Whether you’re trying to capture a funny meme, save important info, or show a tech issue to support, taking a screenshot on a Mac is super easy once you know the shortcuts. How to Take a Screenshot on a Mac Computer: Simple Steps for Every Mac User.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the different ways to screenshot on a Mac, from full-screen grabs to capturing a specific window or area. Let’s dive in!
1. Screenshot the Entire Screen
Shortcut:Command (⌘) + Shift + 3
- Instantly takes a screenshot of your entire screen.
- The image is automatically saved to your desktop (by default).
📂 File Name Example: Screen Shot 2025-07-01 at 10.00.00 AM.png
2. Screenshot a Selected Portion
Shortcut:Command (⌘) + Shift + 4
- Your cursor turns into a crosshair.
- Click and drag to select the area you want to capture.
- Release to take the screenshot.
✅ Perfect for grabbing just a part of the screen—like a specific chart, message, or image.
3. Screenshot a Specific Window
Shortcut: Command (⌘) + Shift + 4, then press Spacebar
- The cursor turns into a camera icon.
- Click the window you want to capture.
- Only that window gets saved as an image.
💡 Tip: You can screenshot menus or pop-ups this way too!
4. Screenshot with Preview Options
Shortcut:Command (⌘) + Shift + 5
- Opens the Screenshot Toolbar at the bottom of the screen.
- Options include
- Entire screen
- Selected window
- Custom portion
- Record screen (video!)
- You can also choose where to save the file and set a timer delay.
Bonus: Touch Bar Screenshot (for MacBook Pro)
Shortcut:Command (⌘) + Shift + 6
- Captures exactly what’s on the Touch Bar.
- Useful if you’re customizing it or encountering an issue.
Where Are Screenshots Saved?
By default, screenshots are saved to your desktop with a time-stamped filename.
Want to change the location? Use the Screenshot Toolbar (⌘ + Shift + 5) → Options → Save to…
How to Change Screenshot Settings
You can use System Settings or third-party apps like CleanShot X or Snagit to:
- Change save location
- Automatically copy to clipboard
- Add annotations or watermarks
Quick Recap of Screenshot Shortcuts
| Action | Shortcut |
|---|---|
| Full screen | ⌘ + Shift + 3 |
| Selected area | ⌘ + Shift + 4 |
| Window | ⌘ + Shift + 4, then Space |
| Toolbar & more options | ⌘ + Shift + 5 |
| Touch Bar (MacBook Pro) | ⌘ + Shift + 6 |
FAQ: How to Screenshot on Mac
Q: Can I copy a screenshot to the clipboard instead of saving it?
🅰️ Yes! Add Control to the shortcut. For example, Control + ⌘ + Shift + 3.
Q: How do I edit screenshots on Mac?
🅰️ Use the Preview app or tap the thumbnail in the corner immediately after taking the screenshot to open editing tools.
Q: Can I record my screen too?
🅰️ Yes! Press ⌘ + Shift + 5 and choose one of the video options.
Final Thoughts
Now you know exactly how to take a screenshot on a Mac computer—in every possible way! Whether you’re a beginner or a longtime user, mastering these shortcuts will save you time and help you work smarter.
🔗 Need more Mac tips? Check out Apple’s official support page.
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