Layer Groups

If you work with complex compositions involving many layers, the long list of layers in the Layers palette can become unwieldy. To simplify layer management, organize layers into groups (Figure 10.5). Layer groups are similar to the folders on your desktop; in fact, layer groups use folder icons.

Figure 10.5. Using layer groups, you can organize layers and move or hide multiple layers together.

To create a layer group, click the Create a New Group button in the Layers palette and drag layers into it, or select the layers you want to group and choose New Group from Layers from the Layers palette menu.

If you use layer masks and blending modes, it's good to know that you can apply a layer mask or blending mode to a layer group. It then applies to the entire group of layers.