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How to Hide Interface Elements in Photoshop (Options Bar and Panels)

Published in Photoshop Workspace Hiding 2 mins read

If you're looking to streamline your workspace in Photoshop and hide distracting interface elements like the options bar and panels, you can use a simple keyboard shortcut. Based on the provided reference, pressing the Tab key allows you to quickly toggle the visibility of these elements.

However, it's important to note that this method, as described, does not hide the main menu bar located at the very top of the application window, nor does it hide your document tabs.

Using the Tab Key to Hide Workspace Elements

Pressing the Tab key is the primary method mentioned in the reference for quickly hiding certain parts of the Photoshop interface. This is particularly useful when you want to maximize your document view and minimize distractions.

Here's what happens when you press the Tab key in Photoshop:

  • What Gets Hidden:

    • The options bar located at the top of the window (below the menu bar).
    • All panels docked or open along the right side (or wherever you have them placed).
  • What Remains Visible:

    • The main menu bar at the very top (containing File, Edit, Image, Layer, etc.).
    • Your document tabs.

Think of it as a quick way to get a clean view of your artwork without completely disappearing the application's core navigation (the menu bar).

Quick Toggle

  • Pressing Tab once hides the options bar and panels.
  • Pressing Tab again brings them back into view.
Interface Element Hidden by Tab Key? (According to Reference)
Options Bar Yes
Panels Yes
Main Menu Bar No
Document Tabs No

By using the Tab key, you can efficiently toggle key interface elements on and off, helping you focus on your design work. While it doesn't hide all menus, it effectively clears a significant portion of the workspace as described in the referenced information.

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