# How to take a partial screenshot on Mac

Canonical: https://www.lazyscreenshots.com/blog/partial-screenshot-mac/
Author: Ali Abouelatta (https://www.lazyscreenshots.com/authors/ali-abouelatta/)
Published: 2026-06-28
Updated: 2026-09-21
Research type: Sourced how-to guide
Method: Apple screenshot documentation and the saved local macOS screencapture manual, retrieved September 20, 2026. Command examples are syntax references only and were not executed; pixel dimensions are intentionally not benchmarked.

A partial screenshot is the right choice when the reader only needs one error, control, chart, or part of a window. It avoids making someone crop a full-screen capture later.

## Fastest method: Shift-Command-4

1. Press Shift-Command-4.
2. Drag the crosshair over the area you want.
3. Release the mouse or trackpad button.

Press Escape if you change your mind. Hold Space while dragging to move the rectangle without changing its size.

By default, the saved file goes to the Desktop. The Screenshot toolbar can change that destination.

## Use the Screenshot toolbar

Press Shift-Command-5 and choose the tool for capturing a portion of the screen. Drag the frame to resize or reposition it, then click Capture.

The current Mac user guide includes a “Remember Last Selection” option in Screenshot > Options. Turn it on when you are repeating the same region, such as before-and-after UI states. It is useful for consistency, but it does not guarantee the same output dimensions across different displays or display settings.

The toolbar’s Options menu also controls the save

[How to take a partial screenshot on Mac](<https://www.lazyscreenshots.com/blog/partial-screenshot-mac/>)

Source observed: 2026-09-21T09:23:17.338Z. Last checked: 2026-09-21T21:19:21.866+00:00.

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