Can't select the layer I want

[imsam67]

This is a new behavior I've noticed when I use Photoshop. It's possible this has something to do with my installation/settings.

As seen in the image below, I have three layers that I'm working with and I want to move the top one i.e. the text layer that reads 52 GB available. I select it and when I click anywhere on the image to move that layer, Photoshop shifts to Layer 1 on its own and starts moving Layer 1. I select the top text layer again and the moment I click on the image, Photoshop again selects Layer 1 on its own.

Interestingly though, I can use the arrow keys on my keyboard to move the layer. So I can't manipulate that layer on the image using my mouse.

Any idea what's causing this?

By the way, I subscribe to Creative Cloud so I have the latest version of Photoshop installed on my Windows 10 machine. I don't see any updates available and the version of Photoshop reads: Photoshop CC 19.1.3 Release

[chanaart · Accepted solution]

Check out if you have auto select layer on. If the the layer you want to move is next to another layer you might catch layer one instead...

disable auto select layer and target the layer you want to move.

Hope this helps!

[Jamie250502743xqx]

omg thank you I couldn't figure this out and thought my photoshop was broken. A simple fix that was driving me nuts! 

[Cindee273263313mx2]

Thank you so much for this post. OMG!!!! I was going nuts trying to figure this one out. Phew! easy fix for a non-problem:}

[Marta34905099wwd8]

I CAN'T FIND THIS - CAN SOMEONE TELL ME WHERE "AUTO SELECT LAYER" IS?

[Stephen Marsh]

@Marta34905099wwd8 

For now, it's been moved to the gear/cog icon on the upper right hand side of the screen.

[imsam67]

Thank you very much! That's exactly what it was. I'll have to read up on the purpose of Auto Select feature. In my usage, it was only a hindrance. I'm sure it's designed for a pretty useful purpose.

[GSK66]

I have a new question . . .When I arrow over a layer and select, the transform controls won't show unless I control - or + .  . .I've got the auto-select checked along with the Show Transform Controls.   Any ideas?