Capturing a Screenshot on an iPad: A Step-by-Step Guide

Capturing a Screenshot on Your Pad: A Simple Guide

No ifs, ands, or buts about it—when it comes to online proof, a picture equals a thousand words. From entertaining iMessages to tech rulers asking for help, screenshots are essential on your iPad, be it the classic or the latest model. This article breaks down all the methods to capture a screenshot on your tablet.

Shooting Screenshots on the Modern Pad: The No-Home-Button Edge

From the classic Pad to the Air and the Pro, the latest models don't miss the Home button. Instead, they sport the power button at the top, and the volume controls sit on the sides. On the Mini, all three buttons hug the top.

Here is the game plan to snap a screenshot:

1. Pressie Time: Press the Power and Volume Down buttons simultaneously.
2. Thumbnail Timeout: The moment you snap the shot, a tiny thumbnail appears at the bottom left corner of your Pad for a short while.
3. Preview, Edit, or Ignore: You have two options – tap the thumbnail to open the "Markup" view for annotation, swipe left to dismiss it, or wait for it to fade away; your screenshot isn't lost in the process.

Credit: Khamosh Pathak

Screenshots on the Vintage Pad: The Home Button Flaunt

Still clinging to your iPad with a Home button? Don't worry – we've got you covered. The steps to take a screenshot remain the same:

1. Press It Like It's Hot: Press the Home button and the Power button at the same time.

Credit: Khamosh Pathak

Framing Screenshots with Typing Magic: Keyboard Shortcuts

Tapping isn't your thing? The Pad also offers keyboard shortcuts to capture screenshots, just like on a MAC.

1. Command-Shift-3: Snap an entire screen image.
2. Command-Shift-4: Opens the "Markup" view for instant editing/annotation.

Credit: Khamosh Pathak

Boxed-in Moments: Screenshots using Corner Gestures

If you've got your iPad running iPadOS 15 or later, enjoy the hidden gem called "Corner Gestures."

1. It's in the Settings: Go to Settings > Multitasking & Gestures.
2. Enable this MAGIC: Enable the "Swipe Finger from Corner" feature. Choose "Screenshot" from the "Bottom Left Corner" or "Bottom Right Corner" options. Enter this Wonderland:

Swiping in from the bottom left corner now takes a screenshot, landing directly in the "Markup" feature, giving you the freedom to edit. Simply swipe, make any adjustments, and hit the "Share" button to save or share your screenshot.

Screenshots with a Single Tap

Not fond of button presses or keyboard shortcuts? Let's use accessibility features to take a screenshot:

1. Head to Settings: Navigate to Settings > Accessibility > Touch > AssistiveTouch.
2. Activate AssistiveTouch: Switch on the "AssistiveTouch" feature.
3. Customize Your Menu: Add a new button, and select "Screenshot" as the new icon's function.

Now, tap the floating circle wherever on your tablet, and the "Screenshot" option will light up, making capturing your tech find easily achievable.

With the latest Pad versions equipped with multiple ways of taking screenshots, you can easily capture tech-related information, like spicy iMessage conversations or tech support requests.

Editors' Tips:

• If you want a sharper photo, make sure to press the buttons accurately.
• Use the "Markup" view for annotation or editing.
• Enjoy the swipe gesture feature to take a screenshot.
• If button presses aren't your thing, accessibility features are here to save the day.