To invert the selection in GIMP, you use the Invert command.
Understanding Selection Inversion in GIMP
The "Invert" command in GIMP reverses the currently selected and unselected areas of a layer. Here's how it works, as explained in the reference:
The Invert command inverts the selection in the current layer. That means that all of the layer contents which were previously outside of the selection are now inside it, and vice versa. If there was no selection before, the command selects the entire layer. Do not confuse this command with the Invert colors command.
How to Invert a Selection
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Create a Selection: Start by using one of GIMP’s selection tools, such as the rectangle select tool, the ellipse select tool, or the free select tool, to create an area that you will then invert.
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Invert the Selection: To invert the selection, do one of the following:
- Go to Select > Invert from the main menu.
- Use the keyboard shortcut Ctrl + I (Windows/Linux) or Cmd + I (macOS).
What Happens When You Invert a Selection?
- Previously Selected Area Becomes Unselected: The area that was initially selected is now deselected.
- Previously Unselected Area Becomes Selected: The area that was not initially selected is now selected.
- No Initial Selection: If no selection was active before using the "Invert" command, then the command will select the entire layer.
Examples and Practical Insights
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Example 1: If you've selected a person in an image and want to edit the background instead, inverting the selection will make it easy to select all areas outside the person.
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Example 2: Suppose you have a complex shape selected, but you want to manipulate the area around it; inverting the selection is a fast and effective approach.
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Not Color Inversion: It's important not to confuse selection inversion with color inversion, which is a separate function that alters the colors in an image.
In Summary
| Action | Description |
|---|---|
| Invert Selection | Reverses the currently selected area of a layer, choosing what was not previously selected. |
| Menu Location | Select > Invert |
| Keyboard Shortcut | Ctrl + I (Windows/Linux) or Cmd + I (macOS) |
