GMetrix Photoshop: Layers and Selections Flashcards

Which layer blending mode makes black pixels invisible and brightens the layer below based on the blend layer's luminosity?

Answer: Screen

Screen mode inverts both layers, multiplies them, and inverts again — making black transparent and progressively brightening toward white.

What happens when you Alt-click (Option-click on Mac) on the eye icon of a layer in the Layers panel?

Answer: It toggles visibility of all other layers

Alt/Option-clicking the eye icon hides all other layers and shows only the clicked layer (or restores all if already in solo mode).

Which command converts a regular layer into a Smart Object?

Answer: Layer > Convert to Smart Object

Layer > Convert to Smart Object encapsulates the layer contents, preserving originals and enabling non-destructive Smart Filters.

When using the Rectangular Marquee tool, holding which key constrains the selection to a perfect square?

Answer: Shift

Holding Shift while dragging with the Rectangular Marquee constrains proportions to a 1:1 ratio, creating a square selection.

What does the 'Merge Visible' command do compared to 'Flatten Image'?

Answer: Merge Visible keeps hidden layers intact; Flatten Image discards them

Merge Visible (Shift+Ctrl+E) merges only visible layers into the lowest visible layer, leaving hidden layers untouched; Flatten Image merges everything and discards hidden layers.

Which selection method is best for isolating an irregularly shaped object against a high-contrast background?

Answer: Quick Selection tool

The Quick Selection tool intelligently finds and follows edges, making it ideal for irregular shapes against contrasting backgrounds.

In the Layer Style dialog, which option adds a shadow that appears inside the layer's content boundary?

Answer: Inner Shadow

Inner Shadow creates a shadow effect within the layer's edges, giving the appearance of depth or a recessed look.