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December 28, 2023

4 ways to use the Snipping Tool that you didn't know about

Windows 11 comes with a Snipping Tool that goes beyond basic screenshot capabilities. From copying and pasting text from a screenshot to a built-in ruler and protractor, your Snipping Tool offers a variety of hidden features. Let’s learn how to fully utilize the Snipping Tool and why it’s a must-have for Windows users.

1. Copy and paste text from screenshots

Did you know that the Snipping Tool allows you to extract text from your screenshots? Follow these simple steps to copy and paste text from screenshots:

  1. Open the Snipping Tool on your toolbar or select Win + Shift + S.
  2. Select the New option to capture the desired portion of your screen.
  3. Once captured, select Copy all text on the toolbar or use a keyboard shortcut like Ctrl + A or Ctrl + C.
  4. Paste the text directly into a document or any text editor of your choice.

Whether it's a quote from a webpage, an error message, or any information you need to save, the Snipping Tool makes grabbing and using text from your screenshots a breeze.

2. Utilize the ruler for precision

Need to measure the length of an object or space on your screen? The Snipping Tool comes with a built-in ruler feature that ensures precision. Here’s how to use it:

  1. Open the Snipping Tool.
  2. Select the New option and capture the area you want to measure.
  3. Once captured, select the Ruler option on the toolbar.
  4. Move the ruler up and down or rotate the ruler to take measurements.
  5. Draw parallel to the ruler to create straight lines.

Perfect for graphic designers, architects, or anyone requiring precise measurements, the Snipping Tool’s ruler feature is a handy addition to your toolkit.

3. Measure angles with the protractor

For those working with angles and shapes, the Snipping Tool goes the extra mile by providing a protractor feature. Follow these steps to measure angles on your screen:

  1. Open the Snipping Tool.
  2. Select the New option and capture the area containing the angle you want to measure.
  3. Select the Protractor option from the toolbar.
  4. Place the protractor over the vertex of the angle you’re measuring.
  5. Select a drawing tool.
  6. Draw along the protractor to measure the angle in degrees.
    • Selecting Undo will remove the line but keep the measurement.

Whether you’re a student working on geometry problems or a professional dealing with design, the protractor feature adds a new dimension to your snipping capabilities.

4. The Snipping Tool delay

Timing is everything, and with the Snipping Tool delay feature, you have control over when your screenshots are captured. Here’s how to use this valuable function:

  1. Open the Snipping Tool.
  2. Select the New option and choose the area you want to capture.
  3. Select the Delay option in the menu.
  4. Choose a delay of 3, 5, or 10 seconds before the screenshot is taken.

Perfect for capturing dynamic content or preparing for screenshots within a specific timeframe, the Snipping Tool delay is a game-changer for users seeking flexibility in their snipping endeavors.

There you have it—four incredible ways to make the most of your Snipping Tool in Windows 11 Unlock the full potential of your Snipping Tool and take your screenshot game to new heights with Windows 11.

DISCLAIMER: Features and functionality subject to change. Articles are written specifically for the United States market; features, functionality, and availability may vary by region.

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