So you think creating a video recording of your Mac’s screen intimidates the heck out of you? Well, don’t worry! Apple already has all the tools in place to screen record on Mac with audio. And it couldn’t be easier to use–if you know how to take a screenshot on your Mac, then congratulations: You’re well on your way to being an expert at making quality recordings!

There are two ways to start recording: you can either use keyboard shortcuts or go through each menu option until you get there. I like using keyboard shortcuts because they’re quick and easy for me–I hope this article helps show how both options work.

Achieving your ideal screen recording can be tricky, but it doesn’t have to be with these easy steps! With the following changes, you’ll find yourself able to record like a pro in no time.

How to Screen Record on Mac with Audio using the Screenshot Toolbar

1. On your Mac, press Command + Shift + 5 simultaneously. You can also press Command + Shift, then with your other hand,  hit 5. When you do that, a toolbar with screenshot capabilities will appear on your screen!

How to Screen Record on Mac with Audio Using the entire screen with Screenshot Toolbar

1. Click the icon depicted below in the onscreen controls. You will notice that your pointer has turned into a camera icon.
2. If using multiple screens, click the screen you want to screen record.
3. To stop recording, hit the stop button located in the menu bar in the upper right corner.
4. Use the video’s thumbnail in the lower bottom corner and make adjustments to the video. 

Screen Record a selected portion of the screen 

1. Click the icon depicted below in the onscreen controls.
2. Adjust the area of the screen to record.
3. To stop recording, hit the stop button located in the menu bar in the upper right corner
4. Use the thumbnail of the video in the lower bottom corner and make adjustments to the video. 

Screen Record with QuickTime Player

The second way but more extended way to open the screenshot toolbar is via the QuickTime Player. You can open the QuickTime player by navigating to your Applications folder and double-clicking the QuickTime Player or pressing Command + Space and searching for QuickTime Player using the Spotlight tool. View more about QuickTime Player.

With QuickTime Player open, click on File in the menu followed by New Screen Recording.

Screen Record Settings

If you want to take a screenshot, then the first three icons on your Mac’s toolbar can help. You’ll find more information about them in this guide from our blog.

The Microphone option is what you’ll want to adjust if you plan to capture audio while recording your Mac screen. For example, let’s say you’re giving a work presentation and find it necessary to use an external microphone. In this scenario, this setting tells QuickTime Player which mic is used for recording purposes.

Okay, so you can make your cursor into a circle of rings when recording. This setting is excellent for presentations and teaching. This setting is under Options.

When you’re ready to record, click the Record button. A small stop sign-like icon will appear on the top-right side of your display. Click on that when you’re done recording and wait for just a few seconds before it’s processed into an editable clip with QuickTime automatically launching so you can save or export right away and share if desired.

Now, you know several ways to screen record on Mac with audio. If you found this article helpful, you might also find these Mac Adviser articles useful. 

• How to take a screenshot on Mac | 2021
• How to Change Siri’s Voice | iOS 14.5 | 2021
• How to Prevent Apps From Tracking You on iPhone | 2021
• How to Right-Click on a Mac with Magic Mouse | 2021
• How to Find the Serial Number on a MacBook
• 11 most useful Mac keyboard shortcuts | 2021
• How to Undo on Mac – Keyboard Shortcuts | 2021
• How to Type the Degree Symbol on Mac | 2021

If you have any helpful tips or tricks about screen recording on Mac, please drop a comment below!