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How to Fix Snipping Tool Shortcut Not Working in Windows 11: Step-by-Step Solutions

The Snipping Tool is a handy feature in Windows 11 that allows you to capture screenshots quickly. Sometimes, the shortcut to open the Snipping Tool may stop working, which can disrupt your workflow. Fortunately, fixing this issue is usually straightforward.

This guide will walk you through simple to advanced steps to get your Snipping Tool shortcut working again. Each step is explained clearly, so even beginners can follow along.

By the end, you’ll know how to troubleshoot and resolve common problems related to the Snipping Tool shortcut in Windows 11. Let’s get started and make screen capturing easy again.

Keep your system updated and follow the steps carefully for the best results.

Quick Note Before You Begin

Before diving into troubleshooting, make sure you have the following:

  • Windows 11 Updated: Keeping your system updated helps fix bugs automatically.
  • Check Your Keyboard: Sometimes, the shortcut key itself might be unresponsive due to hardware issues.
  • Ensure Snipping Tool is Installed: The Snipping Tool is a built-in app, but if it’s missing, the shortcut won’t work.
  • Confirm the Shortcut Key Combination: The default shortcut is Windows + Shift + S. Ensure you are using the correct keys.

Step 1: Restart Your Computer

Sometimes, simple issues like shortcut problems can be solved by restarting your computer. Restarting clears temporary glitches and refreshes Windows services.

How to restart:

  1. Click on the Start button (Windows icon) on the taskbar.
  2. Select the Power icon.
  3. Click Restart.

After your PC restarts, try using the shortcut Windows + Shift + S again to see if it works.

Step 2: Check if Snipping Tool Shortcut is Enabled

Windows allows you to enable or disable the Snipping Tool shortcut. If it’s disabled, the shortcut won’t open the tool.

Follow these steps to check:

  1. Press Windows + I to open Settings.
  2. Click on Accessibility from the left menu.
  3. Select Keyboard.
  4. Scroll down to find Use the Print Screen button to open screen snipping.
  5. Make sure this option is turned on.

If it was off, turn it on and try the shortcut again.

Step 3: Reset the Snipping Tool App

If the app itself is malfunctioning, resetting it can help fix corrupted settings or files related to the Snipping Tool.

To reset the Snipping Tool app:

  1. Press Windows + I to open Settings.
  2. Click on Apps > Installed apps.
  3. Find Snipping Tool in the list and click the three dots next to it.
  4. Select Advanced options.
  5. Scroll down and click Reset.
  6. Confirm when prompted.

Resetting will clear app data but won’t delete your saved screenshots. After resetting, test the shortcut again.

Step 4: Update Windows 11

Microsoft regularly releases updates that fix bugs and improve system features. An outdated system can cause the Snipping Tool shortcut to misbehave.

To update Windows:

  1. Open Settings by pressing Windows + I.
  2. Click on Windows Update on the left panel.
  3. Click Check for updates.
  4. If updates are available, download and install them.
  5. Restart the PC if required.

Once updated, try the shortcut again.

Step 5: Run Windows Troubleshooter for Keyboard

Sometimes, the problem is with your keyboard or shortcut recognition. Windows has a built-in troubleshooter to detect and fix keyboard-related issues.

Steps to run the troubleshooter:

  1. Open Settings (Windows + I).
  2. Go to System > Troubleshoot.
  3. Select Other troubleshooters.
  4. Find Keyboard and click Run.
  5. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the process.

After troubleshooting, test the shortcut again.

Step 6: Reassign or Create a New Shortcut

If the default shortcut still doesn’t work, you can create a custom shortcut to launch the Snipping Tool manually.

How to create a custom shortcut:

  1. Click the Start button and search for Snipping Tool.
  2. Right-click the app and select Open file location.
  3. In the File Explorer window, right-click the Snipping Tool shortcut and select Properties.
  4. Click on the Shortcut tab.
  5. Click inside the Shortcut key box and press the key combination you want to use (for example, Ctrl + Alt + S).
  6. Click Apply and then OK.

Now, try your new shortcut to open the Snipping Tool.

Alternative Method: Use Snip & Sketch App

Windows 11 also includes the Snip & Sketch app, which serves a similar purpose and has the same shortcut Windows + Shift + S. If Snipping Tool shortcut fails repeatedly, try using Snip & Sketch:

  • Press Windows + Shift + S to open Snip & Sketch’s snipping bar.
  • Select the type of screenshot you want.

This app is often more updated and might work if Snipping Tool has issues.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Why is my Snipping Tool shortcut not working?

Common reasons include disabled shortcut settings, outdated Windows, app corruption, or keyboard problems.

How do I confirm the shortcut is correct?

The default is Windows + Shift + S. Ensure you press all keys simultaneously.

Can third-party apps interfere with the Snipping Tool shortcut?

Yes, some screen capture or keyboard remapping software can block or override the shortcut.

Is the Snipping Tool the same as Snip & Sketch?

They are related but separate apps. Snip & Sketch has more features and is newer in Windows 11.

What if my keyboard keys don’t work?

Try plugging in a different keyboard or use the on-screen keyboard to check if the keys function properly.

Can I reinstall the Snipping Tool?

Yes, you can reinstall it from the Microsoft Store if it has been removed or corrupted.

When Nothing Works

If you have tried all the above steps and the Snipping Tool shortcut still does not work, consider these final options:

  • Use the Snipping Tool manually: Open it directly from the Start menu instead of using the shortcut.
  • Create a new user account: Sometimes user profile corruption causes issues.
  • Run System File Checker: Open Command Prompt as administrator and run sfc /scannow to repair system files.
  • Contact Microsoft Support: Visit the official Microsoft Support page for more help.

Conclusion

Fixing the Snipping Tool shortcut in Windows 11 usually involves simple steps like restarting your computer, checking settings, or resetting the app. Keeping Windows updated and ensuring your keyboard works correctly also helps prevent issues.

By following this step-by-step guide, you should be able to restore the shortcut’s functionality and capture screenshots with ease. If none of the solutions work, don’t hesitate to explore advanced options or seek official support.

Screen capturing is an essential productivity tool, and with these tips, you’ll be ready to fix any shortcut problems quickly.

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