How to Take a Screenshot on Chromebook
Learn how to take a screenshot on Chromebook using keyboard shortcuts, the Screen Capture tool, partial screenshots, window captures, troubleshooting, and FAQs.
Quick Answer
To take a screenshot on a Chromebook, press Ctrl + Show Windows for the full screen, or Shift + Ctrl + Show Windows to open the Screen Capture toolbar and choose full screen, partial area, or window capture.
What You Need
- Chromebook
- Keyboard with Show Windows key
- Enough storage space
- Screen content ready to capture
Safety Precautions
- Do not capture private passwords, bank details, or personal messages unless necessary.
- Ask permission before sharing screenshots that include other people.
- Crop sensitive information before posting online.
- Check school or work device rules before sharing captures.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Step 1
Open the screen you need
Arrange the page, app, or window exactly how you want it to appear.
- Step 2
Take a full screenshot
Press Ctrl + Show Windows to capture the entire screen.
- Step 3
Open capture options
Press Shift + Ctrl + Show Windows to open the Screen Capture toolbar.
- Step 4
Choose the capture type
Select full screen, partial area, or window capture from the toolbar.
- Step 5
Drag for a partial screenshot
If using partial capture, drag around the area and confirm the capture.
- Step 6
Find the screenshot
Open the notification or look in the Downloads folder or Tote area.
- Step 7
Crop or rename it
Edit, rename, or move the screenshot so it is easy to find later.
Practical Example
Example: You press Shift + Ctrl + Show Windows, choose partial capture, drag around an error message, and attach the screenshot to a support email.
Common Mistakes
- Pressing the wrong top-row key
- Capturing private tabs
- Forgetting where screenshots save
- Taking a blurry photo of the screen instead
- Sharing without cropping sensitive details
Troubleshooting
Shortcut does not work
Check whether the top row is set to function keys or use the Screen Capture button from quick settings.
Screenshot is not in Downloads
Check Tote, notifications, or recent files in the Files app.
Only part of the screen is captured
Use full-screen mode in the toolbar or press Ctrl + Show Windows.
Keyboard is missing Show Windows
Use the on-screen Screen Capture tool from quick settings.
Helpful Internal Links
FAQs
What is the Show Windows key?
It is usually the top-row key with a rectangle and two lines, used for overview and screenshots.
Can I take a partial screenshot?
Yes. Press Shift + Ctrl + Show Windows and choose partial capture.
Where are Chromebook screenshots saved?
They usually save to Downloads and may also appear in Tote or a notification.
Can Chromebooks record the screen?
Yes, the same Screen Capture toolbar can also switch to screen recording.
Related Guides
How to Take Screenshot on Mac
Learn how to take screenshots on Mac using keyboard shortcuts, screenshot toolbar, window capture, save location, mistakes, troubleshooting, and FAQs.
How to Screen Record on Windows
Learn how to screen record on Windows using built-in tools, choose audio, save files, avoid privacy mistakes, troubleshoot missing recording, and FAQs.
How to Make a QR Code
Learn how to make a QR code for a link, menu, file, or contact page with setup steps, safety notes, testing, mistakes, troubleshooting, and FAQs.
Help us improve this guide
Tell us about an outdated instruction, unclear step, broken link or safety concern. Do not include passwords, account numbers, medical records or other sensitive information.