How to do a screenshot in Linux?

Taking a screenshot in Linux is straightforward and can be done using shortcut keys, menus, or the command line.

One of the quickest ways is to use the PrintScreen key to capture the entire desktop or Alt + PrintScreen to capture just the currently active window. These shortcuts are common and also function under Windows, making the transition easy for users.

Beyond keyboard shortcuts, you can typically find a dedicated "Screenshot" tool within your applications menu. For users of certain desktop environments, like XFCE, accessing the tool via the menu is a standard option.

For those comfortable with the terminal, a command-line utility provides another flexible method for capturing your screen.

Methods for Taking Screenshots in Linux

Here are the primary ways to capture your screen in most Linux distributions:

1. Using Keyboard Shortcuts

This is often the fastest method for quick captures.

• Whole Desktop: Press the PrintScreen key (sometimes labeled PrtScn, PrntScrn, or similar).
• Active Window: Press Alt + PrintScreen.

When using these shortcuts, the screenshot is usually saved automatically to your "Pictures" or "Home" folder, or a prompt might appear asking where to save it, depending on your system's configuration.

2. Using the Applications Menu

Most desktop environments include a graphical screenshot utility accessible via the menu system.

• Navigate through your application menus, typically under Applications.
• Look for a category like Accessories or Utilities.
• Select the Screenshot application.

This application usually provides more options, such as setting a delay before capturing, capturing a specific area, or including the mouse pointer.

3. Using the Command Line

For automation or scripting, the command line is powerful. Specific commands depend on the installed screenshot tool, but a common one mentioned in the reference is xfce4-screenshooter.

• Open a terminal window.
• Type the command for your desired screenshot tool. For example, using the XFCE utility:

  xfce4-screenshooter

  Executing xfce4-screenshooter typically brings up a graphical interface with options. You can also often use command-line arguments for automated captures.

Summary of Methods

Here's a quick overview of the techniques:

Method	Action	Result	Notes
Keyboard Shortcut	Press PrintScreen	Capture entire desktop	Fast, often saves automatically
Keyboard Shortcut	Press Alt + PrintScreen	Capture active window	Fast, often saves automatically
Applications Menu	Navigate to Accessories > Screenshot	Depends on app options	Provides more control (delay, area, etc.)
Command Line	Type xfce4-screenshooter (example)	Depends on command/options	Useful for scripting and automation

These methods provide flexibility for different user preferences and needs when capturing visual information from the Linux desktop.