When the “Snipping Tool” stops working, it’s usually due to one of several common causes. These include outdated system updates, corrupted app files, disabled permissions, or temporary glitches within the operating system. Sometimes, background apps or incorrect keyboard shortcut settings can also interfere with how the tool functions.
What makes this issue tricky is that it doesn’t always show a clear error message. You might click the app and nothing happens, or it opens but fails to capture screenshots. In other cases, the shortcut “Windows + Shift + S” simply stops responding.
In this guide, we’ll walk through everything you need to know in a clear way, so you can fix the issue without feeling overwhelmed.
Let’s go!
How to Fix ‘Snipping Tool Not Working’ in Windows 11?
To fix the “Snipping Tool not working in Windows 11” issue, restart the app, update Windows, repair or reset the Snipping Tool from Settings, check for system file errors, and ensure the correct keyboard shortcut is enabled. These steps resolve the most common problems like crashes, blank screens, or the app not opening.
Let’s go through them one by one.
Step 1: Restart the Snipping Tool and Your Computer
The first and easiest fix is often the most effective. Temporary glitches can cause the “Snipping Tool” to stop responding, and a simple restart can clear these issues.
Start by closing the Snipping Tool completely. Open “Task Manager” by pressing “Ctrl + Shift + Esc”, find the Snipping Tool in the list, and click “End Task”. Once done, try reopening the app.
If that doesn’t work, restart your computer. This refreshes all system processes and often resolves minor bugs that interfere with apps. Many users find that this alone fixes the issue without needing further steps.
Step 2: Check for Windows Updates
An outdated system can cause compatibility issues with built-in apps like the “Snipping Tool”. Microsoft regularly releases updates that fix bugs and improve performance.
Go to “Settings”, then click on “Windows Update”. Select “Check for updates” and install any available updates. Once the update is complete, restart your system and test the Snipping Tool again.
Keeping your system updated ensures that all built-in tools function correctly and reduces the chances of recurring issues.
Step 3: Repair the Snipping Tool App
If the app is still not working, it might have corrupted files. Windows provides a built-in repair option that can fix these problems without deleting your data.
Open “Settings”, go to “Apps”, then select “Installed apps”. Find “Snipping Tool”, click on the three dots next to it, and choose “Advanced options”. Scroll down and click “Repair”.
This process checks the app for issues and fixes them automatically. Once completed, try using the tool again.
Step 4: Reset the Snipping Tool
If repairing doesn’t solve the problem, resetting the app is the next step. This will restore the app to its default state.
Follow the same path as before in “Advanced options”, but this time click on “Reset”. Keep in mind that this will remove any saved settings within the app.
After resetting, launch the Snipping Tool and check if it works properly. This step is particularly effective for persistent issues.
Step 5: Enable the Snipping Tool Shortcut
Many users rely on the shortcut “Windows + Shift + S”, but sometimes this feature gets disabled.
Go to “Settings”, then “Accessibility”, and look for “Keyboard” settings. Make sure the option for using the “Print Screen” button to open screen snipping is enabled.
If the shortcut was the issue, enabling this setting should immediately restore functionality.
Step 6: Check Date and Time Settings
This might sound surprising, but incorrect date and time settings can affect how certain apps work, including the “Snipping Tool”.
Go to “Settings”, then “Time & Language”, and ensure your date and time are set correctly. Turn on “Set time automatically” if it’s disabled.
Once updated, restart your computer and test the tool again.
Step 7: Run System File Checker
If system files are corrupted, built-in apps may stop functioning properly. The “System File Checker” can scan and repair these files.
Open “Command Prompt” as an administrator and type the command:
sfc /scannow
Press Enter and wait for the scan to complete. This process may take some time, but it can fix deeper system issues affecting the Snipping Tool.
Step 8: Reinstall the Snipping Tool
If none of the above steps work, reinstalling the app can provide a fresh start.
Open “PowerShell” as an administrator and uninstall the Snipping Tool. Then, reinstall it from the “Microsoft Store”.
This ensures that you’re using a clean and updated version of the app without any corrupted files.
Other Issues & Fixes for Snipping Tool in Windows 11
Sometimes the problem isn’t just that the “Snipping Tool” won’t open. There are several other issues users commonly face.
If the screen turns black while capturing, it could be due to graphics driver issues. Updating your display drivers can resolve this.
If the tool opens but doesn’t save screenshots, check the default save location and permissions. Make sure the app has access to your storage.
If the delay feature isn’t working, resetting the app usually fixes it.
Another common issue is the tool freezing during use. This can happen due to background apps consuming too many resources. Closing unnecessary apps can improve performance.
In some cases, antivirus software may block the Snipping Tool. Temporarily disabling the antivirus can help you identify if it’s causing the problem.
Faqs
Why is my ‘Snipping Tool’ not opening in Windows 11?
This usually happens due to corrupted app files, outdated system updates, or temporary glitches. Restarting the app or repairing it from settings often fixes the issue.
How do I enable the Snipping Tool shortcut?
Go to Settings, then Accessibility, and enable the option for using the Print Screen button to open screen snipping.
Can I reinstall the Snipping Tool in Windows 11?
Yes, you can uninstall it using PowerShell and reinstall it from the Microsoft Store.
Why does my screen turn black when using the Snipping Tool?
This is often caused by outdated or incompatible graphics drivers. Updating your drivers can resolve the issue.
Does resetting the Snipping Tool delete my screenshots?
No, resetting the app only removes its settings. Your saved screenshots will remain safe.