Many times, it is useful to send a series of screenshots depicting the steps needed to recreate an issue to a helpdesk or computer support technician. Windows has a built-in tool called Problem Steps Recorder (PSR) starting from Windows 7 that makes this easier for users by taking a screenshot of every screen the user clicks on. This will make it easier for a user to describe an issue and help resolve the problem faster.
1. In order to start PSR, use the Run command, ("Win+R" keyboard shortcut) and type in "psr". Click on OK.
2. After clicking on OK, a new window will open called Steps Recorder.
When you click on Start Record, it will begin to record every keystroke you make and every click you make.
3. After capturing enough detail to describe the problem, click on Stop Record. A new window will pop up.
This window will show you all of the screenshots taken and all the details automatically recorded. Ensure that no private information has been captured in the screenshots. No electronically protected health information (EPHI) should be present in the captures. If any is visible, please re-record the steps, but take care to make sure no EPHI is visible. If EPHI must be transmitted, make sure that the file is given to the technician in person, or by encrypted email or file server storage.
4. After verifying the contents of the steps recording, click on Save.
Choose an easy to remember location, such as the Desktop to save the file. You will need to access the file again to send it to its destination. After clicking on Save, the screenshots and descriptions will be saved as a *.zip file.
5. Attach the zip file to a support ticket or give the file in person to the support entity. The support entity will then be able to assess the problem without requiring immediate access to the computer.