How to Fix a Non-Working Print Screen Key on Your Computer

If you find that your Print Screen (PrtScn) key is not functioning, it's important to troubleshoot the issue effectively. Here are several steps you can take to diagnose and potentially fix the problem.

Check Keyboard Functionality

The first step is to check the functionality of the Print Screen key itself. Try the key in different applications like Paint or Word to see if it works elsewhere.

Alternatively, you can use another keyboard to determine if the issue is specific to your computer's built-in keyboard. If the problem persists, the key itself or the keyboard may need to be replaced.

Check Operating System Settings

Ensure that your operating system settings are not the cause of the issue. For example, in Windows 10, go to:

Settings > Devices > Ease of Access > Keyboard

Ensure that the Print screens option is enabled.

For Mac users, you can use the following keyboard shortcuts:

Pressing Command Shift 3 captures the entire screen. Pressing Command Shift 4 captures a specific area of the screen.

Use Alternative Methods

If the Print Screen key still isn't working, consider using alternative methods to take screenshots:

Windows Snipping Tool: Open the snipping tool to take screenshots without needing the Print Screen key. Snip Sketch: This tool is similar to Snipping Tool and provides more customization options. Alternative Shortcuts: Alt Print Screen: Captures the active window. Windows Shift S: Opens the Snipping Tool for custom screenshots.

Update or Reinstall Drivers

Ensure that your keyboard drivers are up to date. You can check this by going to:

Device Manager > expand the Keyboards category. Check for any updates by right-clicking your keyboard and selecting Update driver. Windows Updates: Make sure your system is up to date by checking for Windows updates.

Check for Software Conflicts

Some third-party applications like screen capture tools may interfere with the Print Screen function. Temporarily close or disable these applications to see if the issue is resolved.

Check Keyboard Settings

If you are using a gaming keyboard or a keyboard with customizable keys, ensure that the Print Screen key hasn't been remapped or disabled using the software that comes with your keyboard.

Run Keyboard Troubleshooter in Windows

In Windows 10, run the keyboard troubleshooter to diagnose common issues:

Go to Settings > Update Security > Troubleshoot > Additional troubleshooters > Keyboard.

Run the troubleshooter to automatically detect and fix issues.

Try Safe Mode

Boot your computer in Safe Mode to see if the issue is caused by a third-party application or service. You can do this by restarting your computer and pressing the F8 key (or the designated safe mode key for your system).

Conclusion

If none of these steps resolve the issue, there may be a hardware problem with your keyboard. In that case, you should consider replacing your keyboard or using a USB keyboard as an alternative.