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How to Extract Text from any Screen Shot on Windows 11

Use the Snipping Tool's OCR feature to copy text directly from images, videos, or websites that block selection.

Have you ever wanted to copy text from a YouTube video or a locked PDF? Now you can with the Windows 11 Snipping Tool.

1. Capture the Image

Press Win + Shift + S and capture the area containing the text you want.

2. Open Text Actions

Click the notification to open the full Snipping Tool editor. At the top, click the Text Actions icon (it looks like a small square with four lines).

3. Copy Your Text

Windows will highlight all detectable text. You can then:

  • Click Copy all text.
  • Select a specific part with your mouse and right-click to copy.

4. Redacting Sensitive Info

The same menu also has a Quick Redact option. It can automatically hide email addresses or phone numbers before you share the screenshot!

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ScreenShotHow Team

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