Member Avatar for ceyesuma

Hello.
Could someone tell me why I open photoshop and the only tool available it the hand tool?
I have no way to select anything.
Thanks.
-Steve

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Troubleshooting checklist (builds on tips from and ):

  • Make sure a pixel document is actually open. Many tools are inactive when no image or only a path/vector is selected.
  • Show the Tools panel (Window > Tools). If the toolbar was customized or collapsed, use Edit > Toolbar (Photoshop CC) or the Tools panel flyout to restore defaults.
  • Reset the tools themselves: use the Tools-panel or Options-bar flyout and choose "Reset Tool" or "Reset All Tools".
  • Check Image > Mode. Images in Indexed Color or Bitmap mode disable many editing tools. Convert to RGB Color for normal editing.
  • Inspect Layers/Paths/Masks. Ensure a normal pixel layer is active (not a path, vector/text-only layer, mask, or locked background). Exit Quick Mask if it is on.
  • Reveal nested tools by click-and-hold (or right-click) a tool icon — some selection tools share a slot.
  • Check input devices. The Spacebar (or a mapped tablet/stylus button) temporarily invokes the Hand tool; a stuck key or mapped express key can make Hand appear to be the only tool. Test with the tablet unplugged or another keyboard.
  • Reset the workspace (Window > Workspace > Reset [your workspace]) to restore default layout without reinstalling.

If these steps fail, reset preferences (as suggested) and use reinstall only as a last resort (as noted). Back up custom brushes, actions, and workspaces before resetting or reinstalling. For targeted help, include Photoshop version, operating system, and whether a tablet or third-party plug-ins are in use.

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Member Avatar for HI2Japan

Not really sure why, but you can try to reset your preferences.

Hold Alt + Ctrl + Shift when you open Photoshop.

Member Avatar for Jen0608

i dont know either.. but if it comes to worst.. try re-installing your photoshop...

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