To reset Photoshop’s desktop workspace, choose Window > Workspace > Reset > Essentials (Default). For a different saved layout, reset that workspace by name; for every preset workspace, use Restore Default Workspaces. If tools are missing, restore the toolbar separately. These options affect different settings, so start with the narrowest reset that solves the problem.
Reset the default Essentials workspace
Adobe identifies Essentials as Photoshop’s default desktop workspace. Resetting it returns its panels and arrangement to the default layout.
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- Open the workspace switcher in the Application bar and select Essentials.
- Alternatively, choose Window > Workspace > Reset > Essentials (Default).
Adobe’s Restore workspaces in Photoshop page describes these options. If you only want to reset another saved layout, use its named reset option instead of switching to Essentials.
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Reset one saved workspace or all preset workspaces
Choose the reset scope that matches what you want to preserve. A single-workspace reset leaves other saved layouts alone; restoring all preset workspaces resets presets such as Essentials and Photography to their original layouts.
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| What to reset | Where to find it | Effect |
|---|---|---|
| One saved workspace | Workspace switcher > Reset <Workspace Name> | Restores the selected preset or custom workspace. |
| All preset workspaces | Windows: Edit > Preferences > Workspace macOS: Photoshop > Settings > Workspace Then select Restore Default Workspaces. |
Restores preset workspaces, including Essentials and Photography, to their original layouts. |
Custom workspaces can save panel locations, keyboard shortcuts, and menus. If you rely on a custom arrangement, reset that workspace by name rather than restoring every preset. See Adobe’s workspace instructions and save custom workspaces guidance.
Restore the toolbar when tools are missing
A workspace reset and a toolbar reset are separate options. If a tool disappeared from the toolbar, first choose Edit > Toolbar > Restore Defaults. Adobe also recommends choosing Window > Workspace > Essentials (Default) or Reset Essentials when troubleshooting missing tools.
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If the tool has been moved into Extra Tools, open the toolbar customization dialog and move it back. Adobe’s current tools missing from toolbar guidance and toolbar customization instructions cover these options.
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Resetting preferences is broader than restoring panels or a toolbar. Preferences include settings for display, file saving, and performance, so this is better reserved for problems that persist beyond a workspace reset.
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- Back up customized preferences first, as Adobe recommends.
- Use the reset option in Photoshop Preferences or Settings, or quit Photoshop and relaunch it while holding Alt + Ctrl + Shift on Windows or Option + Command + Shift on macOS.
- Accept the prompt to delete the Photoshop settings file.
Because this reset affects more than the workspace, use Adobe’s Reset preferences in Photoshop instructions and confirm that you intend to clear broader settings before proceeding.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Reset the interface in Photoshop on the web
The web app has a separate reset path. Open App settings and select Reset interface to default to restore its interface and workspace layout. This is not the desktop workspace menu. See Adobe’s Photoshop on the web app settings instructions.
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