Taking screenshots on Linux - how to do it

On most Linux computers, you have several ways to take a screenshot. The fastest way to create a screenshot on Linux is by using the correct key combination. You can find out what these are and how to further edit screenshots in this article.

How to take a screenshot in Linux using a keyboard shortcut

The best way to take a screenshot using Linux's on-board tools is to use a keyboard shortcut. Depending on whether you want to capture the entire screen, just a single window, or a specific area of the screen, you will need different keyboard shortcuts. To take a screenshot of the entire screen, press the "Print" key. To take a picture of only one window or one area of the screen, press the "Alt" key or the "Ctrl" + "Alt" keys next to the print key.

These tools are suitable for taking a screenshot

In order to not only create and save screenshots under Linux, but also to make additional edits, you need an additional tool. In addition to the image editing tool GIMP, which contains its own screenshot function, the special screenshot program "Shutter" is particularly suitable for this.

1. To use Shutter, first install the program via the package manager of your Linux PC and open it after successful installation.
2. After that, click one of the three options "Selection", "Desktop" or "Window" at the top of the Shutter window to take the screenshot.
3. After taking the screenshot, it will be automatically saved in the image folder and a preview will be displayed in Shutter. To make changes, please click "Edit".
4. Thereupon the Shutter editor opens. You can now make markups or add annotations and save them by clicking "Save".