How to Convert a Screen Shot Image Into a .JPG

Use screen shots to capture error messages to help diagnose problems.

Screen shots are useful when, for example, you create training manuals on how to use certain software applications. Displaying a picture of the interface for a reference can help users understand what they are required to do, and when. PC keyboards have a "Print Screen" key, usually at the top-right of the keyboard, which copies the system screen to the Windows clipboard. You can then paste the image into a graphics application such as Microsoft Paint, and save it in a variety of graphics formats, including .JPG.

Instructions

1. Set up the screen display that you want to capture, then press the "Print Screen" key on the keyboard to copy an image of the screen to the clipboard.

2. Click "Start," "Accessories" and "Paint."

3. Click the "Paste" icon, which has a picture of a clipboard, on the left of the main toolbar. Windows copies the screen grab into the Paint image and automatically resizes the canvas to fit.

4. Click the "Save" icon at the top of the "Paint" window to save the file. In the "Save As" dialog box, change "Save as type" to "JPEG" to save the file as a .JPG image.

Tips & Warnings

• To capture an active window rather than the whole screen, hold down the "Alt" key on the keyboard while you press the "Print Screen" key.

• Be careful when setting up screen shots that you do not inadvertently capture private information which may be displayed in a background window or similar location.

References

• Microsoft Windows: Take A Screen Capture (Print Screen)
• Microsoft Windows: Paint - Windows 7 Features
• Microsoft Windows: Using Paint

Resources

• Microsoft Office: Copy the Window or Screen Contents
• Microsoft Windows: Take a Screen Capture (Print Your Screen)