Fix Command + Option + G Not Working in Photoshop on Mac

Many Mac users who work extensively with Adobe Photoshop rely on keyboard shortcuts to dramatically speed up their workflow. One such essential shortcut is Command + Option + G, a combination that creates a clipping mask — a crucial function for designers and photographers working with layered content. However, some users find that this shortcut suddenly stops working, leading to confusion and frustration during editing sessions.

This issue can stem from a variety of causes, ranging from system conflicts to Photoshop configuration errors. Fortunately, understanding what’s causing the problem is the first step toward resolving it. In this article, we’ll explore common reasons why Command + Option + G stops functioning in Photoshop on a Mac and detail step-by-step solutions to restore this critical shortcut.

Common Causes Behind the Shortcut Failure

There are several underlying issues that might prevent Command + Option + G from working properly in Photoshop:

• Keyboard shortcut conflicts with macOS or other applications
• Corrupted Photoshop preferences or settings
• Outdated or bugged versions of Photoshop
• Inactive layer selection or layer group incompatibility
• Input device issues or faulty keyboard mappings

Identifying the right cause involves a bit of trial and error, but once it’s narrowed down, fixing the problem is usually straightforward.

1. Verify Layer Selection and Compatibility

Before diving into system-level diagnostics, users should confirm that they are using the shortcut in a context where it can actually work. The Command + Option + G shortcut only functions if the selected layer is directly above another visible layer, which it can be clipped to.

For example, trying to create a clipping mask with a locked background layer or an adjustment layer that cannot be clipped might result in no action at all. Make sure the active layer and the layer below are both eligible for the operation.

Steps:

1. Select the top layer that you want to clip.
2. Ensure the layer immediately below is not locked or hidden.
3. Then press Command + Option + G.

2. Check for macOS Shortcut Conflicts

MacOS uses many of its own global shortcuts, and sometimes these can overlap with application-specific ones. To rule out a conflict:

• Open System Settings and go to Keyboard.
• Click Keyboard Shortcuts and explore categories like Mission Control, Spotlight, and App Shortcuts.
• Disable any system shortcuts that use the same key combo or reassign them.

Conflicting shortcuts for macOS functionalities like launching Spotlight or managing app windows are among the most common culprits. Eliminating these will help free the keyboard combo for exclusive use by Photoshop.

3. Reassign the Shortcut Within Photoshop

Photoshop allows users to customize its keyboard shortcuts. If the shortcut has been accidentally removed or changed, it won’t work until it’s restored. Here’s how to check or reassign it:

1. In Photoshop, go to Edit > Keyboard Shortcuts.
2. In the Keyboard Shortcuts window, select Panel Menus.
3. Scroll down to find Layer > Create Clipping Mask.
4. If the shortcut field is blank or contains a different combo, click it and press Command + Option + G to reassign.

Click Accept and then OK to exit the dialog and test the shortcut again.

4. Reset Photoshop Preferences

If the shortcut still doesn’t work after verifying layer compatibility and shortcut configurations, there may be a problem with corrupted Photoshop preferences. Resetting Photoshop preferences can solve deeper internal errors that prevent expected functions from executing.

Note: This action will revert all settings to default, including custom brushes and workspace layouts, so be sure to back up preferences if desired.

Steps:

1. While launching Photoshop, press and hold Command + Option + Shift.
2. When prompted with the option to delete Adobe Photoshop Settings File, click Yes.

Photoshop will load with default settings, and you can now test if the shortcut works.

5. Update or Reinstall Photoshop

Occasionally, the shortcut problem is caused by a bug in a specific release version of Photoshop. Adobe frequently patches such bugs in updates. Keeping your version of Photoshop up to date can help maintain full functionality.

Steps:

1. Open the Creative Cloud app.
2. Go to the Apps tab, and look for Photoshop in the list.
3. Click Update if available.

If the app is already up to date and the issue persists, uninstalling and then reinstalling Photoshop may help eliminate persistent software conflicts or file corruptions.

6. Test on a New User Account or Safe Mode

To eliminate broader macOS-level conflicts, consider testing Photoshop in a different user account or in Safe Mode.

Creating a new macOS user account can isolate the issue. If the shortcut works there, it’s likely a user-level conflict with third-party utilities or preference settings.

1. Go to System Settings > Users & Groups.
2. Create a new user and switch to it.
3. Launch Photoshop and test the shortcut behavior.

If the shortcut functions correctly in a new account, some settings or startup programs in your primary user account may be interfering.

7. Use Alternative Shortcut Methods

If you’re still unable to use Command + Option + G, you don’t have to forego creating clipping masks entirely. Photoshop supports the same function through its menus:

1. Select the layer to be clipped.
2. Go to the top menu and choose Layer > Create Clipping Mask.

This can serve as a temporary workaround until the shortcut issue is resolved permanently.

Conclusion

When the Command + Option + G shortcut in Photoshop fails on a Mac, it doesn’t necessarily indicate a major issue. Whether it’s an incorrect layer selection, a hidden system conflict, or problems with Photoshop settings, there are logical steps to troubleshoot and restore this essential function.

By methodically checking each potential problem — from layer context to software preferences — users can usually identify the culprit and implement a fix quickly. As always, keeping both macOS and Photoshop up to date prevents many shortcut conflicts and software bugs.

FAQ

• Q: What does Command + Option + G do in Photoshop?
  A: It creates a clipping mask between the selected layer and the one below it, allowing the top layer to display only where the bottom layer is visible.
• Q: Why would a Photoshop shortcut stop working suddenly?
  A: Common causes include keyboard conflicts with macOS, accidental shortcut reassignments, corrupted preferences, or incompatible software versions.
• Q: Can I customize the Command + Option + G shortcut?
  A: Yes. Photoshop’s Keyboard Shortcuts editor allows users to reassign or change any shortcut within the app.
• Q: Does Safe Mode affect Photoshop functions?
  A: Photoshop generally works in Safe Mode, though some plug-ins or GPU-related features may be disabled. It’s useful for diagnosing shortcut conflicts.
• Q: Are there other ways to apply a clipping mask?
  A: Yes, you can also apply it manually via the top menu by selecting Layer > Create Clipping Mask.