A screenshot, sometimes referred to as a screencap or screengrab, is an image that shows the contents of a computer display. Screenshots let you capture exactly what you’re seeing on your screen to share with others or reference later.
Taking, saving, and sharing screenshots can be extremely helpful. In fact, some insist that the screenshot is the most important thing on the internet. But how can a simple picture of your screen be so vital? Well, you see, screenshots often act as a new age artifact. They serve as a way to prove to others that you’re really seeing the crazy stuff you’re seeing.
Not only do they help you prove your case, they also help you archive the past. For example, they can help you capture what a website looked like before the latest brand refresh, that weird error message you got a couple months ago, or even a juicy gossip article you don’t want to risk forgetting.
How can I use screenshots?
Screenshots aren’t just handy, they’re also revolutionary to getting more work done, faster.
About Tech echoes the belief that screenshots can be extremely helpful when you need to demonstrate something that would otherwise be difficult to explain in words. Afterall, a picture is worth a thousand words!
3 Ways Screenshots Can Help You Get More Work Done
1. Collaborate with Others
Does your coworker want your input on a new webpage they’ve put together? Or do they need you to look over a brochure they’re having printed? Instead of writing a lengthy email with edits, take a screenshot and wow your coworker with excellent, efficient feedback.
Marking up design concepts onscreen is faster and more effective than a wordy email
2. Demonstrate How to Perform a Function
Don’t just tell. Show. Demonstrate exactly what you’re talking about with a screenshot. By using a screenshot that shows exactly what you mean, there’s less chance that you’ll be misunderstood. And that means less confusion, less time explaining, and more time back in your day.
For example, explain to a new employee how to login. Instead of telling them, you can quickly send them a screenshot that they can reference again and again without having to repeatedly ask you.
A screenshot with numbered steps is quick to make and easy to understand
3. Show Exactly What’s Happening
If you’ve ever contacted your IT or Web Support Team to report a bug, you’ve likely been asked to provide a screenshot. That’s because not everyone’s computer is the same. Depending on your machine, the operating system it’s running, the browser version you’re on, the way something appears for you could be completely different for others.
Providing a visual example of what you’re looking at helps others see exactly what’s going on and identify what might be going wrong.
A screenshot of an error message helps avoid confusion by showing someone exactly what you’re seeing
The best part about screenshots? They’re easy! As Buffer notes, screenshots are powerful yet simple to use. In fact, it only takes a second to make a screenshot. So start using screenshots today, and download a free trial of Snagit now.
