When to use Ctrl+Alt+Shift+E

[michaelr84234361]

I have used PS for a number of years for relatively simple things.

And have read lots of tutorials about layers - imagine that you are looking through glass etc. and the idea is sometimes helpful but sometimes not.

Recently I came across Ctrl+Alt+Shift+E and have been using it a lot and maybe too much or more than is necessary.

When should I use or not use Ctrl+Alt+Shift+E

Thanks,

Michael

[Peru Bob · Accepted solution]

Use it when you want to have a flattened layer, but wish to keep the original layers.

I always use it in place of flattening and make only that new layer visible.  It makes the file more complicated, but changes can be made more easily than if you just flattened it.