The Print Screen Function
Computers that run on the Windows operating system have a native feature known as the "print screen function" that allows users to create an image of their screen. Keyboards that support the operating system have a print screen key.
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Identification
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Windows computer users can find the Print Screen button toward the right side of the keyboard. It is typically located to the right of the "F12" key, above the "Insert," "Home" and "Page Up" buttons. The key text may be abbreviated to "prt scr" or "ptr sc." The "SysRq" function also shares this button.
Function
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When the computer user presses this button, the computer takes a capture of the entire computer screen and saves it to the portion of the computer's memory known as the clipboard, which the SEO Consultants Directory describes as "an invisible holding area for content that is copied." The image remains in the clipboard until the user overwrites it with other copied data.
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Use
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By pressing "Ctrl" and "V" simultaneously, the user can then copy and paste the screen image into an image editor or other program that accepts the copied image such as instant messenger, presentation program, word processes or email client.
Benefits
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The print screen function allows users to share an image of their computer with others. It can be useful if a website or graphics designer wishes to show progress to a customer. Computer users may also use this feature to troubleshoot software programs. Screen captures are also useful in proving that a person or website made a specific statement, such as a slanderous claim or threat.
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