Exiting full screen mode in Photoshop CS5 is a cinch! All you need to do is press the "F" key on your keyboard once or twice until you see the Photoshop interface return to its standard layout. If you’re working on a project and suddenly find yourself in full screen mode, don’t panic – just follow these simple steps.
Step by Step Tutorial: How to Exit Full Screen Mode in Photoshop CS5
Before diving into the steps, it’s important to understand that Photoshop CS5 has three different screen modes: Standard Screen Mode, Full Screen Mode with Menu Bar, and Full Screen Mode. The following steps will help you navigate out of the full screen modes and back to the standard screen mode.
Step 1: Press the "F" key
Press the "F" key on your keyboard once.
If you’re in Full Screen Mode, pressing the "F" key once will take you to Full Screen Mode with Menu Bar. This mode still occupies the entire screen, but the menu bar at the top of the screen will be visible.
Step 2: Press the "F" key again
Press the "F" key on your keyboard once more.
After pressing the "F" key the second time, Photoshop CS5 will return to Standard Screen Mode. This mode displays the Photoshop interface within a window, allowing you to see your computer’s desktop and other applications.
Once you’ve completed these steps, you’ll be back to the familiar interface of Photoshop CS5, ready to continue working on your project with all the tools and panels at your disposal.
Tips: Exiting Full Screen Mode in Photoshop CS5
- Keep in mind that you can cycle through the screen modes by repeatedly pressing the "F" key.
- If you’re working on a Mac, make sure you’re not in a text field when you press the "F" key or it won’t work.
- Remember that you can also exit full screen mode by going to the "View" menu and selecting "Screen Mode," then choosing "Standard Screen Mode."
- If you’re using a dual monitor setup, full screen mode may behave differently, so be aware of your specific configuration.
- Keyboard shortcuts are a great way to speed up your workflow, so memorizing the "F" key for screen mode changes can be very helpful.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I exit full screen mode using the menu instead of a keyboard shortcut?
Yes, you can go to the "View" menu, hover over "Screen Mode," and select "Standard Screen Mode" to exit full screen mode.
What if pressing the "F" key doesn’t work?
Make sure you’re not currently typing in a text field within Photoshop. If you are, click away from the text field and try pressing the "F" key again.
Can I customize the keyboard shortcut for exiting full screen mode?
Yes, you can customize keyboard shortcuts by going to "Edit" > "Keyboard Shortcuts" and modifying the shortcut for switching screen modes.
How do I know which screen mode I’m currently in?
Full Screen Mode occupies the entire screen and hides the menu bar, while Full Screen Mode with Menu Bar shows the menu bar at the top of the screen. Standard Screen Mode displays the Photoshop workspace within a window.
Can I use full screen mode on one monitor while using another application on a second monitor?
Yes, if you have a dual monitor setup, you can use Photoshop in full screen mode on one monitor and have other applications open on your second monitor.
Summary
- Press the "F" key once to switch to Full Screen Mode with Menu Bar.
- Press the "F" key again to return to Standard Screen Mode.
Conclusion
Now that you’ve mastered the art of exiting full screen mode in Photoshop CS5, your workflow can be more versatile and efficient. Whether you prefer working with a clear, distraction-free canvas or you like having access to your desktop and other applications, knowing how to toggle between screen modes is a valuable skill. Remember, Photoshop is a powerful tool, and understanding its features and shortcuts is key to unleashing your creative potential. So go ahead, experiment with different screen modes and find the one that suits your working style the best. And if you ever find yourself lost in full screen mode again, just hit that "F" key and you’ll be back on familiar ground in no time. Happy editing!