How to Get WYSIWYP (Print What You See) in a Web Browser

How to Get WYSIWYP (Print What You See) in a Web Browser

In today's digital age, printing what you see on a web browser can be quite a challenge. Oftentimes, the printed version of a webpage looks different from what you saw on your screen. Text can be cut off, images may be distorted, and the overall formatting can be a mess. However, there is a solution to this problem - WYSIWYP, which stands for "What You See Is What You Print." In this article, we will explore how to achieve WYSIWYP in a web browser, particularly in Google Chrome.

Google Chrome, being one of the most popular web browsers, offers a built-in feature for achieving WYSIWYP. However, finding this feature may not be obvious to every user. To access it, you need to open the Developer Tools in Chrome. On Windows, you can do this by pressing F12 or Ctrl+Shift+I. On Mac, use the shortcut Cmd+Opt+I. Once the Developer Tools are open, click on the "Customize and control DevTools" hamburger menu button. From there, choose "More tools" and then "Rendering settings" (or simply "Rendering" in newer versions).

In the Rendering tab of the Developer Tools, you will find a checkbox labeled "Emulate print media." Check this box and make sure that the "Screen" media type is selected. By doing this, you are instructing Chrome to emulate the print media when rendering the webpage. This means that what you see on your screen will be exactly what you get when you print. Remember to keep the Developer Tools open until you have finished printing. Once you close the Developer Tools, the Rendering settings will be reset back to normal.

It is worth noting that the inspiration for this answer came from a post on Super User (https://superuser.com/a/568847/176146). However, the actual instructions provided in this article are slightly different. While the original answer aimed to set the override to "Print" in order to achieve a different effect, we are focusing on setting it to "Screen" to achieve WYSIWYP. This subtle difference in approach highlights the versatility of the Developer Tools in Chrome.

Now that you know how to achieve WYSIWYP in Chrome, let's discuss why this feature is important. When you need to print a webpage for reference or documentation purposes, it is crucial that the printed version accurately reflects what you saw on your screen. This is especially important for businesses, academic institutions, and individuals who rely on printed materials for various purposes. Inaccurate printing can lead to confusion, errors, and a waste of time and resources.

To ensure a successful WYSIWYP experience, here are three actionable pieces of advice:

1. Use the right browser: While Chrome offers a built-in solution for WYSIWYP, other browsers may have different methods or lack this feature altogether. If achieving accurate printing is essential for your workflow, consider using Chrome or explore other browsers to find suitable alternatives.

2. Familiarize yourself with the Developer Tools: The Developer Tools in Chrome are a powerful resource for web developers, but they can also be useful for non-technical users. Take the time to explore the various features and settings available, as they can greatly enhance your browsing and printing experiences.

3. Keep the Developer Tools open until you print: As mentioned earlier, it is important to keep the Developer Tools open until you have finished printing. Closing the Developer Tools prematurely will reset the Rendering settings and may result in inaccurate printing. Make it a habit to double-check before printing to ensure WYSIWYP.

In conclusion, achieving WYSIWYP in a web browser, particularly in Google Chrome, is possible by utilizing the built-in features of the Developer Tools. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can ensure that the printed version of a webpage accurately reflects what you see on your screen. Remember to use the right browser, familiarize yourself with the Developer Tools, and keep them open until you print. With these tips in mind, you can confidently print webpages with ease and accuracy.