Member Avatar for Reliable

Hey everyone,

When I open Photoshop CS3 it opens with the selection tool activated. I'd like it to make the move tool my default tool. (It is the most frequently used tool in the toolbar). how do I make it open with that already activated?

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  • Latest Post Latest Post by gogoejoe

Dani AI

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A practical way to force Photoshop CS3 to start with the Move tool active (without changing a preference that doesn’t exist) is to create a tiny Action that selects the Move tool and have Photoshop run that Action automatically when a document is opened. This avoids repeatedly switching tools and gives immediate control as soon as a file is created or opened.

Steps to set this up:

  1. Open the Actions panel (Window > Actions). Create a new Action, name it (e.g., "Select Move"), and click Record.
  2. While recording, click the Move tool in the Tools panel, then stop the Action (the square Stop button).
  3. Go to File > Scripts > Script Events Manager. Check "Enable Events to Run Scripts/Actions".
  4. Choose the event "Open Document" (and add "New Document" too if desired), pick the Action you recorded, click Add, then Done.

Troubleshooting and notes:

  • Keep the Action minimal (only the tool selection) so it runs quickly and predictably. If you accidentally recorded other steps, re-record the action.
  • The Script Events approach runs when a document is opened or created; if Photoshop starts with no document open, the selection won’t change until you open/create one.
  • To undo this, reopen Script Events Manager and remove the event binding.
  • If the action doesn’t trigger, confirm Script Events are enabled and the Action is saved in the Actions panel (not a temporary set).

This approach builds on the thread discussion from , and by offering a small, persistent workaround that doesn’t require a hidden preference or manual switching every time.

Recommended Answers

All 6 Replies

Member Avatar for HI2Japan

I thought Photoshop opens with the last tool you used.

Member Avatar for Reliable

I thought Photoshop opens with the last tool you used.

I dunno. I'l try that and see. If so, I'll have to just close out with the move tool I guess.

Member Avatar for Member #334542

There is no option for your query in preferences. You can use v (shortcut key) to your frequent selection.

Member Avatar for kaninelupus

As has been pointed out, it is indeed opened with last tool utilised.

Member Avatar for akai10

I think the problem is already solved..just wanted to know have you tried it since..is it working accordingly

Member Avatar for gogoejoe

Hi Reliable,
Here David from USA. Here you have inquired about the photoshop page.
If you are working on one page then you can use other option for open other page .
Actually i am not master of photoshop . however you can try as this way.
Thanks for that have a nice day.

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