You can duplicate a layer in GIMP by navigating to Image → Duplicate in the image menubar, or by using the keyboard shortcut Ctrl+D.
Here's a more detailed explanation:
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Using the Menu:
- Open your image in GIMP.
- Look for the "Image" option in the menu bar at the top of the GIMP window.
- Click on "Image".
- Select "Duplicate" from the dropdown menu. A new window will open containing an exact copy of your original image.
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Using the Keyboard Shortcut:
- Open your image in GIMP.
- Press and hold the "Ctrl" key (or the "Command" key on macOS).
- Press the "D" key while still holding down the "Ctrl" (or "Command") key.
- Release both keys. A duplicate image window will immediately open.
This duplication creates a completely independent copy of your image. Any changes you make to the original will not affect the duplicate, and vice-versa. This is extremely useful for experimenting with different edits without risking your original work.