The shortcut key to duplicate a layer in Photoshop is Ctrl + J on Windows and Command + J on Mac.
Duplicating layers is a fundamental task in Adobe Photoshop, allowing you to create copies of existing layers quickly. This is essential for non-destructive editing, testing different effects, or combining elements. The primary shortcut for this action depends on your operating system.
Photoshop Duplicate Layer Shortcut Keys
Based on standard Photoshop shortcuts, including information from the provided reference, the keys you need to press are:
- For Windows users: Press Ctrl + J.
- For Mac users: Press Command + J.
To use this shortcut effectively, you must first have the desired layer selected in the Layers panel. Once the layer is highlighted, simply press the corresponding shortcut keys. Photoshop will immediately create a duplicate of that layer directly above the original in the Layers panel.
Shortcut Key Summary
Here's a quick reference table for clarity:
| Operating System | Shortcut Key |
|---|---|
| Windows | Ctrl + J |
| Mac | Command + J |
This shortcut provides a much faster way to duplicate a layer compared to using the menu (Layer > Duplicate Layer...) or dragging the layer to the "Create New Layer" icon at the bottom of the Layers panel.
How to Use the Duplicate Layer Shortcut
- Select the Layer: Open your Photoshop document and locate the Layers panel. Click on the layer you wish to duplicate to select it.
- Press the Shortcut: While the layer is selected, press Ctrl + J (Windows) or Command + J (Mac) on your keyboard.
- New Layer Created: A new layer will appear directly above the original layer in the Layers panel, named "[Original Layer Name] copy".
Practical Uses
- Non-Destructive Editing: Duplicate a layer before applying filters or adjustments so you can easily revert or compare.
- Creating Backups: Quickly make a copy of an important layer before making significant changes.
- Arrangement: Duplicate elements to position multiple copies around your canvas.
Bonus Tip: Duplicating Selections
Interestingly, the Ctrl + J / Command + J shortcut also serves another powerful purpose: it can duplicate a selection on your active layer into a new layer. If you have an active selection on your canvas and press the shortcut, only the pixels within that selection on the currently active layer will be copied and placed onto a brand new layer above it.
Using the Ctrl + J or Command + J shortcut is an essential time-saver for any Photoshop user, streamlining your workflow when managing layers.
