# 10 Screenshot Hacks Every Mac User Should Know Boost your productivity with these Mac screenshot tips. - **Source:** [Lifehacker](https://brifing.si/source/f1400ced-a26b-4e58-a567-6187eca3708d) - **Published:** 2026-08-07 - **Topic:** [Career Growth](https://brifing.si/c/growth) - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/ab2f6707-4351-437a-8cde-a572fe8649ee ## The Power of Screenshot Tools MacOS offers built-in screenshot tools that allow users to easily capture their screens. These tools not only take screenshots but also provide advanced features like screen recording and professional screencast creation. Apple continuously improves these tools to meet user needs. ## Avoid Clutter with Clipboard Saving Instead of saving most screenshots permanently, copying them to the clipboard prevents file clutter. Use Command-Control-Shift-3 or Command-Control-Shift-4 shortcuts to capture screenshots directly to the clipboard. This method allows you to paste images into any app without unnecessary file accumulation. ## Change the Default Save Folder Saving screenshots to a custom folder instead of the desktop ensures a tidy workspace. Access screenshot options with Command-Shift-5 and change the save location. You can add this folder to the Dock for quick access. ## Remove the Shadow Effect When capturing a single window, macOS adds a shadow effect by default. To remove it, press Command-Shift-4, then Spacebar, and hold the Option key while clicking the window. This results in cleaner, shadow-free screenshots. ## Add Screenshot Tool to the Dock Remembering keyboard shortcuts can be challenging, so adding the Screenshot tool to the Dock simplifies access. Navigate to Applications > Utilities in Finder and drag the Screenshot tool to the Dock for one-click access. ## Access All Tools with One Shortcut The Command-Shift-5 shortcut reveals all screenshot and recording options in one window. This method is ideal for users who struggle to remember shortcuts. It provides quick access to all necessary tools. ## Use a Timer for Preparation To capture fleeting moments, add a timer to your screenshot or recording process. Press Command-Shift-5, go to Options > Timer, and select a 5 or 10-second delay. This gives you time to set up your screen. ## Show Mouse Clicks Displaying mouse clicks in screen recordings is particularly useful for tutorial videos. Press Command-Shift-5, go to Options > Show mouse clicks, and enable the feature. This helps viewers follow your actions more easily. ## Sources covering this story - https://lifehacker.com/tech/10-screenshot-hacks-every-mac-user-should-know?utm_medium=RSS — --- _Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._