How to Duplicate a Layer in Photoshop (4 Quick Methods)
Duplicating layers is a core Photoshop skill and there are several fast ways to do it. This quick guide walks through four methods so you can pick the one that fits your workflow: drag-copy while moving, Layer menu, panel/right‑click, and an instant shortcut or button.
Step-by-step instructions
Drag-copy while moving with the Move Tool
Select the Move Tool (V)
Hold Option to show the double-arrow cursor
Click and drag the layer’s content to create and move a duplicate
Release the mouse to place the copy
Rename the new layer in the Layers panel if desired
Use the Layer menu
Select the layer to duplicate in the Layers panel
Layer → Duplicate Layer…
Enter a new Name (optional)
Choose a Document destination (current file or another open document)
Click OK (duplicate appears above the original)
Right‑click or panel menu duplicate
Right‑click the target layer in the Layers panel → Duplicate Layer…
Or click the Layers panel menu (≡) → Duplicate Layer…
Name the layer and choose a destination in the dialog
Click OK
Verify the new layer appears above the original
Instant duplicate without a dialog
Drag the layer onto the Create New Layer icon at the bottom of the Layers panel
Or press Cmd+J to duplicate immediately
A copy appears directly above the original
Start editing or moving the duplicate as needed
Rename for clarity if desired
