Photoshop CS4:
Changing Some Default Preferences
Cheat Sheet 20081210

GENERAL:

Photoshop - Preferences - General (or just use ⌘K)

Note: Dialog boxes in Photoshop CS4 are non-modal, meaning they do not take over your screen when activated. So, they allow you to use the tools and windows you have open in the background while they’re open.

TURN OFF the following:
Export Clipboard
Use Shift Key for Tool Switch (You can use their designated shortcut keys for that. BUT - if you don't want to continually toggle between individual Tool choices, e.g. eraser/background eraser/magic eraser - leave this ON.)
Zoom Resizes Windows (If you like the resizing, leave it on.)

INTERFACE:

SET the following:
Standard Screen Mode: Gray - Drop Shadow (If you don't like a drop shadow, set it to None.)
Full Screen with Menus: Gray - None
Full Screen: Black - None

TURN ON:
Auto-Collapse Iconic Panels (so the panels/palettes get out of your way while working)

If you don’t like having Tool Tips appearing all the time while working, turn off Show Tool Tips.

If you are used to having your documents as free-floating windows, turn off Open Documents as Tabs.

FILE HANDLING:

If you are working at home, turn OFF Enable Version Cue to save file processing.

SET Maximize PSD and PSB File Compatibility to Never (Doing this will keep an extra flattened copy of the same file in Photoshop from being saved on your hard drive and eating up extra disk space. If you use Adobe Premiere or Adobe Lightroom on a regular basis, then set it to Ask or Always.)

PERFORMANCE:

Scratch Disks: If you have more than one drive, Enable your larger scratch disk and put it above your system/boot drive by highlighting it and using the Arrow Keys.

GPU Settings: If this option is grayed out you need to update your video driver or get a better/faster video card.

UNITS & RULERS:

If you are a web designer, set Rulers and Type to pixels.

Any questions?

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