Sometimes when we store things on the computer, we still would like to be able to glance through what we have without turning it on, or searching through the programs. If this is you, and you would like some kind of index or thumbnail record of your photos in hard copy, I have learned a new trick for you (thank you, stay-at-home moms!):

Print out a screen shot of your photo file. Huh. Genius. I admit it, I just learned about this button on the computer, that was allegedly there all along. So I opened the file of pictures I wanted to index, and carefully followed these instructions from the Windows Help centre:

Take a screen capture (print screen)

Sometimes it’s easier to just show someone what you’re seeing on your computer screen instead of explaining it. In Windows, one easy solution is the PrtScn key. When you press it, an image of your screen is copied to the WindowsClipboard. This is called a screen capture or screen shot.

To print the screen capture or send it to someone in an e‑mail, you’ll first have to paste it into Paint or some other image-editing program and save it.

 To take a screen capture of the entire screen

1. Press PrtScn.
2. Click to open Paint.
3. On the Home tab, in the Clipboard group, click Paste.
4. If you want to resize the image, on the Home tab, in the Image group, click Resize.
5. Click the Paint button, and then click Save.

It’s also possible to capture a specific active window when you press PrtScn.

 To capture an active window

1. Press Alt+PrtScn.
2. Click to open Paint.
3. On the Home tab, in the Clipboard group, click Paste.
4. If you want to resize the image, on the Home tab, in the Image group, click Resize.
5. Click the Paint button, and then click Save.

Notes

• On some keyboards, PrtScn might appear as PRTSC, PRTSCN, or a similar abbreviation.
• Certain laptops and other mobile devices that lack a PrtScn key might use other key combinations, such as FN+Insert, to capture the screen. Check the manual that came with your laptop or device for specific instructions.

Then print out your screen shot for a handy quick-reference index of your photos!