How to Unlock Layers in Photoshop CS6?

Unlocking layers in Photoshop CS6 is straightforward. Here's how:

Steps to Unlock a Layer

Locate the Layers Panel: The Layers panel is usually found on the right side of your Photoshop window. If it's not visible, go to Window > Layers to open it.
Identify the Locked Layer: A locked layer will have a small lock icon to the right of its name in the Layers panel.
Click the Lock Icon: Simply click on the lock icon to unlock the layer. The lock icon will disappear, and the layer will now be editable.
- If the lock icon is present (indicating a fully or partially locked layer), clicking it will unlock the layer.

Conversely, to lock a layer, select it and click on the empty space, where the lock icon was, above the stack of layers in the Layers panel. A lock icon will appear, indicating the layer is locked.

Full Lock: A padlock icon indicates that the layer is completely locked, preventing any edits or movements. This is the type of lock that is unlocked by clicking the icon.
Partial Locks:
- Lock Transparency: A checkerboard icon allows editing within existing pixel areas but prevents adding new pixels outside them.
- Lock Image Pixels: A paintbrush icon prevents any pixel modification but allows movement.
- Lock Position: An arrow icon disables movement but allows image modification.

Quick Unlocking: Double-clicking the lock icon can sometimes also unlock a layer.
Layer Organization: Locking layers is a great way to prevent accidental edits of finished parts of your project.
Creative Workflows: Combining different lock modes offers control and flexibility when compositing and retouching images.

By following these simple steps, you can effectively manage layer locks in Photoshop CS6.