Once Installed / Enabled the Vista Snipping Tool is a great free application bundled with Windows Vista and Windows 7.  It’s easy to install or enable.  The Snipping Tool is a great for taking screen shots or “snips” and then annotate, save or share/email the image or snapshots of your screen.  Just follow these simple steps to enable it:

Step 1: Click the Windows Start Button and click Control Panel

Step 2: Click Programs icon

Step 3: Click Turn Windows features on or off as highlighted above

Step 4 (Final step): Check the box Tablet PC Optional Components.

All Done!  The Snipping Tool should now be installed in your Accessories Folder:

• Windows Start Button
• All Programs
• Accessories
• Snipping Tool

Note: Windows 7 comes with the Snipping tool enabled and the How-To above does not apply as you cannot disable it using the Windows Feature Menu/Options.  That being said, the Windows 7 Snipping tool is only available  in the Home Premium, Professional, and Ultimate/Enterprise editions of Windows 7.  It’s funny how Microsoft didn’t include it with all versions as I feel it’s just as important as the Calculator or Notepad but whatever…

Disclaimer – All captures with the exception of the “SnagIt” capture below made using: SnagIt V8.2.3………

Tags: how-to, Microsoft, screenshot, snipping tool, Windows 7, windows vista