Screen is black, flickering or broken
A black or flickering screen is worrying, but often the computer is fine and the screen just needs a nudge, a cable check or a restart.
Be careful: If the screen is cracked, don't press on it or use it with sharp glass showing. If you see smoke or smell burning, unplug it and get in-person help.
What to do
Step 1: Press the brightness up key a few times, as the screen may just be turned all the way down.
Step 2: Press Windows key + Ctrl + Shift + B together. You'll hear a beep and the screen will reset.
Step 3: If it's a desktop, check the monitor is switched on and both ends of the screen cable are pushed in firmly. If the monitor says No signal, use the monitor's buttons to choose the right input (like HDMI).
Step 4: Press Windows key + P and choose PC screen only, in case it's sending the picture to another screen.
Step 5: Restart the computer. If the screen is black, hold the power button for 10 seconds, then turn it on again.
Step 6: For flickering, install updates in Settings, then Windows Update, as they include display fixes.
Step 7: If the screen is cracked or has leaking color, you can plug in a TV or monitor to keep using it until it's repaired.
Still stuck? If the screen stays black or broken, take it to the maker's support or a trusted repair shop, as screens can usually be replaced.