One of the challenges I’ve run into recently is finding a simple way to print worksheets and forms from a Kindle. I’ve wanted to create printable cheat sheets, checklists, and interview forms that you could download and use during your genealogy research. The problem was figuring out how to get those pages onto paper.
After some experimenting, I discovered that while Kindles don’t include a built-in print feature, they do allow you to take screenshots. Once you have a screenshot, printing is easy.
The good news is that most of the forms and worksheets I create are only one or two pages long, making screenshots a practical solution. Here’s how it works:
Step 1: Take a Screenshot
From a Kindle e-Ink Reader (Paperwhite, Colorsoft, Scribe, Oasis, and similar models)
Go to the page you want to print. Tap two opposite corners of the screen at the same time, such as the top left and bottom right corners.
The screen will briefly flash, confirming that the screenshot was taken.
From a Kindle Fire Tablet
Go to the page you want to print. Press the Power button and the Volume Down button at the same time.
The screen will briefly flash to confirm that the screenshot was captured.
From the Kindle App on a Computer, Tablet, or Phone
Most computers have a Print Screen key that copies the contents of your screen. You can then paste the image into Microsoft Paint, PowerPoint, Google Slides, or another program and print it from there.
Alternatively, on a computer you can use a screenshot utility such as Snipping Tool (included with Windows), SnagIt, or another screen-capture program.
Because every phone version is a little different, I can’t include all the various instructions here. However the easiest approach is often to search online for “how to take a screenshot on my” followed by your phone model.
Step 2: Retrieve and Print Your Screenshot
If you took the screenshot on a computer, tablet, or phone, simply locate the image file and print it using your normal printing process.
If you took the screenshot on a Kindle e-Ink reader, connect the Kindle to a computer using a USB cable. Open your file browser and locate your Kindle. Look for a folder named “screenshots.” Open the folder and you’ll find your screenshots listed by date and time. Locate the screenshot you want, then open or right-click the file and print it.
A Quick Note
This method works well for printing personal worksheets, forms, checklists, and other short documents. It should not be used to reproduce copyrighted books or large portions of published works.
Next Tuesday I’ll be sending out a set of genealogy interview forms and quick-reference sheets designed for summer family gatherings, reunions, barbecues, and other occasions when relatives are all in one place. Now you know how to download them! Watch this space next week for these new goodies!