If Command + Shift + 4 suddenly stops taking screenshots on your Mac, you’re not alone. This handy shortcut is a go-to for grabbing custom screen captures, so when it breaks, it’s frustrating. But don’t worry—you’ve got options. Here’s how to get that shortcut working again fast.
1. Restore Default Screenshot Shortcuts
Custom key settings or accidental changes can break screenshot shortcuts.
- Go to System Settings (or System Preferences on older macOS).
- Select Keyboard > Keyboard Shortcuts (or just Shortcuts tab).
- Click Screenshots on the sidebar.
- Make sure Save picture of selected area as a file is set to Command + Shift + 4.
- If something seems off, hit Restore Defaults.
Try the shortcut again. If it still doesn’t work, keep going.
2. Change Keyboard Language to English
Some keyboard layouts (like AZERTY or non-English input sources) can mess with shortcut keys.
- Open System Settings > Keyboard > Input Sources.
- Make sure English is at the top of the list.
- If it’s not, add it and drag it to the top.
- Optionally, remove other language layouts for testing.
Now retry Command + Shift + 4.
3. Look for Conflicting Apps or Services
Some third-party apps—like screen recorders, hotkey managers, or security tools—can hijack keyboard shortcuts.
- Check apps like CleanMyMac, Parallels, Dropbox, or Snagit.
- Open their preferences and look for any custom shortcuts that might be using Command + Shift + 4.
- If found, disable or change them to free up the combo.
Then test if your Mac’s screenshot tool works again.
4. Reset NVRAM (Intel Macs Only)
NVRAM stores settings like screen resolution, sound volume—and sometimes, glitchy behaviors.
- Shut down your Mac completely.
- Turn it on and immediately press Command + Option + P + R.
- Hold the keys for about 20 seconds or until your Mac restarts again.
On Apple Silicon (M1/M2) Macs, simply restart and let it sit on the startup screen for 30 seconds—NVRAM resets automatically.
5. Update macOS
Bugs in macOS can interfere with keyboard shortcuts, especially after an update or upgrade.
- Go to System Settings > General > Software Update.
- Install any available updates.
- After updating, test the shortcut again.
6. Clean Up Disk Space
If your Mac is running out of storage, even simple system functions can stop working correctly.
- Open System Settings > General > Storage.
- Free up at least 20GB of space by deleting old files, apps, or large screenshots.
- Restart your Mac and try the shortcut again.
7. Reinstall macOS (Last Resort)
If nothing else works, a fresh macOS install can clear out deep system glitches.
⚠️ Make sure to back up your data with Time Machine or iCloud before reinstalling.
- Restart your Mac and boot into macOS Recovery:
- Intel Macs: Hold Command + R during startup.
- Apple Silicon Macs: Hold the Power button until “Loading startup options” appears.
- Select Reinstall macOS and follow the prompts.
Once reinstalled, test the screenshot shortcut on a fresh user account.