To select similar colors throughout the image with the Magic Want tool (as opposed to being restricted to those similar pixels that are touching) uncheck the "Contiguous" option in the Options bar.

Also, while using the Magic Wand tool, tapping the return/enter key will automatically highlight the Tolerance option for the tool in the Options bar and allow you to enter a numeric value.

Posted by Julieanne Kost at 6:41 AM | Permalink

Both the Quick Selection and Magic Wand tools make selections based on the color sampled. When using the Quick Selection tool, checking Auto-Enhance can help reduce rough edges of the selection in transitional areas. For more control after making a selection, (when using either Quick Selection or the Magic Wand tool), select Refine Edge from the Options bar and use the dialog box to further fine tune your selection.

Both tools will also sample similar colors on multiple layers - simply check the "Sample All Layers" feature in the Options bar.

Posted by Julieanne Kost at 6:39 AM | Permalink

• Holding the Option (Mac) / Alt (Win) key while dragging with the Marquee tools creates a selection from the center.
• Holding the Shift key will constrain the Marquee to a square or circle.
• After starting to draw a selection, holding the spacebar (while still holding the mouse down) allows the repositioning of the origin of the selection. Releasing the spacebar (while still holding the mouse down) allows continuation of drawing of the selection.

Posted by Julieanne Kost at 6:57 AM | Permalink