FIX: Snipping tool, Snip & Sketch shortcut not working

Tashreef Shareef
by Tashreef Shareef
Windows & Software Expert
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  • The Snipping Tool is a Windows' dedicated screenshot tool that also allows minor image editing.
  • However, users have been reporting issues with accessing the Snipping Tool.
  • We have many more troubleshooting guides covering the topic in our dedicated Snipping Tool Issues page.
  • If other fixing guides are what you re looking for, then we also have a dedicated Windows 10 Fix section as well.
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Snipping Tool in Windows OS is a handy little utility that you can access by pressing the Windows + Shift + S shortcut key on your keyboard.

It allows the users to take snapshots of their screen and save or print it directly from the interface. However, some users have reported a snipping tool shortcut not working issue in Microsoft Community Forums.

After upgrading to Windows 10 the screenshot shortcut (Windows key + Prt Scr) stopped working.
I’ve tried to look for a setting but I haven’t found anything related.

Fix the problem with the Snipping Tool shortcut by following the steps below.

How do I fix the Snipping Tool issue in Windows 10?

1. Check Shortcut Key Properties

  1. From the desktop, right-click on the Snipping Tool icon and select Properties.
  2. If you don’t have the shortcut in the desktop, type snipping tool in the search bar.
    • Right-click on Snipping Tool Icon and select Open File Location.
  3. Right-click on Snipping Tool icon and select Properties.
  4. In the Properties window, click on the Shortcut tab.
  5. In the Shortcut Key: field, if it shows as None that means you don’t have any shortcut keys set to access the tool.
  6. Click on None and press any key on your Keyboard.
    • Note that you cannot use Windows Key + S combination as it is reserved for something else already.
  7. Click on Apply and OK to save the changes.
  8. Close the properties window and press the Shortcut key that you assigned to launch the Snipping tool and you should be able to access the tool without any issues.

Most users don’t know how to create and save screenshots on Windows 10. Learn how here!

2. Use the New Snip and Sketch Tool

  1. Microsoft is trying to replace the Snipping Tool with the new Snip and Sketch app.
    • As a result, Microsoft has now dedicated the Shift + Windows Key + S shortcut to the new Snipping Tool.
  2. Press the Shift + Windows Key + S shortcut key and you should be able to access the new Snip and Sketch tool.
    •  Alternatively, if you don’t want to use the long Shift + Windows Key + S  combination to open the Snip and Sketch tool, you can use the PrtSc (Print Screen) key to do the same.
      • Here is how to do it.
      • Click on Start and select Settings.
      • Click on Ease of Access.
      • Under the Interaction section, click on Keyboard.
      • Scroll down to Print Screen Shortcut and enable Use the PrtScn button to open screen sniping option.
        Enable PrtSc key snipping tool Shortcut
  3. That’s it. If you press the PrtSc key on your keyboard, it will open the Snipping Tool.

FAQ: Learn more about the Snipping Tool

  • How do I get the Snipping Tool?

The Snipping tool comes pre-installed with the Windows OS, so there is no need to download it from anywhere.

  • How do I fix the snipping tool not working?

If you notice frequent crashes with your Snipping Tool, then following certain troubleshooting steps will help you overcome this issue.

  • Where do I find the Snipping tool in Windows 10?

Press the Start button > Accessories > Snipping Tool

Editor’s Note: This post was originally published in July 2019 and has been since revamped and updated in June 2020 for freshness, accuracy, and comprehensiveness.

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Editor's Note: This article was originally published in July 2019 and was revamped and updated in August 2020 for freshness, accuracy, and comprehensiveness.
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