Mask Brush Not Erasing Properly

[evie333]

When I use the brush tool in mask, it doesn't erase everything. And even at some points adds some of the image back in. I've looked up how to reset my brush but I don't see a setting option available in the brush settings and pressing shift + option +n hasn't worked either. I'm not sure what to do. In my image, you can see the words I'm trying to erase.

Please give me really simple and clear instructions. I am not very good at Photoshop. Thanks in advance!

[davescm]

Make sure your brush is set to 100% opacity and 100% flow. Also make sure the colour you are using is full black i.e. RGB 0,0,0. Sometimes it may look black but is actually just a very dark grey which on a mask will allow some of the image to show.

Dave

[c.pfaffenbichler]

Additionally could you please post screenshots with the pertinent Panels (Toolbar, Layers, Options Bar, Channels, …) visible? 

[Trevor.Dennis]

I usually do what Dave suggests, as well as turn off all settings in Brus Settings, and use a fully hard brush.  Even then, I am more inclined to use the Lasso tool with the Opt key to link points, and use Opt backspace (is that a Mac thing?) to fill with black.  Especially in tight corners.

If this looks too stark/abrupt (not sure how best to describe it), then set a tiny feather in the options bar — but don't forget to turn it off when you are done.  We have all been bitten on the bum getting caught out with a forgotten feather.  Goodness, that sounds bad!