Need a way to prevent automatic tool switching. Specifically, Artboard tool.

Forum|Forum|4 months ago
January 13, 2026
4 replies
205 views

I can't tell you how frustrating it is when you're working with a lot of artboards and you switch from one to another and the move tool constantly switches to artboard tool. Is there a way to prevent this behavior?

All settings people suggest on internet do not solve this.

- Deleting the shortcut doesn't do it.

- Checking "Use Shift key for tool switch" doesn't do it

- Unchecking "Spring-loaded tool shortcuts" does not do it.

Why would Adobe think that once I select an artboard, I want to have the tool selected? Why?? Adobe Why?!?!?

Hope you can see my frustration.

There probably should be a setting somewhere where tools don't auto switch on you.

Also.. give us the ability to dock the "contextual task bar" that thing is [cursing removed] annoying floating around, or always being in the wrong place.

Rant off.

Windows

ShemlockAuthor

Participating Frequently

I've been doing that, but I work with a lot of artboards, and it's really painful to constantly have to switch the tool back to navigate the artboards.

MassC

Legend

Thank you, everyone, for your feedback and added workarounds. Please do not forget to add your vote to this idea and to share it with others who may benefit from this request.

^CM

A

Anonymous

Just click Shift+V...

ShemlockAuthor

Participating Frequently

I'm sorry mate but you're not providing any solutions here...

Unless there's a way to lock an artboard that I'm not familar with? Even then.. I move my artboards around, elements etc.

I just want the damn tool/s not to switch around depending on context. ( A simple checkbox to not switch tools would be AMAZING!)

Here's a sample GIF of me what I assume you mean by locking the artboard. It's still switching the tool.

Animation.gif

Also, "Again, I don't have this issue" - What's that got to do with me? I'm having an issue? I'm wondering if other users find that "non-issue" annoying. Are you trying to protect something/someone here? not sure why if it's not an issue for you, it's not an issue for me?

I don't want to hide the "Contetual Text Bar" as the tools on it are scattered around on UI/Menus otherwise. Ability to dock it would fix that issue. Again, I'm sorry but you're not offering any solution here. Why are you against improvements? Or seemingly so?

Thanks.