Whether you use the tried-and-true keyboard shortcuts for taking screenshots or prefer to go through the Preview app or the Screenshot app (in Mojave or later) for that purpose, one of these fixes should get your Mac’s screenshot feature up and running.
Possible Causes for Mac Screenshot Issues
When you can’t take a screenshot on a Mac, you’re missing a valuable tool for troubleshooting and communicating ideas through email and text messages. Since it’s rare that screenshots don’t work on a Mac, it may be easy to discover why your Mac isn’t performing as expected. It’s wise to start by confirming that the keyboard is responsive. If you notice issues with specific keys or momentary unresponsiveness, try these Mac keyboard troubleshooting tips. Other places to look include the Mac’s keyboard shortcut settings for screenshots and the built-in Screenshot app.
How to Fix it When You Can’t Take a Mac Screenshot
If everything else works correctly on the Mac, the keyboard is working correctly and isn’t the problem. There are several other things you can do to pinpoint the reason why your Mac’s screenshot function won’t work. If the screenshot feature on your Mac isn’t working, shut down the Mac and turn it on again. Then take a screenshot according to your preferred method, whether that’s keyboard shortcuts or the Screenshot app. To check this, go to System Preferences > Keyboard > Shortcuts. There you can see whether keyboard shortcuts have been turned off or reassigned to other actions.
