How to Make a PSD Using Photoshop

You've heard of "Photoshop," the shortened name of the Adobe Photoshop Elements software. The default extension used by Photoshop is a PSD Photoshop Document. With a little practice and some patience, you can make a PSD using Photoshop and impress even the graphic designer in your family.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Computer
• Adobe Photoshop Elements software

1. Purchase and install Adobe Photoshop Elements onto your computer. You can find the Photoshop software at a retail store on an installation CD or you can purchase the software directly through the Adobe website. Remember to register your new software to receive future updates.

2. Open the Photoshop software by double-clicking the "Adobe Photoshop Elements" icon on your desktop.

3. Create a new document. With Photoshop open, click on "File," "New," then "Blank File." At the "New" menu, you can name your file and choose your file's size and background color. Click "OK" when you're ready to continue creating your document.

4. Edit your Photoshop document. One of the great things about the Photoshop software is its ease in allowing you to be creative. You can "Paste" or "Import" in images or other documents and include text or headlines.

5. Save your document as a PSD. Click "File" then "Save As." In the "Save As" menu, type in the "File Name" you wish to save your document under and set the "Format" as "Photoshop (*.PSD)." Then click "Save."

Tips & Warnings

• For assistance in making your PSD, click "Help" and "Photoshop Elements Help." Tutorials are also available in the "Help" menu.

Resources

• Adobe Photoshop Elements Homepage