A clean selection makes local edits, background changes, and composites easier to manage. Photoshop offers manual tools for precise control, automatic options for speed, and mask adjustments for cleanup. Use the method that fits the edge: a polygonal outline for straight shapes, a quick selection for clear boundaries, or a refined mask for hair and fur.

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Quick Tips & Key Takeaways

Use these shortcuts and settings to spend less time rebuilding selections and more time refining the result.

  • Correct a polygon point: Press Backspace on Windows or Delete on Mac to remove the last point; press Escape to cancel the selection.
  • Switch lasso modes as you draw: Hold Alt or Option while using the Lasso Tool to temporarily use the Polygonal Lasso Tool.
  • Refine a quick selection: Turn on Sample All Layers when selecting across layers. Hold Alt or Option and paint to subtract unwanted areas.
  • Clean up a selection edge: Load the mask as a selection with Ctrl/Command-click on its thumbnail, then use Select > Modify > Contract to pull the edge inward.
  • Reduce color fringing: For hair or fur against a contrasting background, refine the mask in Select and Mask and adjust Decontaminate Colors when needed.
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