How to take a screenshot on a Mac (there's no Print Screen key)

Why it happens

Mac keyboards don't have a Print Screen key, so screenshots use shortcuts instead. They all start with Shift and Command held down together, then a number key. Each one saves a picture file on your Desktop unless you change where screenshots go.

How to fix it

1. For the whole screen, hold Shift and Command and press 3. You'll hear a camera sound, and a small preview appears in the bottom-right corner.

2. For part of the screen, press Shift-Command-4. The pointer turns into a crosshair, so drag over the area you want and let go. Press Escape to cancel.

3. For one window, press Shift-Command-4, then press the space bar. The pointer turns into a camera, so click the window you want.

4. For all the options, press Shift-Command-5. The Screenshot toolbar lets you pick the whole screen, a window or an area, record a video of the screen, and choose where files go under Options.

5. Want the picture ready to paste instead of saved as a file? Add Control to any of these, for example Control-Shift-Command-4, then paste it with Command-V.

Still not fixed?

1. If the keys do nothing, check they're switched on. Open System Settings > Keyboard, click Keyboard Shortcuts, then Screenshots, and tick each one or click Restore Defaults.

   Keyboard›Keyboard Shortcuts…›Screenshots

2. Using a PC keyboard with your Mac? The Print Screen key won't work, but the Windows key acts as Command, so Shift, Windows and 3 together takes a screenshot.

3. Can't find the picture? It's on your Desktop by default. Press Shift-Command-5 and click Options to see the folder under Save to.

4. Prefer clicking to shortcuts? Open the Screenshot app in Applications, then Utilities. It opens the same toolbar.

5. If a video shows up black in your screenshot, the app is blocking captures on purpose. That's normal for many streaming apps.

6. If Shift, Command or a number key doesn't respond in any app, try another keyboard. If your MacBook's own keys are faulty, contact Apple Support or a repair shop.