Shortcut Keys for Screenshot on Mac

Table of Contents

1. Why Taking Screenshots on Mac is Important
2. Screenshot Shortcuts for Mac – Full List
3. Step-by-Step Instructions
   • Command (⌘) + Shift + 3
   • Command (⌘) + Shift + 4
   • Command (⌘) + Shift + 4 + Spacebar
   • Command (⌘) + Shift + 5
   • Command (⌘) + Shift + 6 (For Touch Bar MacBooks)
4. Where Are Screenshots Saved on Mac?
5. Using the Screenshot App
6. Bonus Tip: Annotate Your Screenshots
7. Conclusion
8. FAQ

Taking a screenshot is one of the simplest yet most powerful features your Mac offers. Whether you're trying to save a webpage, capture an error message, or show off a design, screenshots come in handy every day. If you're new to macOS or simply need a refresher, this blog will guide you through all the screenshot shortcuts on Mac, explained in easy and clear steps.

Why Taking Screenshots on Mac is Important

Screenshots are used across all professions and situations. On a Mac, they're especially important for:

• Sharing visual information quickly
• Reporting bugs or issues
• Saving receipts or documents
• Creating tutorials and training materials
• Saving ideas or designs

Screenshot Shortcuts for Mac – Full List

Step-by-Step Instructions

Command + Shift + 3 – Capture Entire Screen

This shortcut captures everything on your screen.

1. Press Command (⌘) + Shift + 3.
2. You will hear a camera sound.
3. The screenshot is saved to your desktop.

Command + Shift + 4 – Capture Selected Area

This lets you capture part of the screen.

1. Press Command + Shift + 4.
2. Your cursor becomes a crosshair.
3. Click and drag the area you want to capture.
4. Release to take the shot.

Command + Shift + 4, then Spacebar – Capture Window

1. Press Command + Shift + 4.
2. Then press the Spacebar. Your cursor becomes a camera.
3. Click on the window you want to capture.

Command + Shift + 5 – Screenshot Toolbar

1. Press Command + Shift + 5.
2. A toolbar appears with multiple screenshot/recording options.
3. Choose from full screen, selected portion, or record screen.

Command + Shift + 6 – Screenshot Touch Bar

Only for MacBook Pro with Touch Bar.

1. Press Command + Shift + 6.
2. The image of the Touch Bar is saved to your desktop.

Where Are Screenshots Saved on Mac?

By default, screenshots are saved to your desktop with names like:

You can change the default location via the Screenshot toolbar (Command + Shift + 5) → Options → Choose Save Location.

Using the Screenshot App

To open manually:

1. Press Command + Spacebar to open Spotlight.
2. Type “Screenshot” and press Enter.

The app gives you full control with timers, pointers, audio settings, and recording tools.

Bonus Tip: Annotate Your Screenshots

Once a screenshot is taken, click its preview (bottom-right corner) to open markup tools. You can:

• Draw or write on it
• Add text boxes
• Insert shapes or arrows

Conclusion

Mac makes taking screenshots incredibly easy with powerful shortcuts. Whether you're snapping your full screen, a selected area, or even recording video, the built-in tools are enough for most users. Try out these shortcuts and make your workflow faster and more efficient.

FAQ

1. What is the shortcut key to take a screenshot on Mac?

The most common is Command + Shift + 3 to capture the full screen. For other options, use Command + Shift + 4 or Command + Shift + 5.

2. How do I capture a specific window on Mac?

Use Command + Shift + 4, then press the Spacebar, and click the window.

3. Where are screenshots saved?

By default, screenshots are saved to your desktop. You can change this using the Screenshot toolbar.

4. Can I record my screen with Mac shortcuts?

Yes, use Command + Shift + 5 and select the screen recording option.

5. What if I have a Touch Bar?

If your Mac has a Touch Bar, use Command + Shift + 6 to capture it.

6. Can I edit a screenshot after capturing?

Yes! Click the screenshot preview to annotate, crop, and edit using Mac’s built-in tools.