Why is Snipping Tool Not Working? How to Fix Snipping Tool Not Working?
by Venkatesh P | Updated Jul 18, 2023
What is Snipping Tool?
The Snipping Tool refers to a screenshot utility that is integrated into Windows Vista and subsequent versions. It offers multiple methods for capturing screenshots, including rectangular areas defined by the user, free-form areas determined by the user, and full-screen shots.
These captured screenshots are referred to as "snips" and can be edited using the tool's built-in editor, which provides basic editing features and allows for annotations. Following the editing process, the snips can be saved in various commonly used image formats.
Why is Snipping Tool Not Working?
If you are experiencing difficulties with the Snipping Tool, there could be various reasons for its malfunction. Based on search results, here are some potential causes to consider:
How to Fix Snipping Tool Not Working?
To resolve issues with the Snipping Tool in Windows 11, it is recommended to follow these solutions:
Reboot your computer:
Restarting Windows 11 can clear any temporary problems or bugs that might be interfering with the Snipping Tool.
Verify keyboard shortcuts:
Ensure that the keyboard shortcuts you are using to launch the Snipping Tool are correct. Default shortcuts can be easy to forget, so double-check them. Also, disable any keyboard toggles, such as the Function key, that may cause interference.
Install the Snipping Tool:
Visit the Snipping Tool download page on the Microsoft Store, select "Get in Store App," and follow the prompts to install it on your computer.
Reset the Snipping Tool application: Search for Snipping Tool in Windows Search or the Start Menu, right-click on it, select "App Settings," scroll down, choose "Reset," and wait for the reset to complete.
Turn off Focus Assist:
Disable Focus Assist, a feature designed to minimize distractions but may also block desired programs from launching. Additionally, disable any similar third-party programs, such as time management or parental control apps.
Check system time:
Verify that your computer's system time is accurate, as incorrect time settings can cause unexpected issues with app functionality.
Run Windows Update:
Ensure that you have the latest version of Windows installed by running Windows Update. This will download any necessary patches and driver updates. Remember to restart your computer after the update process.
Reinstall the Snipping Tool:
If the previous steps did not resolve the issue, uninstall the Snipping Tool and then reinstall it using the instructions provided in Step 3.
Common Error Messages in Snipping Tool
When encountering issues with the Snipping Tool, it is common to come across various error messages. Based on the search results, here are several error messages that users may encounter:
"This app can't open":
This error message may indicate a problem with the Snipping Tool app or its incomplete installation.
"Snipping Tool not responding":
This error message suggests that the Snipping Tool is unresponsive or that there is an issue with its settings.
"Snipping Tool has stopped working":
This error message implies a problem with the Snipping Tool's installation or the presence of corrupted system files on the computer.
"Snipping Tool won't open":
This error message signifies difficulties with the Snipping Tool's settings or its incomplete installation.
"Snipping Tool not working on Windows 11":
This error message may arise from compatibility issues between the Snipping Tool and Windows 11 or due to corrupted system files on the computer.
If you encounter any of these error messages, please refer to the solutions provided in the previous response to address the Snipping Tool's malfunctioning issue.
What Are The Different Capture Modes Available In Snipping Tool?
The Snipping Tool provides users with various capture modes to facilitate the process of taking screenshots in different ways. Based on available information, here are the different capture modes offered by the Snipping Tool:
Rectangular mode:
This default mode enables users to capture screenshots in a rectangular shape.
Window mode:
Users can utilize this mode to capture screenshots of specific windows on their screen by selecting the desired window.
Full-screen mode:
This mode allows users to capture screenshots of the entire screen, encompassing all visible elements.
Free-form mode:
By utilizing this mode, users have the flexibility to capture screenshots of any shape or size they draw on the screen using their mouse or touchpad.
In addition, the Snipping Tool for Windows 10 includes additional features not found in the Windows 7 version. The Mode button allows users to select the desired screenshot type, while the Delay button enables them to delay the screen capture for up to 5 seconds.
The Snipping Tool offers a range of capture modes that cater to different screenshot requirements, providing users with versatility and flexibility in their screenshot-taking endeavors.
Why Is Snipping Tool Not Working - FAQ
The Snipping Tool is a built-in screenshot utility in Windows Vista and later versions that allows users to capture screenshots in various ways, including rectangular areas, free-form shapes, and full-screen shots.
There could be several reasons why the Snipping Tool is not functioning properly, such as being connected to other apps or processes, inactive silent mode, incorrect linkage to the Pokemon Sleep app, corrupted system files, or conflicts with policy settings on the PC.
To address Snipping Tool issues, you can try disconnecting it from other apps or processes, activating silent mode, ensuring proper linkage to the Pokemon Sleep app, performing an SFC scan to repair system files, adjusting registry files, or restarting your computer.
Common error messages include "This app can't open," "Snipping Tool not responding," "Snipping Tool has stopped working," "Snipping Tool won't open," and "Snipping Tool not working on Windows 11."
The Snipping Tool offers capture modes such as rectangular mode (default), window mode, full-screen mode, and free-form mode. The Windows 10 version also includes a Mode button for selecting the screenshot type and a Delay button for delaying captures.