How do I add a layer to a drawing in Photoshop?

To add a layer in Photoshop, you typically create an empty layer on top of your existing layers. This allows you to add new elements without directly altering what's already there.

Here's how:

1. Locate the Layers Panel: The Layers panel is usually found on the right side of the Photoshop interface. If you don't see it, go to Window > Layers in the top menu.
2. Create a New Layer:
   • Click the "Create a New Layer" button: This button looks like a square with a plus (+) sign inside. It's located at the bottom of the Layers panel.
   • Or, use the keyboard shortcut: Press Ctrl+Shift+N (Windows) or Cmd+Shift+N (Mac). This will bring up a dialog box where you can name the new layer and set options (like color mode and opacity). You can simply press "OK" to create a default new layer.
   • Or, go to the top menu: Click on Layer > New > Layer. This also brings up the "New Layer" dialog box.
3. Verify Layer Placement: The new layer is created above the currently selected layer in the Layers panel. Ensure it is where you want it. If not, drag and drop the layers in the Layers panel to reorder them.
4. Start Drawing/Painting: With the new layer selected (it will be highlighted), you can now use any of Photoshop's drawing or painting tools on that layer. Since it's a separate layer, anything you create will be independent of the other layers.

Example Scenario:

Let's say you have a background layer and want to sketch on top of it. You would:

1. Create the new layer using one of the methods above.
2. Select a brush tool.
3. Begin sketching on the newly created layer. Your sketch will be on top of the background, and you can easily edit or delete the sketch without affecting the background.