How do I start a screen recording?

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“How do I start a screen recording? I’m using a Windows 10 laptop and want to create a video tutorial for my work, but I’m not familiar with recording tools. What’s the simplest way to begin a screen recording? Do I need to install special software, or is there a built-in feature? Also, how do I specify which part of my screen to record, like just an application window instead of my entire desktop?”

Starting a Screen Recording on Different Devices:

Windows (10 or 11):

  1. Press Windows Key + G to open the Game Bar.
    • If prompted, ensure "Game Bar" is enabled in Settings > Gaming > Game Bar.
  2. Click the "Record" button (circle icon) or press Windows Key + Alt + R to start recording.
  3. Stop Recording:
    • Click the red recording indicator, or press Windows Key + Alt + R again.
    • Files save to Videos\Captures by default.

macOS (using built-in Screenshot Tool):

  1. Press Shift + Command + 5.
    • The on-screen controls appear, including options for recording.
  2. Select "Record Entire Screen" (red rectangle border) or "Record Selected Portion" (drag to select area).
  3. Click "Record" (button in the control panel).
  4. Stop Recording:
    • Click the red stop button in the menu bar.
    • Files save to your desktop by default.

iOS (iPhone/iPad):

  1. Add Screen Recording to Control Center:
    • Go to Settings > Control Center > Customize Controls.
    • Tap the + next to "Screen Recording" to add it.
  2. Start Recording:
    • Swipe down (or up on iPhone X or later) to open Control Center.
    • Long-press the Screen Recording icon.
    • Tap Start Recording (or enable Microphone Audio if needed).
  3. Stop Recording:
    • Tap the red status bar, then "Stop".
    • Files save to Photos.
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Android (Android 10 or Later):

  1. Open Quick Settings:
    • Swipe down twice from the top of the screen to reveal Quick Settings.
  2. Long-press the Screen Recording icon (or add it if missing: Settings > Display > Quick Settings).
  3. Configure Options:
    • Choose video quality, resolution, or enable microphone audio.
  4. Tap "Start" to begin recording.
  5. Stop Recording:
    • Tap the red floating icon or notification.
    • Files save to Gallery/Photos or specified folder.

Google Chrome Browser (for webpages only):

  1. Install the GoRecord extension or Loom from the Chrome Web Store.
  2. Click the extension icon in your toolbar.
  3. Select "Record Entire Tab" or "Capture Specific Area."
  4. Press "Start Recording."
  5. Stop to save the video directly to your computer or cloud.

General Tips:

  • Clear Notifications: Hide sensitive pop-ups/notifications before recording.
  • Test Audio: Ensure microphone access is enabled if capturing voice/sound.
  • Save Location: Confirm automatic save settings to avoid losing recordings.
  • Permissions: Grant necessary permissions (camera/microphone) when prompted.
  • Keyboard Shortcuts: Memorize shortcuts (e.g., Win+Alt+R on Windows) for quick access.

Note: Steps may vary slightly by device model or software version. Always check built-in help documentation for tailored instructions.

Published: September 25, 2025