I wanted to post on the use of screenshots, which is a helpful tool in the computer world. I've done it in Question and Answer format, and hopefully in plain English!
Q:
What is a screenshot?
A:
A screenshot is an all-inclusive snapshot of what is on your computer screen, right now. Screenshots are time sensitive because what you see right now might be completely different than 5 seconds ago.
Q:
Why are screenshots used?
A:
It can be difficult to communicate to others what our computer is doing, and how that's different from what we want it to do. Quite often, this is due to a limitation in language. A screenshot is a great way to say "look, that's what it's doing," and have the other person say "oh, I see now." This can be much more effective than a verbal description of the computer's behavior.
Q:
When should I give someone a screenshot?
A:
When your computer shows a confusing or contradictory dialog box, or when you can't find the right button to click on, those are examples of when a screenshot would be helpful. When your problem is easy to see, but hard to tell -- that's a good way to judge whether a screenshot is appropriate or not.
Q:
When should I not use a screenshot?
A:
When a credit card number or other sensitive information is viewable on your screen, you should avoid using a screenshot. This stands even if you trust the person sending it to. It's about as safe as holding your credit card out in front of you while crossing the street. You may be a very trusting person but if you are too trusting, you are likely to get taken advantage of.
Q:
How do I create a screenshot?
A:
See Wikipedia's entry on screenshot for a how-to for your operating system (Mac, PC, or X-Windows):
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Screenshot
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