(If you’re substituting white for another color, just accept the default setting for the New Color option.)

Use the eyedropper tool to gather a sample of the old color and the new color.In the Preview window, go to Colors | Color Substitution.Here’s how color substitution works in SnagIt: SnagIt’s Color Substitution tool, shown in Figure E, came to the rescue. Unfortunately, the color scheme of the data entry screens was such that the forms were difficult to read, whether the documents were printed on monochrome or color printers. So they used SnagIt to capture the application’s data entry screens. A software company wanted to create a paper form on which end users can handwrite information before they sit down to enter records into the computer. I’ll close with a tip that made me the hero with a client. The eyedropper tools make it easy to select the colors you want to change or swap. Here are some of my cardinal rules of using SnagIt. I’ve noticed a recurring theme when supporting coworkers and clients who are using SnagIt for the first time: They don’t fully understand how to take advantage of the timesaving options. In “Create figures for your training materials with SnagIt,” I called version 4 of the program “a dream come true for technical writers.” Version 5.2.1, released in summer 2001, is the best version yet. Instead, find a screen-capture program that you like, and get in the habit of using it every time you create or update documentation.įor my writing and training jobs, I rely on SnagIt, from TechSmith Corporation. The and methods of capturing screen shots are acceptable for one-shot deals, but you shouldn’t use those methods for every screen shot in your document. This week, I’d like to share a couple of the tricks I use routinely as a technical writer and trainer. End users love pictures, and the correct screen shots make the difference between useful, effective training materials and documents that aren’t read. When you’re writing technical documentation for end users, borrow a trick from authors who write children’s books: Use as many pictures as possible.įor technical writing, I’m talking about screen shots, of course. Learn valuable tips and tricks to using SnagIt. How to use SnagIt to grab good screen shots

Tech snagit 13