on your screen. Note that if you are using multiple monitors, this key combination will take and save a screenshot of each monitor at the same time.

Create screenshot of a selected area:

If you want to capture only a part of the screen, use this key combination:

Key combination: Command + Shift + 4

After you press this key combination, your cursor becomes a crosshair. Click the mouse button or trackpad, drag the crosshairs over the area you want to capture, and release to take the screenshot.

You can also use additional options, such as clicking a window to include it or adjusting the size and shape of the selection area.

Create screenshot of the Touch Bar

If your Mac has a Touch Bar, you can capture it with the following key combination:

Key combination: Command + Shift + 6

This method captures the contents of the Touch Bar at the time of capture.

Open screenshot app on Mac

Certain Mac operating systems such as macOS Mojave, Catalina, Big Sur, Monterey, Ventura, and Sonoma offer a built-in screenshot app with advanced screen capture features and options. To open the screenshot app, use this keyboard shortcut:

Key combination: Command + Shift + 5

In the Screenshot app you can create different types of screenshots, including full-screen screenshots, screenshot of selected windows, and screenshot of selected screen areas. You can also use options to customize the screenshot settings, such as displaying thumbnail previews or selecting the location to save the screenshots.

Conclusion

Taking screenshots on a Mac can be a valuable tool that makes your daily tasks and projects easier. With the various methods and keyboard shortcuts at your disposal, you'll be well-equipped to take screenshots according to your individual needs. Whether you want to capture the entire screen, a selected area, or even the Touch Bar, Your Mac offers the right tools. Use this knowledge to increase your efficiency and improve the way you share and store information. With a little practice, you'll become a screenshot expert on your Mac and be able to successfully use your skills in a variety of situations.