Getting a screenshot on a Gateway laptop running Windows 11 isn’t exactly rocket science, but sometimes Windows makes it a bit more complicated than it needs to be. The usual method is to press Windows key + Print Screen, and Bob’s your uncle — the whole screen gets snapped and saved automatically. The image lands in the “Screenshots” folder inside Pictures. Fair enough, but there are times when this doesn’t quite work as expected or if, say, your keyboard shortcuts go on the blink. So, here’s what’s worked for me — might not be perfect, but definitely worth a go.
Method 1: The classic Win + PrtSc shortcut
This is the quickest way if it works on your machine. Usually, Windows knows to save the shot automatically when you hold Win + PrtSc. The good bit? It takes a snap of the whole display and dumps it straight into Pictures > Screenshots. That’s why checking that folder is the first stop when you’re chasing your image.
Why it helps: It’s quick, it’s built-in, and it’s generally reliable… when it does its thing.
When it applies: If you push the keys and nothing happens, or the screenshot isn’t saved, then maybe your shortcut’s having a sook or there’s a driver hiccup.
What to expect: A PNG file named “Screenshot (#)” in Pictures > Screenshots. Might depend on how your system handles paths, but you get the idea.
Possible snag: On some setups, the PrtSc key doesn’t trigger the save because it’s remapped or turned off by an app or driver. If that’s the case, try Alt + PrtSc to grab just the active window, then paste it into Paint or similar.
Method 2: Use the Snipping Tool or Snip & Sketch
If that didn’t do the trick, here’s another: switch to the Snipping Tools. Honestly, sometimes Windows’ shortcuts play up, especially if your keyboard is a bit funny or some background app is messing about.
Why it helps: You can pick exactly what part of the screen to grab. Perfect if you’re after a small window or a particular spot, not the whole lot.
When it applies: When the keyboard shortcut does bugger all, or if you want just a slice of the screen instead of the full monty.
What to expect: Hit Windows key + Shift + S, your screen dims a bit, and you can click and drag to select your area. The shot goes to your clipboard — you’ll get a prompt to edit or save it.
Pro tip: You can change where the screenshot gets saved or just paste it straight into Paint or Word. Very handy.
Why it helps: It’s more flexible and generally more dependable. Plus, you can hover over the selection and adjust before saving.
When it applies: If your PrtSc button isn’t doing its thing, or if you want a specific part instead of the full screen.
What to expect: A quick, precise grab, ready to paste or save in your go-to app.
And because Windows loves to keep us guessing, here are some extra tips from real-world trials:
- Check if the PrtSc key actually works on your keyboard. Sometimes you need to press Fn + PrtSc.
- If you’re on a laptop with a function key, you might have to tap Fn + PrtSc. Give it a quick go to see if it triggers a screenshot.
- In Settings, under Privacy & security > Keyboard, check if any app is blocking shortcuts.
- On Windows 11, you can also customise screenshot settings by heading to Settings > Accessibility > Keyboard and toggling options for shortcuts.
- Sometimes, the shortcut works once and then stops after a restart; no idea why, but a quick reboot can sometimes fix the shortcut’s mojo.
If you’re still having trouble, consider grabbing a dedicated screenshot app like Greenshot or ShareX. They’re free, reliable, and offer heaps of extra features like delayed captures or custom formats.
And a heads-up — screenshots can include personal info, so give it a quick squiz before sharing around.
Summary
- Press Windows key + Print Screen to grab the full screen and have it saved automatically.
- Find it in Pictures > Screenshots
- If that doesn’t work, try Shift + Windows + S to snip a part of the screen.
- You can edit or crop your shot using the built-in editor or paste it into another app.
- Keyboard shortcuts can be a pain, especially on laptops with Fn keys — give them a try.
Hopefully, this saves someone a bit of stress. Sometimes Windows plays up, but there’s usually a workaround. Good luck, mate!