Mastering GIMP: From Fundamentals to Professional Workflow

Introduction

What is GIMP?

GIMP (GNU Image Manipulation Program) is a powerful, free, and open-source image editing software that provides professional-grade tools for image manipulation, photo retouching, digital art creation, and graphic design. Often referred to as the "free Photoshop alternative," GIMP offers a comprehensive suite of features that rival commercial software while remaining accessible to users of all skill levels.

GIMP vs Other Image Editing Software

Feature	GIMP	Photoshop	Affinity Photo	Krita	Darktable
Cost	Free	Subscription	One-time purchase	Free	Free
Platform	Cross-platform	Windows/Mac	Windows/Mac/iOS	Cross-platform	Cross-platform
Learning Curve	Moderate	Steep	Moderate	Moderate	Steep
Community Support	Strong	Strong	Growing	Strong	Strong
Color Management	Full `ICC`	Full `ICC`	Full `ICC`	Basic	Advanced
Non-destructive Editing	Limited	Extensive	Extensive	Basic	Full
Vector Tools	Basic	Advanced	Advanced	Basic	None
`RAW` Processing	Basic	Advanced	Advanced	Basic	Advanced
Performance	Good	Excellent	Good	Good	Good
Automation	`Script-Fu`/`Python`	`Actions`/`JS`	`Macros`	`Python`	`Lua`

Professional Use Cases

Film Industry:
- Visual effects compositing
- Matte painting
- Color grading
- Title sequence design
- Texture creation for 3D models
Publishing:
- Book cover design
- Magazine layout
- Print preparation
- Color separation
- Typography and text effects
Web Development:
- UI/UX design
- Web graphics optimization
- Responsive design elements
- Icon and button creation
- Social media assets
Scientific Research:
- Image analysis
- Data visualization
- Measurement and calibration
- Batch processing
- Documentation
Game Development:
- Texture creation
- Sprite design
- UI elements
- Concept art
- Asset optimization

File Format Support

Native Formats:
- XCF (GIMP's native format)
  - Supports layers, channels, paths
  - Preserves all editing capabilities
  - Large file size
  - Not suitable for web/print
Raster Formats:
- JPEG - Best for photos and web
- PNG - Best for graphics with transparency
- TIFF - Best for print and archiving
- BMP - Windows native format
- GIF - Best for simple animations
- WebP - Best for modern web graphics
Vector Formats:
- SVG - Import/export support
- PDF - Multi-page support
Raw Formats:
- Camera-specific formats (CR2, NEF, ARW, DNG)
- Basic development tools

System Requirements

Minimum Requirements:
- Any modern computer
- 4 GB RAM
- 2 GB free space
- 1024x768 display
Recommended Requirements:
- 8 GB RAM or more
- SSD storage
- 1920x1080 display
- Graphics tablet (for digital art)

Brief History and Evolution of GIMP

GIMP's journey began in 1995 when Spencer Kimball and Peter Mattis started developing it as a semester project at the University of California, Berkeley. The first public release (version 0.54) came in 1996, and since then, GIMP has evolved through numerous versions, each bringing significant improvements in functionality, performance, and user experience.

Key milestones in GIMP's development include:

1996: First public release
1998: Version 1.0 release
2004: Version 2.0 with major interface improvements
2012: Version 2.8 introducing single-window mode
2018: Version 2.10 with significant performance improvements
2022: Version 2.99 leading to 3.0 with GTK3 support

GIMP as Free and Open Source Software

GIMP is developed under the GNU General Public License (GPL), which means it's not just free in terms of cost but also in terms of freedom. This open-source nature provides several benefits:

Complete freedom to use, study, modify, and distribute the software
No licensing fees or subscription costs
Community-driven development and improvement
Transparency in code and development process
Ability to customize and extend functionality

Core Capabilities and Use Cases of GIMP

GIMP excels in several key areas:

Photo Editing and Retouching
- Color correction and enhancement
- Blemish removal and portrait retouching
- HDR and tone mapping
- RAW image processing
Digital Art and Illustration
- Digital painting and drawing
- Concept art creation
- Texture design
- Digital illustration
Graphic Design
- Logo design
- Web graphics
- Print materials
- Social media content
Technical Image Processing
- Scientific image analysis
- Medical imaging
- Astronomical image processing
- Document scanning and processing

Who Uses GIMP: Artists, Designers, Photographers

GIMP's user base is diverse and includes:

Professional photographers
Digital artists and illustrators
Graphic designers
Web designers
Students and educators
Hobbyists and enthusiasts
Small business owners
Non-profit organizations
Educational institutions

Course Overview and Objectives

This comprehensive guide aims to:

Provide a solid foundation in GIMP's core features
Develop professional-level skills in image manipulation
Master advanced techniques for specific use cases
Build efficient workflows for different types of projects
Understand best practices for various output formats

Learning Outcomes

By the end of this guide, you will be able to:

Beginner Level (1-2 months)

Navigate GIMP's interface with confidence
Perform basic image adjustments
Work with layers and selections
Use essential tools effectively

Intermediate Level (3-4 months)

Create complex compositions
Master advanced selection techniques
Work with masks and channels
Apply professional retouching

Advanced Level (5-6 months)

Develop custom workflows
Create and use scripts
Master color management
Handle complex projects

Professional Skills

Optimize images for different output formats
Automate repetitive tasks
Troubleshoot common issues
Implement industry-standard techniques

Industry-Specific Techniques

Photography:
- RAW processing
- Color grading
- Portrait retouching
- Landscape enhancement
- HDR processing
- Focus stacking
- Noise reduction
- Lens correction
Design:
- Typography
- Layout
- Branding
- Logo design
- Print preparation
- Web graphics
- Social media
- Packaging
Digital Art:
- Digital painting
- Illustration
- Concept art
- Texture design
- Character design
- Environment art
- Matte painting
- Visual effects
Web:
- UI/UX design
- Responsive graphics
- Icon design
- Web optimization
- Animation
- Interactive elements
- Social media
- Email graphics
Print:
- Prepress preparation
- Color management
- Bleed setup
- Resolution control
- File format optimization
- Proofing
- Quality control
- Output preparation

Structure of the Guide and Navigation Tips

The guide is organized into logical sections that build upon each other:

Foundation (Installation, Interface, Basic Tools)
Core Skills (Layers, Selections, Masks)
Advanced Techniques (Color Management, Filters, Plug-ins)
Specialized Applications (Photo Editing, Digital Art, Design)
Professional Workflows (Automation, Optimization)

Each section includes:

Step-by-step tutorials
Practical examples
Tips and best practices
Common pitfalls to avoid
Exercises for practice

How to Set Up a Productive Learning Environment

To get the most out of this guide:

Install the latest stable version of GIMP
Set up a dedicated workspace with:
- Sufficient screen space
- Comfortable input devices
- Backup storage
- Color-calibrated monitor (if possible)
Create a practice folder structure
Download sample images and resources
Set up version control for your projects

Recommended Hardware and Software Setup

Minimum Requirements:

4GB RAM (8GB recommended)
2GB free disk space
1024x768 display resolution
Modern operating system (Windows 7+, macOS 10.12+, Linux)

Recommended Setup:

16GB RAM or more
SSD storage
1920x1080 or higher display resolution
Graphics tablet for digital art
Color-calibrated monitor
Backup solution

How to Contribute to GIMP Development

There are many ways to contribute to GIMP's development:

Code Contributions
- Bug fixes
- Feature implementations
- Performance improvements
Documentation
- User guides
- Tutorials
- API documentation
Community Support
- Forum participation
- Bug reporting
- Feature requests
Testing
- Beta testing
- Bug verification
- Performance testing
Translation
- UI translation
- Documentation translation
- Tutorial translation
Art and Design
- Icon design
- UI/UX improvements
- Example artwork

Installation and Initial Setup

Downloading GIMP from Official Sources

GIMP can be downloaded from several official sources:

Official GIMP Website: Visit gimp.org for the latest stable version
- Choose between stable and development versions
  - Stable: Recommended for production use
    - Latest stable release (2.10.x)
    - Security updates
    - Bug fixes
    - Performance improvements
  - Development: For testing new features
    - Nightly builds
    - Development snapshots
    - Release candidates
    - Feature previews
  - Release candidates: Pre-release testing
    - Beta versions
    - Performance testing
    - Compatibility testing
    - Bug reporting
- Select the appropriate version for your operating system
  - Windows: 32-bit or 64-bit
    - 32-bit: Legacy support
    - 64-bit: Modern systems
    - ARM64: Windows 11
  - macOS: Intel or Apple Silicon
    - Intel: x86_64 architecture
    - Apple Silicon: ARM architecture
    - Universal binary: Both architectures
  - Linux: Distribution-specific packages
    - Debian/Ubuntu packages
    - Fedora/RHEL packages
    - Arch Linux packages
    - Source code
- Check system requirements before downloading
  - Minimum hardware specifications
    - CPU: 1.6 GHz or faster
    - RAM: 2GB minimum
    - Storage: 500MB free space
    - Graphics: DirectX 9 compatible
  - Required system libraries
    - GTK+ 3.0 or later
    - GLib 2.0 or later
    - Cairo 1.0 or later
    - Pango 1.0 or later
  - Graphics card compatibility
    - OpenGL support
    - Hardware acceleration
    - Display drivers
- Note the download size (typically 100-200MB)
  - Core application: ~100MB
    - Main executable
    - Core libraries
    - Basic resources
  - Additional resources: ~50MB
    - Brushes
    - Patterns
    - Gradients
  - Documentation: ~20MB
    - User manual
    - Help files
    - Tutorials
- Download options:
  - Direct download
    - HTTP/HTTPS
    - FTP
    - SFTP
  - Torrent download
    - Peer-to-peer
    - Multiple sources
    - Resume support
  - Mirror selection
    - Geographic location
    - Download speed
    - Server load
- Version history:
  - Current stable: 2.10.x
    - Latest features
    - Security updates
    - Bug fixes
  - Development: 2.99.x
    - New features
    - Experimental tools
    - Performance improvements
  - Legacy: 2.8.x
    - Older systems
    - Legacy support
    - Compatibility
GIMP Development Releases: Access development builds at gimp.org/downloads
- Nightly builds for testing new features
  - Automatic daily builds
    - Latest code changes
    - Continuous integration
    - Build automation
  - Latest code changes
    - Git repository
    - Commit history
    - Change logs
  - Experimental features
    - New tools
    - Interface changes
    - Performance improvements
- Development snapshots for bug testing
  - Weekly builds
    - Regular updates
    - Feature integration
    - Bug fixes
  - Feature previews
    - Upcoming features
    - UI changes
    - Tool improvements
  - Bug fixes
    - Issue tracking
    - Bug reports
    - Fix verification
- Release candidates for upcoming versions
  - Beta testing
    - Feature testing
    - Performance testing
    - Compatibility testing
  - Performance testing
    - Speed optimization
    - Memory usage
    - Resource management
  - Compatibility testing
    - OS compatibility
    - Hardware compatibility
    - Software compatibility
- Warning: Development versions may be unstable
  - Backup your data
    - Project files
    - Settings
    - Resources
  - Test in separate environment
    - Virtual machine
    - Test system
    - Isolated installation
  - Report bugs to developers
    - Bug tracker
    - Forums
    - Mailing lists
- Development version features:
  - New tools and filters
    - Advanced tools
    - Special effects
    - Image processing
  - Interface improvements
    - UI updates
    - Workflow changes
    - Accessibility
  - Performance enhancements
    - Speed improvements
    - Memory optimization
    - Resource usage
  - Bug fixes and patches
    - Security fixes
    - Stability improvements
    - Compatibility updates
Alternative Download Mirrors:
- SourceForge
  - Multiple download locations
    - Geographic distribution
      - North America
      - Europe
      - Asia
      - Australia
    - Load balancing
      - Server distribution
      - Traffic management
      - Failover systems
    - Failover options
      - Backup servers
      - Redundancy
      - Recovery systems
  - Faster download speeds
    - CDN integration
      - Content delivery
      - Edge servers
      - Caching
    - Bandwidth optimization
      - Compression
      - Protocol optimization
      - Connection management
    - Connection management
      - Resume support
      - Multiple connections
      - Speed control
  - Mirror selection options
    - Automatic selection
      - Location-based
      - Speed-based
      - Load-based
    - Manual override
      - Server selection
      - Protocol choice
      - Connection settings
    - Speed testing
      - Ping test
      - Download test
      - Server response
  - Additional features:
    - Download resume
      - Partial downloads
      - Connection recovery
      - Progress tracking
    - Checksum verification
      - MD5
      - SHA256
      - GPG signatures
    - Version history
      - Release archive
      - Change logs
      - Documentation
- FTP Server
  - Direct file access
    - Raw file transfer
      - Binary mode
      - ASCII mode
      - Auto mode
    - Directory browsing
      - File listing
      - Directory structure
      - Navigation
    - File listing
      - Size information
      - Date modified
      - Permissions
  - Historical versions
    - Archive access
      - Old releases
      - Development versions
      - Source code
    - Version history
      - Release notes
      - Change logs
      - Documentation
    - Release notes
      - Features
      - Bug fixes
      - Known issues
  - Source code archives
    - Complete source
      - Source code
      - Build files
      - Documentation
    - Patches
      - Bug fixes
      - Feature additions
      - Security updates
    - Documentation
      - API docs
      - Developer guides
      - User manuals
  - FTP features:
    - Resume support
      - Partial downloads
      - Connection recovery
      - Progress tracking
    - Directory mirroring
      - Full mirror
      - Incremental sync
      - Change detection
    - Batch downloads
      - Multiple files
      - Directory recursion
      - Pattern matching
Version Selection Guide:
- Stable version: Recommended for most users
  - Production use
    - Professional work
    - Regular projects
    - Critical systems
  - Regular updates
    - Security patches
    - Bug fixes
    - Minor improvements
  - Security patches
    - Vulnerability fixes
    - Security updates
    - System protection
- Development version: For testing and development
  - Feature testing
    - New tools
    - Interface changes
    - Performance improvements
  - Bug reporting
    - Issue tracking
    - Error reporting
    - Feedback
  - Development work
    - Code contribution
    - Plugin development
    - Customization
- Source code: For custom builds and modifications
  - Custom compilation
    - Platform-specific
    - Feature selection
    - Optimization
  - Feature modification
    - Code changes
    - Tool customization
    - Interface adaptation
  - Platform adaptation
    - OS compatibility
    - Hardware support
    - System integration
- Portable version: For USB drives and temporary installations
  - No installation required
    - Direct execution
    - No system changes
    - Easy removal
  - Portable settings
    - Configuration files
    - User preferences
    - Resource paths
  - Temporary use
    - Quick access
    - System independence
    - Easy cleanup
Download Verification:
- File integrity checks
  - MD5 checksums
    - File verification
    - Integrity check
    - Corruption detection
  - SHA256 verification
    - Strong verification
    - Security check
    - File validation
  - GPG signatures
    - Digital signatures
    - Authentication
    - Trust verification
- Download verification tools
  - Checksum calculators
    - Hash generation
    - File comparison
    - Batch processing
  - Signature verifiers
    - GPG verification
    - Certificate check
    - Trust validation
  - Download managers
    - Progress tracking
    - Resume support
    - Speed control
- Security considerations
  - SSL/TLS verification
    - Secure connection
    - Certificate validation
    - Encryption
  - Certificate validation
    - Chain verification
    - Trust check
    - Expiration check
  - Source authentication
    - Server verification
    - Domain validation
    - Reputation check

Always download from official sources to ensure security and stability.

Verifying Installer Integrity (Checksums and Signatures)

Windows Installer Verification

Download the SHA256 checksum file from the official website
- Look for files named gimp-*-setup.exe.sha256
  - Version-specific checksums
  - Architecture-specific files
  - Language-specific packages
- Save both installer and checksum in the same directory
  - Create dedicated folder
  - Maintain file organization
  - Track versions
- Note the expected checksum value
  - Copy to secure location
  - Verify format
  - Compare with download

Use PowerShell to verify:

# Method 1: Using Get-FileHash
Get-FileHash -Algorithm SHA256 gimp-installer.exe | Compare-Object (Get-Content checksum.txt)

# Method 2: Manual verification
$hash = Get-FileHash -Algorithm SHA256 gimp-installer.exe
$expected = Get-Content checksum.txt
if ($hash.Hash -eq $expected) { Write-Host "Verification successful" }

# Method 3: Batch verification
$files = Get-ChildItem -Path ".\" -Filter "*.exe"
foreach ($file in $files) {
    $hash = Get-FileHash -Algorithm SHA256 $file.FullName
    Write-Host "$($file.Name): $($hash.Hash)"
}

# Method 4: Automated verification script
$installer = "gimp-installer.exe"
$checksum = "checksum.txt"
$hash = Get-FileHash -Algorithm SHA256 $installer
$expected = Get-Content $checksum
if ($hash.Hash -eq $expected) {
    Write-Host "Verification successful" -ForegroundColor Green
} else {
    Write-Host "Verification failed" -ForegroundColor Red
    Write-Host "Expected: $expected"
    Write-Host "Actual: $($hash.Hash)"
}

Troubleshooting:
- If checksums don't match, download the file again
  - Clear browser cache
  - Use different download method
  - Try alternative mirror
- Check for download interruptions
  - Verify file size
  - Check download logs
  - Monitor network connection
- Verify you're using the correct checksum file
  - Check file version
  - Verify file format
  - Compare file names
- Ensure file wasn't modified during download
  - Check file permissions
  - Verify file attributes
  - Monitor file changes

Advanced Verification:

Digital signature verification

# Verify digital signature
Get-AuthenticodeSignature gimp-installer.exe

# Check certificate chain
certutil -verify gimp-installer.exe

File integrity monitoring

# Monitor file changes
$watcher = New-Object System.IO.FileSystemWatcher
$watcher.Path = "."
$watcher.Filter = "gimp-installer.exe"
$watcher.EnableRaisingEvents = $true

Automated verification system

# Create verification script
$config = @{
    Installer = "gimp-installer.exe"
    Checksum = "checksum.txt"
    LogFile = "verification.log"
}

macOS Package Verification

Check the package signature:

# Verify the package signature
pkgutil --check-signature GIMP.pkg

# Check the certificate
security find-certificate -a -c "GIMP" -Z

# Verify certificate chain
security verify-cert -c /path/to/certificate

# Check code signing
codesign -vv -d GIMP.pkg

# Verify notarization
xcrun stapler validate GIMP.pkg

Verify SHA256 checksum:

# Calculate checksum
shasum -a 256 GIMP.pkg

# Compare with provided checksum
echo "expected_checksum GIMP.pkg" | shasum -a 256 -c

# Automated verification
#!/bin/bash
EXPECTED=$(cat checksum.txt)
ACTUAL=$(shasum -a 256 GIMP.pkg | cut -d' ' -f1)
if [ "$EXPECTED" = "$ACTUAL" ]; then
    echo "Verification successful"
else
    echo "Verification failed"
fi

# Batch verification
for pkg in *.pkg; do
    shasum -a 256 "$pkg"
done

Additional Security Checks:

Verify the developer certificate

# Check certificate validity
security verify-cert -c /path/to/certificate

# Verify certificate chain
security verify-cert -k /path/to/keychain

Check Gatekeeper settings

# Check Gatekeeper status
spctl --status

# Verify app notarization
xcrun stapler validate GIMP.pkg

Review security permissions

# Check file permissions
ls -l GIMP.pkg

# Verify ACLs
ls -le GIMP.pkg

Scan for malware (optional)

# Use built-in scanner
xattr -l GIMP.pkg

# Check quarantine status
xattr -d com.apple.quarantine GIMP.pkg

Advanced Security Features:

System Integrity Protection

# Check SIP status
csrutil status

# Verify system integrity
/usr/libexec/repair_packages --verify --standard-pkgs /

File System Permissions

# Check file system permissions
find /usr/bin/gimp -type f -exec sha256sum {} \;

# Verify file permissions
find /usr/bin/gimp -type f -exec ls -l {} \;

Security Context

# Check security context
ls -Z /Applications/GIMP.app

# Verify security attributes
xattr -l /Applications/GIMP.app

Linux Package Verification

Verify GPG signature:

# Import the GIMP public key
gpg --keyserver keys.gnupg.net --recv-keys 0x7B44D54E

# Verify the signature
gpg --verify gimp-*.tar.bz2.sig

# Check the key fingerprint
gpg --fingerprint 0x7B44D54E

# Advanced key management
#!/bin/bash
KEY_ID="0x7B44D54E"
KEYSERVER="keys.gnupg.net"

# Import key
gpg --keyserver $KEYSERVER --recv-keys $KEY_ID

# Verify key
gpg --fingerprint $KEY_ID

# Check key trust
gpg --check-trustdb

# Verify signature
for file in *.tar.bz2; do
    gpg --verify "${file}.sig" "$file"
done

Check SHA256 checksum:

# Verify the checksum
sha256sum -c gimp-*.tar.bz2.sha256

# Manual verification
sha256sum gimp-*.tar.bz2

# Automated verification script
#!/bin/bash
for file in *.tar.bz2; do
    if [ -f "${file}.sha256" ]; then
        sha256sum -c "${file}.sha256"
    else
        echo "No checksum file for $file"
    fi
done

# Batch verification
find . -name "*.tar.bz2" -exec sha256sum {} \; > checksums.txt
diff checksums.txt original_checksums.txt

Package Manager Verification:

# Debian/Ubuntu
apt-key list | grep GIMP

# Fedora
rpm -qa | grep gpg-pubkey

# Advanced package verification
#!/bin/bash
# Check package integrity
if command -v dpkg &> /dev/null; then
    # Debian/Ubuntu
    dpkg -V gimp
elif command -v rpm &> /dev/null; then
    # Fedora/RHEL
    rpm -V gimp
fi

# Verify package signatures
if command -v apt &> /dev/null; then
    apt-key verify /path/to/release.gpg
elif command -v dnf &> /dev/null; then
    rpm --checksig gimp-*.rpm
fi

Advanced Security Features:

System Security

# Check system security
auditctl -l

# Verify system integrity
aide --check

Package Security

# Check package security
debian-goodies
rpm -qa --qf '%{SIGPGP:pgpsig}\n'

File System Security

# Check file system security
find /usr/bin/gimp -type f -exec sha256sum {} \;

# Verify file permissions
find /usr/bin/gimp -type f -exec ls -l {} \;

Installing GIMP on Windows

System Requirements:
- Windows 7 or later (32-bit or 64-bit)
  - Windows 7 SP1
  - Windows 8.1
  - Windows 10
  - Windows 11
- 64-bit processor recommended
  - Intel Core i3 or better
  - AMD Ryzen 3 or better
  - ARM64 support (Windows 11)
- 2GB RAM minimum (4GB recommended)
  - Physical memory
  - Virtual memory
  - Page file size
- 500MB free disk space
  - Installation directory
  - User data
  - Temporary files
- DirectX 9 compatible graphics card
  - Hardware acceleration
  - OpenGL support
  - Display drivers
- Internet connection for updates
  - Windows Update
  - GIMP updates
  - Resource downloads
- Administrator privileges
  - Installation rights
  - System modifications
  - File associations
Installation Steps:
- Download the installer from gimp.org
  - Choose the correct architecture (32/64-bit)
    - Check system type
    - Verify compatibility
    - Select appropriate version
  - Select the appropriate language
    - Interface language
    - Documentation language
    - Help files
  - Note the download location
    - Default download folder
    - Custom location
    - Network path
- Run the installer as administrator
  - Right-click the installer
    - Context menu
    - Run as administrator
    - UAC prompt
  - Select "Run as administrator"
    - Security warning
    - Permission request
    - User account control
  - Accept the UAC prompt
    - Security verification
    - Permission grant
    - Installation start
- Follow the installation wizard
  - Accept the license agreement
    - Read terms
    - Accept conditions
    - Proceed with installation
  - Choose installation location
    - Default: C:\Program Files\GIMP 2
      - System drive
      - Program files
      - Application directory
    - Custom: Select your preferred directory
      - Different drive
      - Custom path
      - Network location
  - Select components to install
    - Core application
      - Main program
      - Required libraries
      - System components
    - Python support
      - Python interpreter
      - Required modules
      - Script support
    - Documentation
      - User manual
      - Help files
      - Tutorials
    - Desktop shortcuts
      - Start menu
      - Desktop
      - Quick launch
    - File associations
      - Image formats
      - Project files
      - Export formats
  - Choose start menu folder
    - Default location
    - Custom folder
    - Shortcut creation
  - Review installation summary
    - Component list
    - Space requirements
    - Installation path
  - Complete the installation
    - Progress bar
    - Status updates
    - Completion message
Post-Installation:
- Create desktop shortcut
  - Right-click desktop
    - Context menu
    - New shortcut
    - Location selection
  - New > Shortcut
    - Shortcut wizard
    - Target location
    - Shortcut name
  - Browse to GIMP executable
    - Program files
    - Application directory
    - Executable file
  - Name the shortcut
    - Default name
    - Custom name
    - Icon selection
- Associate file types
  - Open GIMP
    - Start menu
    - Desktop shortcut
    - Run command
  - Edit > Preferences > File Associations
    - Settings dialog
    - File types
    - Default programs
  - Select file types to associate
    - Image formats
    - Project files
    - Export formats
  - Apply changes
    - Save settings
    - Update registry
    - Refresh associations
- Set up file associations
  - Control Panel > Default Programs
    - System settings
    - Default apps
    - File associations
  - Set GIMP as default for supported formats
    - Image formats
    - Project files
    - Export formats
  - Configure file type associations
    - File extensions
    - MIME types
    - Program defaults
Troubleshooting:
- Installation fails
  - Check system requirements
    - Hardware compatibility
    - Software requirements
    - System updates
  - Verify administrator rights
    - User account type
    - Permission levels
    - Security settings
  - Clear temporary files
    - Temp directory
    - Download cache
    - Installation logs
  - Disable antivirus temporarily
    - Security software
    - Real-time protection
    - Firewall settings
- Missing components
  - Run installer repair
    - Control Panel
    - Programs and Features
    - Repair option
  - Check installation logs
    - Error messages
    - Warning signs
    - Status codes
  - Verify disk space
    - Free space
    - Partition size
    - System requirements
- Performance issues
  - Update graphics drivers
    - Device Manager
    - Driver updates
    - Hardware acceleration
  - Adjust memory settings
    - Virtual memory
    - Page file
    - System cache
  - Check system resources
    - CPU usage
    - Memory usage
    - Disk space
Advanced Configuration:
- System Integration
  - Registry settings
  - Environment variables
  - System paths
- Performance Tuning
  - Memory allocation
  - Cache settings
  - Thread management
- Security Settings
  - File permissions
  - Access control
  - Security policies

Installing GIMP on macOS

System Requirements:
- macOS 10.12 or later
  - Sierra
  - High Sierra
  - Mojave
  - Catalina
  - Big Sur
  - Monterey
  - Ventura
- 64-bit processor
  - Intel Core series
  - Apple Silicon
  - ARM architecture
- 2GB RAM minimum
  - Physical memory
  - Virtual memory
  - Memory management
- 500MB free disk space
  - System drive
  - Application support
  - User data
- Metal-compatible graphics card
  - Hardware acceleration
  - OpenGL support
  - Display drivers
- Internet connection for updates
  - App Store
  - System updates
  - Resource downloads
- Administrator privileges
  - Installation rights
  - System modifications
  - File associations
Installation Methods:
- DMG Package:
  - Download the .dmg file
    - Choose the correct version
      - Intel
      - Apple Silicon
      - Universal binary
    - Verify the download
      - Checksum
      - Signature
      - File integrity
    - Note the file location
      - Downloads folder
      - Custom location
      - Network path
  - Mount the disk image
    - Double-click the .dmg file
      - Finder integration
      - Mount process
      - Volume creation
    - Wait for verification
      - Security check
      - File scan
      - Integrity verification
    - Accept security warnings
      - Gatekeeper
      - Security settings
      - Permission requests
  - Drag GIMP to Applications folder
    - Open Applications folder
      - Finder window
      - Applications view
      - System location
    - Drag GIMP icon
      - Copy process
      - File transfer
      - Progress indicator
    - Wait for copy to complete
      - Transfer speed
      - File size
      - Completion status
    - Eject the disk image
      - Unmount process
      - Cleanup
      - Resource release
- Homebrew:
```
# Install Homebrew if not present
/bin/bash -c "$(curl -fsSL https://raw.githubusercontent.com/Homebrew/install/HEAD/install.sh)"

# Install GIMP
brew install gimp

# Update GIMP
brew upgrade gimp

# Remove GIMP
brew uninstall gimp

# Advanced Homebrew commands
#!/bin/bash
# Check GIMP status
brew info gimp

# Verify installation
brew doctor

# Clean up old versions
brew cleanup

# Update all packages
brew update && brew upgrade
```
Post-Installation:
- First launch security settings
  - Open System Preferences
    - System settings
    - Security options
    - Privacy controls
  - Security & Privacy
    - General settings
    - Security options
    - Privacy settings
  - Allow GIMP to run
    - Gatekeeper
    - Security exceptions
    - App permissions
  - Grant necessary permissions
    - File access
    - System integration
    - Resource usage
- Gatekeeper permissions
  - Check app signature
    - Developer certificate
    - Code signing
    - Notarization
  - Verify developer certificate
    - Certificate chain
    - Trust status
    - Validity period
  - Allow from identified developer
    - Security settings
    - App permissions
    - System integration
- File associations
  - Finder > Preferences
    - View options
    - File types
    - Default apps
  - Set default applications
    - Image formats
    - Project files
    - Export formats
  - Configure file types
    - File extensions
    - MIME types
    - Program defaults
  - Set GIMP as default
    - System settings
    - File associations
    - Default programs
Troubleshooting:
- App won't open
  - Check security settings
    - Gatekeeper
    - Security preferences
    - Privacy settings
  - Verify file permissions
    - File attributes
    - Access rights
    - Ownership
  - Clear quarantine attributes
    - Extended attributes
    - Security flags
    - File metadata
- Missing features
  - Check installation logs
    - System logs
    - App logs
    - Error messages
  - Verify component installation
    - Required files
    - Dependencies
    - Resources
  - Reinstall if necessary
    - Clean removal
    - Fresh installation
    - Component verification
- Performance issues
  - Update macOS
    - System updates
    - Security patches
    - Feature updates
  - Check system resources
    - CPU usage
    - Memory usage
    - Disk space
  - Adjust memory allocation
    - Virtual memory
    - Swap space
    - Cache settings
Advanced Configuration:
- System Integration
  - Launch Services
  - File type handlers
  - URL schemes
- Performance Tuning
  - Memory management
  - Cache settings
  - Thread optimization
- Security Settings
  - File permissions
  - Access control
  - Security policies

Installing GIMP on Linux (APT, DNF, Flatpak, Snap)

APT (Debian/Ubuntu)

# Update package lists
sudo apt update

# Install GIMP
sudo apt install gimp

# Install additional packages
sudo apt install gimp-data gimp-plugin-registry gimp-data-extras

# Update GIMP
sudo apt upgrade gimp

# Remove GIMP
sudo apt remove gimp
sudo apt autoremove

# Advanced APT commands
#!/bin/bash
# Check GIMP status
dpkg -l | grep gimp

# Verify installation
dpkg -V gimp

# Clean up old versions
sudo apt clean
sudo apt autoremove

# Update all packages
sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade

DNF (Fedora)

# Update package lists
sudo dnf update

# Install GIMP
sudo dnf install gimp

# Install additional packages
sudo dnf install gimp-data-extras gimp-libs

# Update GIMP
sudo dnf upgrade gimp

# Remove GIMP
sudo dnf remove gimp

# Advanced DNF commands
#!/bin/bash
# Check GIMP status
rpm -qa | grep gimp

# Verify installation
rpm -V gimp

# Clean up old versions
sudo dnf clean all
sudo dnf autoremove

# Update all packages
sudo dnf update

Flatpak

# Install Flatpak if not present
sudo apt install flatpak
sudo apt install gnome-software-plugin-flatpak

# Add Flathub repository
flatpak remote-add --if-not-exists flathub https://flathub.org/repo/flathub.flatpakrepo

# Install GIMP
flatpak install flathub org.gimp.GIMP

# Update GIMP
flatpak update org.gimp.GIMP

# Remove GIMP
flatpak uninstall org.gimp.GIMP

# Advanced Flatpak commands
#!/bin/bash
# Check GIMP status
flatpak list | grep gimp

# Verify installation
flatpak verify org.gimp.GIMP

# Clean up old versions
flatpak uninstall --unused

# Update all packages
flatpak update

Snap

# Install Snap if not present
sudo apt install snapd

# Install GIMP
sudo snap install gimp

# Update GIMP
sudo snap refresh gimp

# Remove GIMP
sudo snap remove gimp

# Advanced Snap commands
#!/bin/bash
# Check GIMP status
snap list | grep gimp

# Verify installation
snap verify gimp

# Clean up old versions
snap list --all | grep gimp

# Update all packages
sudo snap refresh

Building GIMP from Source

Prerequisites:

Build tools (gcc, make)
```
sudo apt install build-essential
```

Development libraries

sudo apt install libglib2.0-dev libgtk2.0-dev libgdk-pixbuf2.0-dev

GTK+ development files
```
sudo apt install libgtk-3-dev
```
Python development files
```
sudo apt install python3-dev
```

Build Steps:

# Download source code
wget https://download.gimp.org/pub/gimp/v2.10/gimp-2.10.30.tar.bz2
tar xjf gimp-2.10.30.tar.bz2
cd gimp-2.10.30

# Configure build
./configure --prefix=/usr/local

# Compile
make -j$(nproc)

# Install
sudo make install

# Update library cache
sudo ldconfig

Common Build Issues:
- Missing dependencies
  - Check error messages
  - Install required packages
  - Verify library versions
- Version conflicts
  - Check system requirements
  - Update development tools
  - Resolve package conflicts
- Build environment setup
  - Set environment variables
  - Configure build options
  - Check system architecture

First Launch and Initial Configuration

Welcome Screen:
- Choose workspace layout
  - Single window mode
  - Multi-window mode
  - Custom layout
- Select default settings
  - Color management
  - Input devices
  - Performance options
- Configure preferences
  - Interface options
  - Tool options
  - Default settings
Basic Setup:
- Set up color management
  - Choose color profile
  - Set display calibration
  - Configure color spaces
- Configure input devices
  - Tablet settings
  - Mouse options
  - Keyboard shortcuts
- Adjust performance settings
  - Memory usage
  - Tile cache
  - Swap file location
Workspace Customization:
- Dock positions
  - Tool options
  - Layers dialog
  - Brushes dialog
- Tool options
  - Default settings
  - Tool presets
  - Custom configurations
- Default tools
  - Set preferred tools
  - Configure tool options
  - Save tool presets

Interface Language and Locale Settings

Changing Language:
- Edit preferences file
  - Locate preferences file
  - Set language code
  - Save changes
- Set environment variables
```
export LANG=your_language_code
export LC_ALL=your_language_code
```
- Use language packs
  - Install language pack
  - Select language
  - Apply changes
Locale Configuration:
- Date formats
  - Set date style
  - Choose time format
  - Configure calendar
- Number formats
  - Decimal separator
  - Thousands separator
  - Number system
- Measurement units
  - Choose unit system
  - Set default units
  - Configure rulers
Font Settings:
- Interface font
  - Select font family
  - Set font size
  - Choose font style
- Text tool font
  - Default font
  - Font size
  - Font options
- Font rendering
  - Anti-aliasing
  - Hinting
  - Subpixel rendering

Configuring Folders for Plug-ins, Brushes, Fonts

Default Locations:
- Windows: %APPDATA%\GIMP\2.10
  - Plug-ins: plug-ins
  - Scripts: scripts
  - Brushes: brushes
- macOS: ~/Library/Application Support/GIMP/2.10
  - User preferences
  - Custom resources
  - Cache files
- Linux: ~/.config/GIMP/2.10
  - Configuration files
  - User data
  - Custom settings
Custom Folders:
- Edit preferences
  - Open preferences dialog
  - Navigate to folders
  - Add custom paths
- Set environment variables
```
export GIMP2_DIRECTORY=/path/to/custom/directory
```
- Create symbolic links
```
ln -s /path/to/resources ~/.config/GIMP/2.10/resources
```
Resource Types:
- Plug-ins
  - Python scripts
  - C plugins
  - Script-Fu scripts
- Scripts
  - Scheme scripts
  - Python scripts
  - Perl scripts
- Brushes
  - GBR files
  - GIH files
  - VBR files
- Patterns
  - PAT files
  - Custom patterns
  - System patterns
- Gradients
  - GGR files
  - Custom gradients
  - System gradients
- Palettes
  - GPL files
  - Custom palettes
  - System palettes
- Fonts
  - System fonts
  - Custom fonts
  - Font configurations

Backing Up GIMP Settings and Preferences

Backup Locations:
- Preferences file
  - Windows: %APPDATA%\GIMP\2.10\preferences
  - macOS: ~/Library/Application Support/GIMP/2.10/preferences
  - Linux: ~/.config/GIMP/2.10/preferences
- Custom brushes
  - Brush files
  - Brush settings
  - Brush presets
- Scripts
  - Script files
  - Script settings
  - Script configurations
- Plug-ins
  - Plugin files
  - Plugin settings
  - Plugin data
Backup Methods:
- Manual copy
  - Copy files
  - Create archive
  - Store backup
- Script automation
```
# Backup script
#!/bin/bash
tar -czf gimp_backup_$(date +%Y%m%d).tar.gz ~/.config/GIMP
```
- Version control
  - Initialize repository
  - Add files
  - Commit changes
  - Push to remote
Restore Process:
- File replacement
  - Stop GIMP
  - Replace files
  - Restart GIMP
- Preference import
  - Open preferences
  - Import settings
  - Apply changes
- Resource installation
  - Copy resources
  - Update paths
  - Refresh resources

Installing Additional Resources (Brushes, Gradients, Plug-ins)

Brushes:
- Download .gbr files
  - Official repository
  - Community sites
  - Custom brushes
- Place in brushes folder
  - Windows: %APPDATA%\GIMP\2.10\brushes
  - macOS: ~/Library/Application Support/GIMP/2.10/brushes
  - Linux: ~/.config/GIMP/2.10/brushes
- Refresh brush list
  - Open brush dialog
  - Click refresh
  - Verify installation
Gradients:
- Download .ggr files
  - Official gradients
  - Custom gradients
  - Community gradients
- Place in gradients folder
  - Windows: %APPDATA%\GIMP\2.10\gradients
  - macOS: ~/Library/Application Support/GIMP/2.10/gradients
  - Linux: ~/.config/GIMP/2.10/gradients
- Refresh gradient list
  - Open gradient dialog
  - Click refresh
  - Verify installation
Plug-ins:
- Download compatible versions
  - Check GIMP version
  - Verify compatibility
  - Download plugin
- Install dependencies
  - System libraries
  - Python modules
  - Required tools
- Place in plug-ins folder
  - Windows: %APPDATA%\GIMP\2.10\plug-ins
  - macOS: ~/Library/Application Support/GIMP/2.10/plug-ins
  - Linux: ~/.config/GIMP/2.10/plug-ins
- Restart GIMP
  - Close GIMP
  - Start GIMP
  - Verify plugin
Scripts:
- Download .scm files
  - Official scripts
  - Community scripts
  - Custom scripts
- Place in scripts folder
  - Windows: %APPDATA%\GIMP\2.10\scripts
  - macOS: ~/Library/Application Support/GIMP/2.10/scripts
  - Linux: ~/.config/GIMP/2.10/scripts
- Refresh script list
  - Open script dialog
  - Click refresh
  - Verify installation
Resource Management:
- Organize resources
  - Create folders
  - Sort resources
  - Name conventions
- Update regularly
  - Check for updates
  - Backup before update
  - Test after update
- Remove unused items
  - Identify unused
  - Backup before removal
  - Clean up resources

User Interface In-Depth

Understanding the Default Workspace

When you first launch GIMP, you'll encounter a workspace that can be configured in two primary modes: Single-Window Mode and Multi-Window Mode. The default workspace is designed to provide easy access to all essential tools and dialogs while maintaining a clean, organized interface.

Single-Window Mode (Default)

Single-Window Mode consolidates all GIMP components into one main window, making it ideal for users with single monitors or those who prefer a unified workspace. This mode includes:

Main Canvas Area: The central workspace where your images are displayed and edited

Canvas Navigation: Use mouse wheel to zoom, middle-click to pan, or spacebar for temporary pan tool
- Mouse Wheel Zoom: Scroll up to zoom in, scroll down to zoom out
- Middle-Click Pan: Hold middle mouse button and drag to pan around image
- Spacebar Pan: Hold spacebar and click-drag for temporary pan tool
- Zoom Limits: Configure minimum (1%) and maximum (25600%) zoom levels
- Zoom Increments: Set custom zoom increment values (10%, 25%, 50%, 100%)
- Zoom Behavior: Choose between zoom to cursor or zoom to center
- Zoom Memory: Remember zoom level when switching between images
Multiple Views: Create multiple views of the same image for detailed work
- View Creation: Windows > New View to create additional views
- Synchronized Navigation: All views update simultaneously
- Independent Zoom: Each view can have different zoom levels
- View Management: Close, minimize, or arrange multiple views
- View Comparison: Compare different areas of the same image
- Detail Work: Work on details while seeing full image context
- Color Correction: Compare color corrections across different views
Canvas Rotation: Rotate canvas for comfortable drawing angles (Ctrl+Shift+R)
- Rotation Angle: Set custom rotation angles (0°, 15°, 30°, 45°, 90°, 180°, 270°)
- Rotation Center: Choose rotation center point
- Rotation Preview: See rotation result before applying
- Rotation Reset: Reset canvas to original orientation
- Drawing Comfort: Rotate canvas for natural drawing angles
- Tablet Support: Optimize canvas rotation for graphics tablets
- Rotation Memory: Remember rotation angle between sessions
Fullscreen Mode: Press F11 for distraction-free editing
- Fullscreen Toggle: F11 to enter/exit fullscreen mode
- Interface Hiding: Hide all interface elements except canvas
- Tool Access: Access tools via keyboard shortcuts in fullscreen
- Menu Access: Right-click for context menu in fullscreen
- Escape Key: Press Escape to exit fullscreen mode
- Distraction-Free: Remove all interface distractions
- Focus Mode: Concentrate on image editing without distractions
Canvas Information: Right-click canvas for context menu with navigation options
- Context Menu: Right-click for quick access to common functions
- Navigation Options: Zoom, pan, and view controls
- Image Information: Display image dimensions, color mode, and memory usage
- Tool Options: Quick access to tool-specific options
- Layer Information: Show current layer details and properties
- Selection Information: Display selection size and position
- Color Information: Show color values at cursor position

Toolbox: A dockable panel containing all primary tools, typically positioned on the left

Tool Organization: Tools grouped by function (Selection, Paint, Transform, Color, Text/Path)
- Selection Tools Row: Rectangle, Ellipse, Free Select, Fuzzy Select, Select by Color, Scissors, Foreground Select
- Paint Tools Row: Paintbrush, Pencil, Eraser, Airbrush, Ink, MyPaint Brush, Smudge
- Transform Tools Row: Move, Align, Crop, Unified Transform, Handle Transform, Cage Transform
- Color Tools Row: Bucket Fill, Gradient, Color Picker
- Text/Path Tools Row: Text, Path
- Additional Tools: Zoom, Measure, Warp, Heal, Clone, Perspective Clone
Tool Selection: Click tool icon or use keyboard shortcut to select
- Icon Clicking: Click any tool icon to select it
- Keyboard Shortcuts: Press tool's keyboard shortcut (R for Rectangle Select, P for Paintbrush)
- Tool Highlighting: Selected tool is highlighted with different appearance
- Tool Feedback: Visual feedback when tool is selected
- Tool Switching: Quick switching between tools using shortcuts
- Tool Memory: Remember last used tool when switching between images
- Tool Persistence: Maintain tool selection across GIMP sessions
Tool Cycling: Hold Shift and press tool shortcut to cycle through related tools
- Selection Cycling: Shift+R cycles through Rectangle, Ellipse, Free Select
- Paint Cycling: Shift+P cycles through Paintbrush, Pencil, Airbrush
- Transform Cycling: Shift+T cycles through Move, Align, Crop
- Color Cycling: Shift+B cycles through Bucket Fill, Gradient
- Text Cycling: Shift+T cycles through Text, Path
- Quick Access: Fast way to access related tools without clicking
- Tool Discovery: Discover related tools through cycling
Tool Options: Settings appear in separate dockable dialog
- Dynamic Interface: Options change based on selected tool
- Tool-Specific Settings: Each tool has unique options and parameters
- Real-Time Updates: Options update immediately when changed
- Option Persistence: Remember tool options between sessions
- Option Reset: Reset tool options to defaults
- Option Presets: Save and load custom tool option presets
- Option Documentation: Tooltips and help for each option
Tool Presets: Save and load custom tool configurations
- Preset Creation: Save current tool settings as preset
- Preset Management: Create, edit, delete, and organize presets
- Preset Categories: Organize presets by tool type or project
- Preset Sharing: Export and import presets between users
- Preset Backup: Backup and restore tool presets
- Preset Documentation: Add descriptions and notes to presets
- Preset Search: Find presets by name or description

Tool Options: A dockable panel showing settings for the currently selected tool

Dynamic Interface: Options change based on selected tool
- Context-Sensitive: Interface adapts to selected tool
- Option Visibility: Show only relevant options for current tool
- Option Organization: Logical grouping of related options
- Option Layout: Optimized layout for each tool type
- Option Accessibility: Easy access to frequently used options
- Option Persistence: Remember options between tool switches
- Option Reset: Quick reset to default values
Brush Selection: Choose from available brushes and create custom ones
- Brush Library: Access to hundreds of built-in brushes
- Brush Categories: Organize brushes by type (paint, texture, pattern)
- Brush Preview: See brush stroke preview before using
- Brush Properties: Size, hardness, angle, spacing, and dynamics
- Custom Brushes: Create and save custom brush presets
- Brush Import: Import brushes from other sources
- Brush Export: Export brushes for sharing
- Brush Search: Find brushes by name or category
- Brush Favorites: Mark frequently used brushes as favorites
Color Selection: Foreground and background color pickers with multiple color models
- Color Models: RGB, HSV, CMYK, Lab, and other color models
- Color Picker: Click to open advanced color picker dialog
- Color History: Access recently used colors
- Color Palettes: Load and save custom color palettes
- Color Harmony: Generate harmonious color schemes
- Color Sampling: Sample colors from image or other sources
- Color Values: Display exact color values in different formats
- Color Swatches: Save and organize color swatches
- Color Management: Work with color profiles and calibration
Mode Selection: Blend modes for non-destructive editing
- Normal Mode: Standard blending without special effects
- Multiply Mode: Darken colors by multiplying values
- Screen Mode: Lighten colors by inverting and multiplying
- Overlay Mode: Combine multiply and screen modes
- Soft Light Mode: Gentle lightening and darkening
- Hard Light Mode: Strong lightening and darkening
- Color Dodge Mode: Brighten colors by dividing
- Color Burn Mode: Darken colors by inverting and dividing
- Difference Mode: Subtract colors for special effects
- Exclusion Mode: Similar to difference but with lower contrast
Opacity and Flow: Control tool intensity and application
- Opacity Control: Overall transparency of tool application
- Flow Control: Rate of paint application over time
- Pressure Sensitivity: Respond to tablet pressure for natural painting
- Opacity Jitter: Random variation in opacity for organic effects
- Flow Jitter: Random variation in flow for natural painting
- Opacity Mapping: Map opacity to different input sources
- Flow Mapping: Map flow to different input sources
- Opacity Curves: Custom opacity curves for advanced control
- Flow Curves: Custom flow curves for advanced control
Tool-Specific Settings: Unique options for each tool type
- Selection Tools: Feather, anti-aliasing, fixed aspect ratio, fixed size
- Paint Tools: Brush dynamics, pressure sensitivity, tilt sensitivity
- Transform Tools: Transform modes, interpolation, constraints
- Color Tools: Fill modes, threshold, sample merged, contiguous
- Text Tools: Font selection, size, style, alignment, effects
- Path Tools: Path operations, stroke options, fill options
- Advanced Options: Tool-specific advanced parameters
- Option Presets: Save and load tool-specific option presets

Layers Dialog: A dockable panel for managing layers, channels, paths, and undo history

Layer Management: Create, delete, duplicate, and organize layers
- Layer Creation: Create new layers with custom properties
- Layer Deletion: Remove unwanted layers with confirmation
- Layer Duplication: Create exact copies of existing layers
- Layer Organization: Arrange layers in logical order
- Layer Naming: Give descriptive names to layers
- Layer Color Coding: Use colors to categorize layers
- Layer Filtering: Filter layers by type, name, or properties
- Layer Search: Find specific layers quickly
- Layer Sorting: Sort layers by various criteria
- Layer Grouping: Group related layers together
Layer Properties: Opacity, blend modes, visibility, and locking options
- Opacity Control: Adjust layer transparency from 0% to 100%
- Blend Modes: Choose from 20+ blend modes for creative effects
- Visibility Toggle: Show/hide layers with eye icon
- Lock Options: Lock position, pixels, or alpha channel
- Layer Effects: Apply drop shadows, glows, and other effects
- Layer Styles: Save and apply custom layer styles
- Layer Attributes: Set layer name, color, and other attributes
- Layer Properties: Access detailed layer information
- Layer Metadata: View and edit layer metadata
- Layer History: Track layer modification history
Layer Groups: Organize related layers for complex compositions
- Group Creation: Create groups to organize related layers
- Group Management: Add, remove, and reorganize layers in groups
- Group Properties: Set group opacity, blend modes, and visibility
- Group Masks: Apply masks to entire groups
- Group Transform: Transform entire groups as single units
- Group Duplication: Duplicate entire groups with all layers
- Group Nesting: Create nested groups for complex organization
- Group Visibility: Show/hide entire groups
- Group Locking: Lock entire groups to prevent changes
- Group Export: Export groups as separate images
Layer Masks: Add and edit masks for non-destructive editing
- Mask Creation: Create masks from selections or channels
- Mask Editing: Paint on masks to reveal or hide layer content
- Mask Properties: Adjust mask opacity, feathering, and other properties
- Mask Operations: Invert, apply, or remove masks
- Mask Linking: Link or unlink masks from layers
- Mask Duplication: Copy masks between layers
- Mask Export: Export masks as separate images
- Mask Import: Import masks from other sources
- Mask Preview: Preview mask effects before applying
- Mask History: Track mask modification history
Channels: View and edit individual color channels and alpha channel
- Color Channels: View and edit individual RGB channels
- Alpha Channel: Manage transparency information
- Channel Operations: Duplicate, delete, and modify channels
- Channel to Selection: Convert channels to pixel selections
- Selection to Channel: Convert selections to channels
- Channel Mixer: Mix channels for creative effects
- Channel Curves: Apply curves adjustments to individual channels
- Channel Levels: Apply levels adjustments to individual channels
- Channel Filters: Apply filters to individual channels
- Channel Export: Export channels as separate images
Paths: Create and manage vector paths for precise selections
- Path Creation: Create vector paths with anchor points
- Path Editing: Edit existing paths and anchor points
- Path Operations: Combine, subtract, and intersect paths
- Path to Selection: Convert paths to pixel selections
- Selection to Path: Convert selections to vector paths
- Path Stroking: Apply brush strokes along path outlines
- Path Filling: Fill paths with colors, gradients, or patterns
- Path Export: Export paths to SVG format
- Path Import: Import paths from SVG files
- Path Duplication: Copy paths between images
- Path Management: Organize and name paths
Undo History: Visual timeline of all operations with jump-to functionality
- History Timeline: Visual representation of all operations
- Operation Details: See details of each operation
- Jump to State: Click any operation to jump to that state
- History Navigation: Navigate through history with keyboard shortcuts
- History Management: Configure undo levels and memory usage
- History Export: Export history as text or image
- History Import: Import history from other sources
- History Search: Find specific operations in history
- History Filtering: Filter history by operation type
- History Backup: Backup and restore history states

Status Bar: Located at the bottom, showing information about the current image and tool

Image Information: Dimensions, color mode, zoom level, and memory usage
- Image Dimensions: Display current image size in pixels (width x height)
- Color Mode: Show image color mode (RGB, Grayscale, Indexed, etc.)
- Bit Depth: Display image bit depth (8-bit, 16-bit, 32-bit)
- Zoom Level: Current magnification percentage (1% to 25600%)
- Memory Usage: Amount of RAM used by current image
- File Size: Size of image file on disk
- Layer Count: Number of layers in current image
- Channel Count: Number of channels in current image
- Path Count: Number of paths in current image
- Undo Levels: Number of available undo levels
Tool Information: Active tool name and cursor coordinates
- Tool Name: Display name of currently selected tool
- Tool Shortcut: Show keyboard shortcut for current tool
- Cursor Position: X and Y coordinates of mouse cursor
- Selection Size: Dimensions of active selection (if any)
- Selection Position: Position of selection on canvas
- Tool Options: Quick access to tool-specific options
- Tool Presets: Access to saved tool presets
- Tool History: Recently used tools
- Tool Help: Quick access to tool documentation
- Tool Tips: Context-sensitive help for current tool
Selection Status: Information about active selections and their properties
- Selection Type: Type of active selection (rectangle, ellipse, free, etc.)
- Selection Size: Dimensions of selection in pixels
- Selection Position: Position of selection on canvas
- Selection Area: Area of selection in square pixels
- Selection Perimeter: Perimeter of selection in pixels
- Selection Center: Center point of selection
- Selection Bounds: Bounding box of selection
- Selection Feather: Feather radius of selection
- Selection Anti-aliasing: Anti-aliasing status of selection
- Selection Mode: Current selection mode (add, subtract, intersect, replace)
Performance Indicators: Memory usage, processing status, and system resources
- Memory Usage: Current RAM usage by GIMP
- Memory Available: Available system memory
- Memory Warning: Alerts when memory usage is high
- Processing Status: Shows when operations are in progress
- CPU Usage: Current CPU usage by GIMP
- Disk Usage: Disk space used by temporary files
- Network Status: Network connectivity for online features
- Plugin Status: Status of loaded plugins and extensions
- System Resources: Overall system resource usage
- Performance Warnings: Alerts for performance issues
Customizable Display: Choose which information to show and how to display it
- Information Selection: Choose which information to display
- Display Order: Arrange information in preferred order
- Display Format: Choose how to format information
- Color Coding: Use colors to highlight important information
- Font Size: Adjust font size for better readability
- Auto-Hide: Hide status bar when not needed
- Compact Mode: Reduce status bar size for more workspace
- Full Mode: Show all available information
- Custom Layout: Create custom status bar layouts
- Layout Presets: Save and load status bar layouts

Multi-Window Mode

Multi-Window Mode separates GIMP into multiple independent windows, allowing for more flexible workspace arrangements. This mode is particularly useful for:

Multi-Monitor Setups:

Primary Monitor: Main canvas and toolbox on primary display
- Canvas Display: Main image editing area on primary monitor
- Toolbox Placement: Tool palette on primary monitor for easy access
- Tool Options: Tool settings dialog on primary monitor
- Status Bar: Image information and navigation on primary monitor
- Menu Bar: Main application menu on primary monitor
- Title Bar: Window title and controls on primary monitor
- Scroll Bars: Image navigation scroll bars on primary monitor
- Rulers: Measurement rulers on primary monitor
- Guides: Alignment guides on primary monitor
- Grid: Measurement grid on primary monitor
Secondary Monitor: Dialogs and panels on secondary display
- Layers Dialog: Layer management on secondary monitor
- Channels Dialog: Channel editing on secondary monitor
- Paths Dialog: Path management on secondary monitor
- Brushes Dialog: Brush selection on secondary monitor
- Patterns Dialog: Pattern selection on secondary monitor
- Gradients Dialog: Gradient selection on secondary monitor
- Palettes Dialog: Color palette on secondary monitor
- Fonts Dialog: Font selection on secondary monitor
- Filters Dialog: Filter application on secondary monitor
- Scripts Dialog: Script management on secondary monitor
Extended Workspace: Spread interface across multiple screens
- Screen Spanning: Interface elements span across multiple monitors
- Window Distribution: Distribute windows across available screens
- Screen Detection: Automatic detection of available monitors
- Screen Configuration: Configure screen arrangement and orientation
- Screen Calibration: Calibrate colors across multiple monitors
- Screen Synchronization: Synchronize settings across monitors
- Screen Switching: Switch between different screen configurations
- Screen Presets: Save and load screen configurations
- Screen Profiles: Create profiles for different monitor setups
- Screen Optimization: Optimize interface for specific screen setups
Independent Positioning: Each window can be positioned independently
- Window Placement: Position each dialog window anywhere on screen
- Window Sizing: Resize dialog windows to preferred dimensions
- Window Arrangement: Arrange windows in custom layouts
- Window Grouping: Group related windows together
- Window Snapping: Snap windows to screen edges or other windows
- Window Cascading: Cascade windows for easy access
- Window Tiling: Tile windows for efficient space usage
- Window Minimizing: Minimize windows to taskbar or dock
- Window Maximizing: Maximize windows to full screen
- Window Restoring: Restore windows to previous positions
Screen-Specific Layouts: Different layouts for different monitor sizes
- Layout Adaptation: Adapt interface to different screen sizes
- Layout Scaling: Scale interface elements for different resolutions
- Layout Optimization: Optimize layouts for specific screen types
- Layout Presets: Save layouts for different screen configurations
- Layout Switching: Switch between layouts for different screens
- Layout Synchronization: Synchronize layouts across screens
- Layout Backup: Backup layouts for different screen setups
- Layout Restoration: Restore layouts when switching screens
- Layout Migration: Migrate layouts between different systems
- Layout Sharing: Share layouts with other users

Professional Workflows:

Color Grading: Dedicated monitor for color correction tools
- Color Correction Tools: Levels, curves, and color balance on secondary monitor
- Histogram Display: Real-time histogram on secondary monitor
- Color Picker: Advanced color picker on secondary monitor
- Color Palettes: Custom color palettes on secondary monitor
- Color History: Color usage history on secondary monitor
- Color Harmony: Color harmony tools on secondary monitor
- Color Management: Color profile management on secondary monitor
- Color Calibration: Monitor calibration tools on secondary monitor
- Color Proofing: Soft proofing tools on secondary monitor
- Color Matching: Color matching tools on secondary monitor
Photo Editing: Separate monitor for reference images and tools
- Reference Images: Display reference photos on secondary monitor
- Before/After Comparison: Compare original and edited images
- Tool Palettes: Photo editing tools on secondary monitor
- Filter Gallery: Filter preview and selection on secondary monitor
- Adjustment Layers: Adjustment layer controls on secondary monitor
- Layer Masks: Layer mask editing on secondary monitor
- Selection Tools: Advanced selection tools on secondary monitor
- Retouching Tools: Clone, heal, and retouching tools on secondary monitor
- Color Correction: Color correction tools on secondary monitor
- Export Options: Export settings and preview on secondary monitor
Digital Art: Dedicated monitor for brush and color palettes
- Brush Library: Extensive brush library on secondary monitor
- Brush Settings: Brush dynamics and settings on secondary monitor
- Color Palettes: Custom color palettes on secondary monitor
- Gradient Editor: Gradient creation and editing on secondary monitor
- Pattern Library: Pattern selection on secondary monitor
- Texture Library: Texture selection on secondary monitor
- Layer Management: Layer organization on secondary monitor
- Blend Modes: Blend mode selection on secondary monitor
- Opacity Controls: Opacity and transparency controls on secondary monitor
- Art History: Art history and undo on secondary monitor
Animation: Timeline and frame management on separate display
- Timeline Control: Animation timeline on secondary monitor
- Frame Management: Frame navigation and management on secondary monitor
- Onion Skinning: Onion skin preview on secondary monitor
- Frame Preview: Frame preview and playback on secondary monitor
- Animation Tools: Animation-specific tools on secondary monitor
- Keyframe Management: Keyframe editing on secondary monitor
- Animation Layers: Animation layer management on secondary monitor
- Animation Export: Animation export settings on secondary monitor
- Animation Preview: Animation preview on secondary monitor
- Animation Timeline: Timeline editing on secondary monitor
Print Design: Print preview and color management on dedicated monitor
- Print Preview: Print preview on secondary monitor
- Color Management: Color profile management on secondary monitor
- Print Settings: Print configuration on secondary monitor
- Bleed Settings: Bleed and trim settings on secondary monitor
- Resolution Settings: Print resolution settings on secondary monitor
- Color Proofing: Soft proofing on secondary monitor
- Print Layout: Print layout tools on secondary monitor
- Print Templates: Print templates on secondary monitor
- Print Export: Print export settings on secondary monitor
- Print Quality: Print quality controls on secondary monitor

Advanced Dialog Management:

Floating Dialogs: All dialogs become independent windows
- Independent Windows: Each dialog becomes separate window
- Window Controls: Minimize, maximize, close, and resize controls
- Window Positioning: Position dialogs anywhere on screen
- Window Sizing: Resize dialogs to preferred dimensions
- Window Arrangement: Arrange dialogs in custom layouts
- Window Grouping: Group related dialogs together
- Window Snapping: Snap dialogs to screen edges or other windows
- Window Cascading: Cascade dialogs for easy access
- Window Tiling: Tile dialogs for efficient space usage
- Window Management: Advanced window management features
Custom Arrangements: Create unique workspace layouts
- Layout Creation: Create custom dialog arrangements
- Layout Saving: Save custom layouts for reuse
- Layout Loading: Load saved layouts quickly
- Layout Management: Organize and categorize layouts
- Layout Sharing: Share layouts with other users
- Layout Export: Export layouts to files
- Layout Import: Import layouts from files
- Layout Backup: Backup important layouts
- Layout Restoration: Restore layouts from backups
- Layout Migration: Migrate layouts between systems
Dialog Grouping: Group related dialogs together
- Group Creation: Create groups of related dialogs
- Group Management: Add, remove, and reorganize dialogs in groups
- Group Properties: Set group properties and behavior
- Group Visibility: Show/hide entire groups
- Group Locking: Lock groups to prevent changes
- Group Duplication: Duplicate groups with all dialogs
- Group Nesting: Create nested groups for complex organization
- Group Export: Export groups as separate layouts
- Group Import: Import groups from other layouts
- Group Synchronization: Synchronize groups across sessions
Always on Top: Keep important dialogs visible above other applications
- Top Priority: Keep critical dialogs always visible
- Priority Management: Set priority levels for different dialogs
- Auto-Hide: Automatically hide less important dialogs
- Focus Management: Manage focus between dialogs
- Window Layering: Control window layering and stacking
- Transparency: Set transparency for less important dialogs
- Opacity Control: Adjust opacity of dialog windows
- Visibility Toggle: Toggle visibility of dialogs
- Window States: Save and restore window states
- Window Profiles: Create profiles for different dialog arrangements
Snap to Edges: Automatic alignment with screen edges
- Edge Snapping: Snap dialogs to screen edges automatically
- Window Snapping: Snap dialogs to other windows
- Grid Snapping: Snap dialogs to invisible grid
- Guide Snapping: Snap dialogs to guides
- Alignment Tools: Use alignment tools for precise positioning
- Snap Tolerance: Adjust snap sensitivity
- Snap Preview: Preview snap positions before releasing
- Snap Options: Configure snap behavior and options
- Snap Disable: Temporarily disable snapping
- Snap Customization: Customize snap behavior

Key Workspace Components

Canvas Area: The main editing space where your images are displayed. The canvas can be:

Zoom Controls: Mouse wheel, Ctrl+Plus/Minus, zoom tool, or zoom slider
- Mouse Wheel Zoom: Scroll up to zoom in, scroll down to zoom out
  - Zoom Increment: Set custom zoom increment (10%, 25%, 50%, 100%)
  - Zoom Speed: Adjust zoom speed for smooth navigation
  - Zoom Limits: Configure minimum (1%) and maximum (25600%) zoom levels
  - Zoom Behavior: Choose between zoom to cursor or zoom to center
  - Zoom Memory: Remember zoom level when switching between images
  - Zoom Preview: Preview zoom level before applying
  - Zoom Animation: Smooth zoom transitions for better user experience
  - Zoom Keyboard: Use keyboard shortcuts for precise zoom control
  - Zoom Tool: Activate zoom tool for click-to-zoom functionality
  - Zoom Slider: Use zoom slider for precise zoom level selection
- Keyboard Zoom: Ctrl+Plus to zoom in, Ctrl+Minus to zoom out
  - Zoom Increments: Standard zoom increments (10%, 25%, 50%, 100%)
  - Zoom Shortcuts: Quick access to common zoom levels
  - Zoom Presets: Save and load custom zoom levels
  - Zoom History: Navigate through zoom history
  - Zoom Reset: Reset to 100% zoom level
  - Zoom Fit: Fit image to window size
  - Zoom Actual: Display image at actual size
  - Zoom Selection: Zoom to fit current selection
  - Zoom All: Show entire image in window
Pan Navigation: Middle-click drag, spacebar+click, or pan tool
- Middle-Click Pan: Hold middle mouse button and drag to pan
  - Pan Speed: Adjust pan speed for smooth navigation
  - Pan Sensitivity: Configure pan sensitivity
  - Pan Limits: Set pan boundaries to prevent over-panning
  - Pan Smoothing: Enable smooth pan transitions
  - Pan Acceleration: Accelerate pan speed for large images
  - Pan Constraints: Constrain pan to horizontal or vertical
  - Pan Center: Center pan on specific image areas
  - Pan Reset: Reset pan position to center
  - Pan Memory: Remember pan position between sessions
- Spacebar Pan: Hold spacebar and click-drag for temporary pan
  - Temporary Tool: Spacebar temporarily activates pan tool
  - Tool Return: Automatically return to previous tool
  - Pan Preview: Preview pan position before releasing
  - Pan Snap: Snap to grid or guides while panning
  - Pan Constraints: Constrain pan to specific directions
  - Pan Speed: Adjust temporary pan speed
  - Pan Sensitivity: Configure temporary pan sensitivity
  - Pan Limits: Set temporary pan boundaries
  - Pan Reset: Reset temporary pan position
Canvas Rotation: Ctrl+Shift+R for rotation, useful for drawing comfort
- Rotation Angle: Set custom rotation angles (0°, 15°, 30°, 45°, 90°, 180°, 270°)
  - Precise Rotation: Set exact rotation angles in degrees
  - Rotation Increments: Choose rotation increment steps
  - Rotation Snap: Snap to common rotation angles
  - Rotation Preview: Preview rotation before applying
  - Rotation Center: Choose rotation center point
  - Rotation Reset: Reset canvas to original orientation
  - Rotation Memory: Remember rotation angle between sessions
  - Rotation Shortcuts: Quick access to common rotation angles
  - Rotation Animation: Smooth rotation transitions
  - Rotation Constraints: Constrain rotation to specific angles
- Drawing Comfort: Rotate canvas for natural drawing angles
  - Tablet Support: Optimize rotation for graphics tablets
  - Drawing Angles: Rotate for comfortable drawing positions
  - Ergonomic Setup: Improve drawing ergonomics
  - Artistic Workflow: Enhance artistic drawing experience
  - Precision Drawing: Improve precision for detailed work
  - Hand Position: Optimize hand and wrist position
  - Drawing Speed: Increase drawing speed and accuracy
  - Artistic Expression: Enhance artistic expression
  - Creative Workflow: Improve creative workflow
Fullscreen Mode: F11 for distraction-free editing, Tab to hide/show panels
- Fullscreen Toggle: F11 to enter/exit fullscreen mode
  - Interface Hiding: Hide all interface elements except canvas
  - Tool Access: Access tools via keyboard shortcuts in fullscreen
  - Menu Access: Right-click for context menu in fullscreen
  - Escape Key: Press Escape to exit fullscreen mode
  - Distraction-Free: Remove all interface distractions
  - Focus Mode: Concentrate on image editing without distractions
  - Artistic Focus: Enhance artistic focus and concentration
  - Professional Workflow: Improve professional editing workflow
  - Creative Environment: Create optimal creative environment
- Panel Hiding: Tab to hide/show panels in fullscreen
  - Panel Toggle: Toggle panel visibility with Tab key
  - Panel Memory: Remember panel visibility state
  - Panel Animation: Smooth panel show/hide transitions
  - Panel Customization: Customize which panels to hide
  - Panel Shortcuts: Quick access to specific panels
  - Panel Layout: Maintain panel layout when toggling
  - Panel Focus: Focus on specific panels when needed
  - Panel Organization: Organize panels for efficient workflow
  - Panel Management: Advanced panel management features
Multiple Views: Create multiple views of same image for detailed work
- View Creation: Windows > New View to create additional views
  - View Management: Create, close, and manage multiple views
  - View Synchronization: Synchronize navigation between views
  - View Independence: Independent zoom and pan for each view
  - View Comparison: Compare different areas of same image
  - View Organization: Organize views for efficient workflow
  - View Shortcuts: Keyboard shortcuts for view management
  - View Layout: Arrange views in custom layouts
  - View Profiles: Save and load view configurations
  - View Export: Export view configurations
- Synchronized Navigation: All views update simultaneously
  - Navigation Sync: Synchronize zoom, pan, and rotation
  - Selection Sync: Synchronize selections between views
  - Tool Sync: Synchronize tool changes between views
  - Layer Sync: Synchronize layer changes between views
  - Filter Sync: Synchronize filter applications between views
  - Color Sync: Synchronize color changes between views
  - Transform Sync: Synchronize transformations between views
  - Effect Sync: Synchronize effects between views
  - Sync Control: Control synchronization behavior
  - Sync Customization: Customize synchronization settings
Canvas Information: Right-click for context menu with navigation options
- Context Menu: Right-click for quick access to common functions
  - Navigation Options: Zoom, pan, and view controls
  - Image Information: Display image dimensions, color mode, and memory usage
  - Tool Options: Quick access to tool-specific options
  - Layer Information: Show current layer details and properties
  - Selection Information: Display selection size and position
  - Color Information: Show color values at cursor position
  - Canvas Properties: Display canvas properties and settings
  - View Settings: Access view-specific settings
  - Canvas Controls: Quick access to canvas controls
- Navigation Options: Zoom, pan, and view controls
  - Zoom Controls: Quick access to zoom functions
  - Pan Controls: Quick access to pan functions
  - View Controls: Quick access to view functions
  - Navigation Shortcuts: Keyboard shortcuts for navigation
  - Navigation Presets: Save and load navigation presets
  - Navigation History: Navigate through view history
  - Navigation Reset: Reset navigation to default state
  - Navigation Customization: Customize navigation behavior
  - Navigation Help: Access navigation help and tips
  - Navigation Tips: Display navigation tips and tricks
Rulers and Guides: Enable rulers (Ctrl+Shift+R) and guides for precision
- Ruler Display: Show rulers for measurement and alignment
  - Ruler Units: Choose measurement units (pixels, inches, cm, mm)
  - Ruler Position: Position rulers on top and left edges
  - Ruler Scale: Adjust ruler scale for different zoom levels
  - Ruler Snap: Snap to ruler increments
  - Ruler Customization: Customize ruler appearance
  - Ruler Shortcuts: Keyboard shortcuts for ruler functions
  - Ruler Presets: Save and load ruler configurations
  - Ruler Help: Access ruler help and documentation
  - Ruler Tips: Display ruler tips and tricks
- Guide Lines: Create and manage guide lines for alignment
  - Guide Creation: Create horizontal and vertical guides
  - Guide Positioning: Position guides precisely
  - Guide Snapping: Snap objects to guides
  - Guide Management: Manage multiple guides
  - Guide Visibility: Show/hide guides
  - Guide Locking: Lock guides to prevent movement
  - Guide Colors: Customize guide colors
  - Guide Styles: Choose guide line styles
  - Guide Shortcuts: Keyboard shortcuts for guide functions
  - Guide Presets: Save and load guide configurations
Grid Display: Show grid (Ctrl+Shift+G) for alignment and measurement
- Grid Visibility: Toggle grid display on/off
  - Grid Spacing: Set grid spacing and subdivisions
  - Grid Color: Customize grid color and opacity
  - Grid Style: Choose grid line style (solid, dashed, dotted)
  - Grid Snap: Snap objects to grid intersections
  - Grid Origin: Set grid origin point
  - Grid Rotation: Rotate grid for angled work
  - Grid Presets: Save and load grid configurations
  - Grid Shortcuts: Keyboard shortcuts for grid functions
  - Grid Help: Access grid help and documentation
  - Grid Tips: Display grid tips and tricks

Toolbox: Contains all primary tools organized in logical groups:

Selection Tools: Rectangle (R), Ellipse (E), Free Select (F), Fuzzy Select (U), Select by Color (Shift+O), Scissors (I), Foreground Select (Shift+F)
- Rectangle Select Tool (R): Create rectangular selections
  - Basic Selection: Click and drag to create rectangular selection
  - Perfect Square: Hold Shift while dragging for perfect square
  - Center Point: Hold Ctrl while dragging to start from center
  - Fixed Aspect Ratio: Set specific width/height ratios
  - Fixed Size: Create selections of exact pixel dimensions
  - Rounded Corners: Add rounded corners to rectangular selections
  - Selection Modes: Add, subtract, intersect, or replace selections
  - Feathering: Soften selection edges for smooth blending
  - Anti-aliasing: Smooth selection edges for better quality
  - Selection Preview: Preview selection before applying
- Ellipse Select Tool (E): Create elliptical and circular selections
  - Basic Selection: Click and drag to create elliptical selection
  - Perfect Circle: Hold Shift while dragging for perfect circle
  - Center Point: Hold Ctrl while dragging to start from center
  - Fixed Aspect Ratio: Maintain elliptical proportions
  - Selection Modes: Combine with existing selections
  - Feathering: Apply edge softening for natural blending
  - Anti-aliasing: Smooth selection edges for better quality
  - Selection Preview: Preview selection before applying
  - Selection Constraints: Constrain to specific shapes
  - Selection Options: Advanced selection options
- Free Select Tool (F): Create freehand and polygonal selections
  - Freehand Mode: Draw selection outline by hand
  - Polygonal Mode: Create selection with straight line segments
  - Magnetic Mode: Automatically snap to edges (when available)
  - Selection Modes: Add, subtract, or intersect with existing selections
  - Smooth Curves: Convert polygonal selections to smooth curves
  - Selection Refinement: Refine selection edges
  - Selection Preview: Preview selection before applying
  - Selection Constraints: Constrain to specific shapes
  - Selection Options: Advanced selection options
- Fuzzy Select Tool (U): Select areas of similar color (Magic Wand)
  - Color-Based Selection: Select areas of similar color
  - Threshold Control: Adjust color similarity tolerance
  - Sample Merged: Consider all visible layers when sampling
  - Contiguous: Select only connected areas of similar color
  - Selection Modes: Combine with existing selections
  - Anti-aliasing: Smooth selection edges
  - Selection Preview: Preview selection before applying
  - Selection Refinement: Refine selection edges
  - Selection Options: Advanced selection options
- Select by Color Tool (Shift+O): Select all pixels of a specific color
  - Global Selection: Select all pixels of chosen color in image
  - Threshold Control: Adjust color similarity tolerance
  - Sample Merged: Consider all visible layers
  - Selection Modes: Combine with existing selections
  - Anti-aliasing: Smooth selection edges
  - Selection Preview: Preview selection before applying
  - Selection Refinement: Refine selection edges
  - Selection Options: Advanced selection options
- Scissors Select Tool (I): Intelligent edge detection for selections
  - Edge Detection: Automatically detect and follow edges
  - Interactive Refinement: Manually adjust edge detection
  - Smooth Curves: Convert to smooth curves for better results
  - Selection Modes: Combine with existing selections
  - Edge Sensitivity: Adjust sensitivity to edge detection
  - Selection Preview: Preview selection before applying
  - Selection Refinement: Refine selection edges
  - Selection Options: Advanced selection options
- Foreground Select Tool (Shift+F): Interactive selection with painting
  - Interactive Selection: Paint to define foreground and background
  - Automatic Refinement: GIMP automatically refines selection
  - Manual Refinement: Manually adjust selection boundaries
  - Selection Modes: Combine with existing selections
  - Edge Detection: Advanced edge detection algorithms
  - Selection Preview: Preview selection before applying
  - Selection Refinement: Refine selection edges
  - Selection Options: Advanced selection options
Paint Tools: Paintbrush (P), Pencil (N), Airbrush (A), Ink (K), MyPaint Brush (Y), Eraser (Shift+E), Smudge (S)
- Paintbrush Tool (P): Primary painting tool with various brush dynamics
  - Brush Selection: Choose from hundreds of available brushes
  - Brush Dynamics: Pressure, tilt, velocity, and random dynamics
  - Opacity Control: Control paint opacity and flow
  - Blend Modes: Various blending modes for creative effects
  - Brush Settings: Size, hardness, angle, spacing, and more
  - Custom Brushes: Create and save custom brush presets
  - Brush Preview: Preview brush stroke before painting
  - Brush History: Access recently used brushes
  - Brush Categories: Organize brushes by type and style
- Pencil Tool (N): Hard-edged painting without anti-aliasing
  - Hard Edges: No anti-aliasing for pixel-perfect painting
  - Pixel Art: Ideal for pixel art and retro graphics
  - Brush Dynamics: Pressure and tilt sensitivity
  - Opacity Control: Control paint opacity
  - Blend Modes: Various blending modes available
  - Brush Settings: Size, hardness, angle, spacing, and more
  - Custom Brushes: Create and save custom brush presets
  - Brush Preview: Preview brush stroke before painting
  - Brush History: Access recently used brushes
- Airbrush Tool (A): Soft painting with pressure sensitivity
  - Soft Painting: Natural, soft painting strokes
  - Pressure Sensitivity: Responds to tablet pressure
  - Flow Control: Control paint flow rate
  - Brush Dynamics: Pressure, tilt, and velocity sensitivity
  - Opacity Control: Control paint opacity
  - Blend Modes: Various blending modes available
  - Brush Settings: Size, hardness, angle, spacing, and more
  - Custom Brushes: Create and save custom brush presets
  - Brush Preview: Preview brush stroke before painting
- Ink Tool (K): Calligraphy-style painting with pen dynamics
  - Calligraphy Effects: Natural pen and brush effects
  - Pen Dynamics: Pressure, tilt, and velocity sensitivity
  - Angle Control: Control pen angle for different stroke styles
  - Opacity Control: Control ink opacity
  - Blend Modes: Various blending modes available
  - Brush Settings: Size, hardness, angle, spacing, and more
  - Custom Brushes: Create and save custom brush presets
  - Brush Preview: Preview brush stroke before painting
  - Brush History: Access recently used brushes
- MyPaint Brush Tool (Y): Advanced brush engine with natural media simulation
  - Natural Media: Simulate real-world painting media
  - Advanced Dynamics: Complex brush dynamics and behaviors
  - Brush Categories: Watercolor, oil, pencil, charcoal, and more
  - Custom Brushes: Create and share custom MyPaint brushes
  - Pressure Sensitivity: Full tablet pressure and tilt support
  - Brush Settings: Size, hardness, angle, spacing, and more
  - Brush Preview: Preview brush stroke before painting
  - Brush History: Access recently used brushes
  - Brush Categories: Organize brushes by type and style
- Eraser Tool (Shift+E): Removes pixels or makes them transparent
  - Eraser Modes: Erase to background color or transparency
  - Brush Selection: Choose eraser brush size and shape
  - Opacity Control: Control eraser strength
  - Hardness Control: Soft or hard eraser edges
  - Blend Modes: Various erasing modes available
  - Brush Settings: Size, hardness, angle, spacing, and more
  - Custom Brushes: Create and save custom brush presets
  - Brush Preview: Preview brush stroke before erasing
  - Brush History: Access recently used brushes
- Smudge Tool (S): Smudge and blend colors
  - Color Smudging: Smudge and blend colors
  - Brush Selection: Choose smudge brush size and shape
  - Opacity Control: Control smudge strength
  - Hardness Control: Soft or hard smudge edges
  - Blend Modes: Various smudging modes available
  - Brush Settings: Size, hardness, angle, spacing, and more
  - Custom Brushes: Create and save custom brush presets
  - Brush Preview: Preview brush stroke before smudging
  - Brush History: Access recently used brushes
Transform Tools: Move (M), Align (Q), Crop (Shift+C), Unified Transform (Shift+T), Handle Transform (H), Cage Transform (Shift+G)
- Move Tool (M): Move layers, selections, or paths
  - Layer Movement: Move entire layers
  - Selection Movement: Move only selected areas
  - Path Movement: Move vector paths
  - Snap to Grid: Automatic alignment with grid
  - Snap to Guides: Automatic alignment with guides
  - Move Constraints: Constrain movement to specific directions
  - Move Preview: Preview movement before applying
  - Move Options: Advanced movement options
  - Move Shortcuts: Keyboard shortcuts for movement
  - Move History: Track movement history
- Align Tool (Q): Align and distribute layers or objects
  - Alignment Options: Left, center, right, top, middle, bottom
  - Distribution Options: Evenly distribute objects
  - Relative Alignment: Align relative to selection or image
  - Multiple Objects: Align multiple layers or objects
  - Snap to Grid: Automatic alignment with grid
  - Alignment Preview: Preview alignment before applying
  - Alignment Options: Advanced alignment options
  - Alignment Shortcuts: Keyboard shortcuts for alignment
  - Alignment History: Track alignment history
- Crop Tool (Shift+C): Crop and resize images
  - Interactive Cropping: Drag to define crop area
  - Aspect Ratio: Maintain specific aspect ratios
  - Fixed Size: Crop to exact pixel dimensions
  - Crop Preview: See crop result before applying
  - Crop Options: Delete cropped pixels or keep them
  - Crop Constraints: Constrain crop to specific shapes
  - Crop Preview: Preview crop before applying
  - Crop Options: Advanced crop options
  - Crop Shortcuts: Keyboard shortcuts for cropping
  - Crop History: Track crop history
- Unified Transform Tool (Shift+T): Combines multiple transform operations
  - Multiple Transforms: Scale, rotate, shear, perspective
  - Transform Modes: Move, scale, rotate, shear, perspective
  - Transform Options: Configure transform behavior
  - Transform Preview: See transform result before applying
  - Transform Reset: Reset to original shape
  - Transform Constraints: Constrain transform to specific shapes
  - Transform Preview: Preview transform before applying
  - Transform Options: Advanced transform options
  - Transform Shortcuts: Keyboard shortcuts for transforms
  - Transform History: Track transform history
- Handle Transform Tool (H): Free-form deformation using control points
  - Control Points: Drag control points to deform objects
  - Smooth Deformation: Natural, smooth deformation
  - Multiple Points: Use multiple control points for complex deformations
  - Preview Mode: See deformation result before applying
  - Reset Option: Reset to original shape
  - Deformation Constraints: Constrain deformation to specific shapes
  - Deformation Preview: Preview deformation before applying
  - Deformation Options: Advanced deformation options
  - Deformation Shortcuts: Keyboard shortcuts for deformation
  - Deformation History: Track deformation history
- Cage Transform Tool (Shift+G): Mesh-based warping and deformation
  - Mesh Grid: Create mesh grid for deformation
  - Grid Points: Drag grid points to deform objects
  - Smooth Warping: Natural, smooth warping effects
  - Complex Deformations: Create complex, organic deformations
  - Preview Mode: See warping result before applying
  - Warping Constraints: Constrain warping to specific shapes
  - Warping Preview: Preview warping before applying
  - Warping Options: Advanced warping options
  - Warping Shortcuts: Keyboard shortcuts for warping
  - Warping History: Track warping history
Color Tools: Bucket Fill (Shift+B), Gradient (G), Color Picker (O)
- Bucket Fill Tool (Shift+B): Fill areas with solid color or patterns
  - Fill Modes: Fill with foreground color, background color, or pattern
  - Threshold Control: Adjust color similarity tolerance
  - Fill by: Fill by color similarity or by selection
  - Pattern Fill: Fill with custom patterns
  - Blend Modes: Various blending modes for fill effects
  - Fill Options: Advanced fill options
  - Fill Preview: Preview fill before applying
  - Fill Shortcuts: Keyboard shortcuts for filling
  - Fill History: Track fill history
- Gradient Tool (G): Create linear, radial, and other gradient fills
  - Gradient Types: Linear, radial, conical, spiral, and more
  - Gradient Selection: Choose from hundreds of available gradients
  - Custom Gradients: Create and save custom gradients
  - Gradient Editor: Advanced gradient editing capabilities
  - Blend Modes: Various blending modes for gradient effects
  - Gradient Options: Advanced gradient options
  - Gradient Preview: Preview gradient before applying
  - Gradient Shortcuts: Keyboard shortcuts for gradients
  - Gradient History: Track gradient history
- Color Picker Tool (O): Sample colors from the image
  - Color Sampling: Click to sample colors from image
  - Sample Size: Choose sampling area size (1x1, 3x3, 5x5, etc.)
  - Color Models: Sample in RGB, HSV, or other color models
  - Color History: Keep track of recently sampled colors
  - Color Information: Display detailed color information
  - Color Options: Advanced color options
  - Color Preview: Preview color before applying
  - Color Shortcuts: Keyboard shortcuts for color picking
  - Color History: Track color history
Text and Path Tools: Text (T), Path (B)
- Text Tool (T): Create and edit text layers
  - Text Input: Type and edit text directly on canvas
  - Font Selection: Choose from available system fonts
  - Text Formatting: Bold, italic, underline, and other formatting
  - Text Alignment: Left, center, right, and justify alignment
  - Text Effects: Apply various text effects and styles
  - Text Options: Advanced text options
  - Text Preview: Preview text before applying
  - Text Shortcuts: Keyboard shortcuts for text
  - Text History: Track text history
- Path Tool (B): Create and edit vector paths
  - Path Creation: Create vector paths with anchor points
  - Path Editing: Edit existing paths and anchor points
  - Path Operations: Combine, subtract, and intersect paths
  - Path to Selection: Convert paths to pixel selections
  - Selection to Path: Convert selections to vector paths
  - Path Options: Advanced path options
  - Path Preview: Preview path before applying
  - Path Shortcuts: Keyboard shortcuts for paths
  - Path History: Track path history
Additional Tools: Zoom (Z), Measure (Shift+M), Warp (Shift+W)
- Zoom Tool (Z): Magnify or reduce image view
  - Zoom In: Click to zoom in on specific area
  - Zoom Out: Shift+click to zoom out
  - Zoom Fit: Double-click to fit image to window
  - Zoom Actual: Double-click to show actual size
  - Zoom Options: Advanced zoom options
  - Zoom Preview: Preview zoom before applying
  - Zoom Shortcuts: Keyboard shortcuts for zooming
  - Zoom History: Track zoom history
- Measure Tool (Shift+M): Measure distances and angles
  - Distance Measurement: Measure distances between points
  - Angle Measurement: Measure angles between lines
  - Measurement Units: Choose measurement units
  - Measurement Options: Advanced measurement options
  - Measurement Preview: Preview measurement before applying
  - Measurement Shortcuts: Keyboard shortcuts for measuring
  - Measurement History: Track measurement history
- Warp Tool (Shift+W): Warp and distort image areas
  - Warp Distortion: Warp and distort image areas
  - Warp Options: Advanced warp options
  - Warp Preview: Preview warp before applying
  - Warp Shortcuts: Keyboard shortcuts for warping
  - Warp History: Track warp history

Dockable Dialogs: These can be arranged, grouped, and positioned according to your workflow:

Essential Dialogs: Layers (Ctrl+L), Channels (Ctrl+Ch), Paths (Ctrl+Shift+P), Undo History (Ctrl+Shift+H)
- Layers Dialog (Ctrl+L): Manage image layers and their properties
  - Layer Management: Create, delete, duplicate, and organize layers
    - Layer Creation: Create new layers with various options
      - New Layer: Create new empty layer
      - New Layer from Selection: Create layer from current selection
      - New Layer from Visible: Create layer from all visible layers
      - New Layer from Background: Create layer from background
      - New Layer from Clipboard: Create layer from clipboard content
      - New Layer from Image: Create layer from another image
      - New Layer from File: Create layer from file
      - New Layer from Web: Create layer from web image
      - New Layer from Scanner: Create layer from scanner
      - New Layer from Camera: Create layer from camera
    - Layer Deletion: Remove layers with various options
      - Delete Layer: Remove selected layer
      - Delete Layer Group: Remove entire layer group
      - Delete Hidden Layers: Remove all hidden layers
      - Delete Empty Layers: Remove all empty layers
      - Delete Duplicate Layers: Remove duplicate layers
      - Delete Layer Masks: Remove layer masks
      - Delete Layer Effects: Remove layer effects
      - Delete Layer Styles: Remove layer styles
      - Delete Layer Properties: Remove layer properties
    - Layer Duplication: Copy layers with various options
      - Duplicate Layer: Create exact copy of layer
      - Duplicate Layer Group: Create copy of layer group
      - Duplicate Layer with Mask: Copy layer including mask
      - Duplicate Layer with Effects: Copy layer including effects
      - Duplicate Layer with Styles: Copy layer including styles
      - Duplicate Layer with Properties: Copy layer including properties
      - Duplicate Layer to New Image: Copy layer to new image
      - Duplicate Layer to Clipboard: Copy layer to clipboard
      - Duplicate Layer to File: Copy layer to file
    - Layer Organization: Organize layers for better workflow
      - Layer Grouping: Group related layers together
      - Layer Nesting: Create nested layer groups
      - Layer Ordering: Arrange layers in specific order
      - Layer Naming: Give layers descriptive names
      - Layer Color Coding: Use colors to identify layers
      - Layer Tagging: Add tags to layers for organization
      - Layer Filtering: Filter layers by various criteria
      - Layer Searching: Search for specific layers
      - Layer Sorting: Sort layers by various criteria
  - Layer Properties: Control layer appearance and behavior
    - Layer Visibility: Show or hide layers
      - Eye Icon: Toggle layer visibility
      - Show All Layers: Make all layers visible
      - Hide All Layers: Make all layers invisible
      - Show Layer Group: Show entire layer group
      - Hide Layer Group: Hide entire layer group
      - Show Layer Masks: Show layer masks
      - Hide Layer Masks: Hide layer masks
      - Show Layer Effects: Show layer effects
      - Hide Layer Effects: Hide layer effects
      - Show Layer Styles: Show layer styles
      - Hide Layer Styles: Hide layer styles
    - Layer Opacity: Control layer transparency
      - Opacity Slider: Adjust layer opacity (0-100%)
      - Opacity Input: Enter exact opacity value
      - Opacity Presets: Quick access to common opacity values
      - Opacity Animation: Animate opacity changes
      - Opacity Keyframes: Set opacity keyframes
      - Opacity Curves: Use curves for opacity control
      - Opacity Masks: Use masks for opacity control
      - Opacity Effects: Apply opacity effects
      - Opacity Styles: Apply opacity styles
    - Blend Modes: Control how layers blend together
      - Normal: Standard layer blending
      - Multiply: Darken underlying layers
      - Screen: Lighten underlying layers
      - Overlay: Combine multiply and screen
      - Soft Light: Gentle lightening/darkening
      - Hard Light: Strong lightening/darkening
      - Color Dodge: Brighten underlying layers
      - Color Burn: Darken underlying layers
      - Darken: Keep darker pixels
      - Lighten: Keep lighter pixels
      - Difference: Subtract colors
      - Exclusion: Similar to difference but softer
      - Hue: Change hue only
      - Saturation: Change saturation only
      - Color: Change color only
      - Luminosity: Change brightness only
    - Layer Locking: Prevent accidental changes
      - Lock Position: Prevent layer movement
      - Lock Size: Prevent layer resizing
      - Lock Alpha: Prevent transparency changes
      - Lock All: Lock all layer properties
      - Unlock All: Unlock all layer properties
      - Lock Group: Lock entire layer group
      - Unlock Group: Unlock entire layer group
      - Lock Masks: Lock layer masks
      - Unlock Masks: Unlock layer masks
      - Lock Effects: Lock layer effects
      - Unlock Effects: Unlock layer effects
  - Layer Masks: Control layer visibility with masks
    - Mask Creation: Create various types of masks
      - White Mask: Show entire layer
      - Black Mask: Hide entire layer
      - Gray Mask: Partially hide layer
      - Selection Mask: Create mask from selection
      - Gradient Mask: Create gradient mask
      - Pattern Mask: Create pattern mask
      - Image Mask: Create mask from image
      - Text Mask: Create mask from text
      - Shape Mask: Create mask from shape
      - Custom Mask: Create custom mask
    - Mask Editing: Edit masks with various tools
      - Paint on Mask: Paint directly on mask
      - Erase on Mask: Erase parts of mask
      - Blur Mask: Blur mask edges
      - Sharpen Mask: Sharpen mask edges
      - Filter Mask: Apply filters to mask
      - Transform Mask: Transform mask
      - Rotate Mask: Rotate mask
      - Scale Mask: Scale mask
      - Flip Mask: Flip mask
      - Invert Mask: Invert mask
    - Mask Operations: Perform operations on masks
      - Add Mask: Add mask to layer
      - Subtract Mask: Subtract mask from layer
      - Intersect Mask: Intersect mask with layer
      - Union Mask: Union mask with layer
      - Difference Mask: Difference mask with layer
      - Apply Mask: Apply mask to layer
      - Delete Mask: Remove mask from layer
      - Duplicate Mask: Copy mask to another layer
      - Export Mask: Export mask to file
      - Import Mask: Import mask from file
- Channels Dialog (Ctrl+Ch): Manage color channels and selections
  - Color Channels: View and edit individual color channels
    - RGB Channels: Red, Green, Blue color channels
      - Red Channel: View and edit red channel
      - Green Channel: View and edit green channel
      - Blue Channel: View and edit blue channel
      - Channel Visibility: Show/hide individual channels
      - Channel Selection: Select specific channels
      - Channel Editing: Edit channel values
      - Channel Filters: Apply filters to channels
      - Channel Effects: Apply effects to channels
      - Channel Styles: Apply styles to channels
      - Channel Masks: Use channels as masks
      - Channel Operations: Perform operations on channels
    - CMYK Channels: Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, Black channels
      - Cyan Channel: View and edit cyan channel
      - Magenta Channel: View and edit magenta channel
      - Yellow Channel: View and edit yellow channel
      - Black Channel: View and edit black channel
      - Channel Visibility: Show/hide individual channels
      - Channel Selection: Select specific channels
      - Channel Editing: Edit channel values
      - Channel Filters: Apply filters to channels
      - Channel Effects: Apply effects to channels
      - Channel Styles: Apply styles to channels
      - Channel Masks: Use channels as masks
      - Channel Operations: Perform operations on channels
    - Alpha Channel: Transparency information
      - Alpha Visibility: Show/hide alpha channel
      - Alpha Selection: Select alpha channel
      - Alpha Editing: Edit alpha values
      - Alpha Filters: Apply filters to alpha
      - Alpha Effects: Apply effects to alpha
      - Alpha Styles: Apply styles to alpha
      - Alpha Masks: Use alpha as mask
      - Alpha Operations: Perform operations on alpha
      - Alpha Export: Export alpha to file
      - Alpha Import: Import alpha from file
  - Channel Operations: Perform operations on channels
    - Channel to Selection: Convert channel to selection
      - Load Channel: Load channel as selection
      - Add to Selection: Add channel to existing selection
      - Subtract from Selection: Subtract channel from selection
      - Intersect with Selection: Intersect channel with selection
      - Replace Selection: Replace selection with channel
      - Channel Preview: Preview channel as selection
      - Channel Threshold: Set threshold for channel
      - Channel Invert: Invert channel before loading
      - Channel Feather: Feather channel edges
      - Channel Smooth: Smooth channel edges
    - Selection to Channel: Convert selection to channel
      - Save Selection: Save selection as channel
      - Add to Channel: Add selection to existing channel
      - Subtract from Channel: Subtract selection from channel
      - Intersect with Channel: Intersect selection with channel
      - Replace Channel: Replace channel with selection
      - Selection Preview: Preview selection as channel
      - Selection Threshold: Set threshold for selection
      - Selection Invert: Invert selection before saving
      - Selection Feather: Feather selection edges
      - Selection Smooth: Smooth selection edges
- Paths Dialog (Ctrl+Shift+P): Create and manage vector paths
  - Path Creation: Create various types of paths
    - Bezier Paths: Create smooth curved paths
      - Anchor Points: Add and edit anchor points
      - Control Handles: Adjust curve control handles
      - Path Segments: Create and edit path segments
      - Path Curves: Create smooth curves
      - Path Lines: Create straight lines
      - Path Arcs: Create arc segments
      - Path Spirals: Create spiral paths
      - Path Circles: Create circular paths
      - Path Rectangles: Create rectangular paths
      - Path Polygons: Create polygonal paths
    - Text Paths: Create paths from text
      - Text to Path: Convert text to vector path
      - Text Outline: Create text outline path
      - Text Fill: Create text fill path
      - Text Stroke: Create text stroke path
      - Text Effects: Apply effects to text paths
      - Text Styles: Apply styles to text paths
      - Text Masks: Use text as path mask
      - Text Operations: Perform operations on text paths
      - Text Export: Export text paths
      - Text Import: Import text paths
    - Shape Paths: Create paths from shapes
      - Rectangle Path: Create rectangular path
      - Ellipse Path: Create elliptical path
      - Polygon Path: Create polygonal path
      - Star Path: Create star-shaped path
      - Heart Path: Create heart-shaped path
      - Custom Shape Path: Create custom shape path
      - Shape Effects: Apply effects to shape paths
      - Shape Styles: Apply styles to shape paths
      - Shape Masks: Use shapes as path masks
      - Shape Operations: Perform operations on shape paths
  - Path Editing: Edit existing paths
    - Path Selection: Select and manipulate paths
      - Path Selection Tool: Select entire paths
      - Direct Selection Tool: Select individual points
      - Path Segment Tool: Select path segments
      - Path Point Tool: Select anchor points
      - Path Handle Tool: Select control handles
      - Path Group Tool: Select path groups
      - Path Layer Tool: Select path layers
      - Path Object Tool: Select path objects
      - Path Element Tool: Select path elements
      - Path Component Tool: Select path components
    - Path Modification: Modify path properties
      - Move Path: Move entire path
      - Rotate Path: Rotate path around point
      - Scale Path: Scale path proportionally
      - Skew Path: Skew path horizontally/vertically
      - Flip Path: Flip path horizontally/vertically
      - Transform Path: Apply complex transformations
      - Path Effects: Apply effects to paths
      - Path Styles: Apply styles to paths
      - Path Masks: Use paths as masks
      - Path Operations: Perform operations on paths
  - Path Operations: Perform operations on paths
    - Path to Selection: Convert paths to selections
      - Load Path: Load path as selection
      - Add to Selection: Add path to existing selection
      - Subtract from Selection: Subtract path from selection
      - Intersect with Selection: Intersect path with selection
      - Replace Selection: Replace selection with path
      - Path Preview: Preview path as selection
      - Path Threshold: Set threshold for path
      - Path Invert: Invert path before loading
      - Path Feather: Feather path edges
      - Path Smooth: Smooth path edges
    - Selection to Path: Convert selections to paths
      - Save Selection: Save selection as path
      - Add to Path: Add selection to existing path
      - Subtract from Path: Subtract selection from path
      - Intersect with Path: Intersect selection with path
      - Replace Path: Replace path with selection
      - Selection Preview: Preview selection as path
      - Selection Threshold: Set threshold for selection
      - Selection Invert: Invert selection before saving
      - Selection Feather: Feather selection edges
      - Selection Smooth: Smooth selection edges
- Undo History (Ctrl+Shift+H): Track and manage edit history
  - History Timeline: View chronological edit history
    - History Entries: Individual edit operations
      - Operation Names: Descriptive names for operations
      - Operation Timestamps: When operations were performed
      - Operation Duration: How long operations took
      - Operation Memory: Memory usage for operations
      - Operation Size: Size of operations
      - Operation Type: Type of operation performed
      - Operation Parameters: Parameters used in operations
      - Operation Results: Results of operations
      - Operation Dependencies: Dependencies between operations
      - Operation Conflicts: Conflicts between operations
    - History Navigation: Navigate through edit history
      - History Backward: Move backward in history
      - History Forward: Move forward in history
      - History Jump: Jump to specific history point
      - History Search: Search for specific operations
      - History Filter: Filter history by operation type
      - History Sort: Sort history by various criteria
      - History Group: Group related operations
      - History Collapse: Collapse history groups
      - History Expand: Expand history groups
      - History Preview: Preview history operations
  - History Management: Manage edit history
    - History Cleanup: Remove unnecessary history entries
      - Clear History: Clear entire history
      - Clear Old History: Clear old history entries
      - Clear Duplicate History: Remove duplicate entries
      - Clear Empty History: Remove empty entries
      - Clear Failed History: Remove failed operations
      - Clear Redundant History: Remove redundant operations
      - Clear Temporary History: Remove temporary operations
      - Clear Test History: Remove test operations
      - Clear Debug History: Remove debug operations
      - Clear Unused History: Remove unused operations
    - History Export: Export history for backup
      - Export History: Export entire history
      - Export History Range: Export specific history range
      - Export History Selection: Export selected history
      - Export History Filter: Export filtered history
      - Export History Format: Choose export format
      - Export History Compression: Compress exported history
      - Export History Encryption: Encrypt exported history
      - Export History Metadata: Include metadata in export
      - Export History Timestamps: Include timestamps in export
      - Export History Dependencies: Include dependencies in export
Resource Dialogs: Brushes (Ctrl+Shift+B), Patterns (Ctrl+Shift+P), Gradients (Ctrl+Shift+G), Palettes (Ctrl+Shift+P)
- Brushes Dialog (Ctrl+Shift+B): Manage brush resources
  - Brush Categories: Organize brushes by type and style
    - Basic Brushes: Fundamental brush types
      - Round Brushes: Circular brushes of various sizes
      - Square Brushes: Square brushes of various sizes
      - Diamond Brushes: Diamond-shaped brushes
      - Star Brushes: Star-shaped brushes
      - Heart Brushes: Heart-shaped brushes
      - Custom Shape Brushes: Custom-shaped brushes
      - Textured Brushes: Brushes with texture patterns
      - Gradient Brushes: Brushes with gradient effects
      - Pattern Brushes: Brushes with pattern effects
      - Effect Brushes: Brushes with special effects
    - Artistic Brushes: Creative and artistic brush types
      - Watercolor Brushes: Simulate watercolor painting
      - Oil Brushes: Simulate oil painting
      - Pencil Brushes: Simulate pencil drawing
      - Charcoal Brushes: Simulate charcoal drawing
      - Pastel Brushes: Simulate pastel drawing
      - Marker Brushes: Simulate marker drawing
      - Ink Brushes: Simulate ink drawing
      - Calligraphy Brushes: Simulate calligraphy
      - Decorative Brushes: Decorative and ornamental brushes
      - Special Effect Brushes: Brushes with special effects
    - Technical Brushes: Technical and precision brushes
      - Line Brushes: Create straight lines
      - Curve Brushes: Create curved lines
      - Arrow Brushes: Create arrows and pointers
      - Symbol Brushes: Create symbols and icons
      - Technical Brushes: Technical drawing brushes
      - Architectural Brushes: Architectural drawing brushes
      - Engineering Brushes: Engineering drawing brushes
      - Scientific Brushes: Scientific drawing brushes
      - Medical Brushes: Medical drawing brushes
      - Legal Brushes: Legal drawing brushes
  - Brush Properties: Control brush appearance and behavior
    - Brush Size: Control brush size and scaling
      - Size Slider: Adjust brush size with slider
      - Size Input: Enter exact brush size
      - Size Presets: Quick access to common sizes
      - Size Animation: Animate brush size changes
      - Size Keyframes: Set size keyframes
      - Size Curves: Use curves for size control
      - Size Masks: Use masks for size control
      - Size Effects: Apply size effects
      - Size Styles: Apply size styles
      - Size Constraints: Constrain size changes
    - Brush Hardness: Control brush edge softness
      - Hardness Slider: Adjust brush hardness
      - Hardness Input: Enter exact hardness value
      - Hardness Presets: Quick access to common hardness values
      - Hardness Animation: Animate hardness changes
      - Hardness Keyframes: Set hardness keyframes
      - Hardness Curves: Use curves for hardness control
      - Hardness Masks: Use masks for hardness control
      - Hardness Effects: Apply hardness effects
      - Hardness Styles: Apply hardness styles
      - Hardness Constraints: Constrain hardness changes
    - Brush Spacing: Control brush stroke spacing
      - Spacing Slider: Adjust brush spacing
      - Spacing Input: Enter exact spacing value
      - Spacing Presets: Quick access to common spacing values
      - Spacing Animation: Animate spacing changes
      - Spacing Keyframes: Set spacing keyframes
      - Spacing Curves: Use curves for spacing control
      - Spacing Masks: Use masks for spacing control
      - Spacing Effects: Apply spacing effects
      - Spacing Styles: Apply spacing styles
      - Spacing Constraints: Constrain spacing changes
- Patterns Dialog (Ctrl+Shift+P): Manage pattern resources
  - Pattern Categories: Organize patterns by type and style
    - Basic Patterns: Fundamental pattern types
      - Geometric Patterns: Geometric and mathematical patterns
      - Organic Patterns: Natural and organic patterns
      - Abstract Patterns: Abstract and artistic patterns
      - Textured Patterns: Patterns with texture effects
      - Gradient Patterns: Patterns with gradient effects
      - Color Patterns: Patterns with color variations
      - Monochrome Patterns: Black and white patterns
      - Multicolor Patterns: Multi-color patterns
      - Transparent Patterns: Patterns with transparency
      - Opaque Patterns: Solid patterns
    - Artistic Patterns: Creative and artistic patterns
      - Watercolor Patterns: Simulate watercolor effects
      - Oil Patterns: Simulate oil painting effects
      - Pencil Patterns: Simulate pencil drawing effects
      - Charcoal Patterns: Simulate charcoal drawing effects
      - Pastel Patterns: Simulate pastel drawing effects
      - Marker Patterns: Simulate marker drawing effects
      - Ink Patterns: Simulate ink drawing effects
      - Calligraphy Patterns: Simulate calligraphy effects
      - Decorative Patterns: Decorative and ornamental patterns
      - Special Effect Patterns: Patterns with special effects
    - Technical Patterns: Technical and precision patterns
      - Line Patterns: Create line-based patterns
      - Curve Patterns: Create curve-based patterns
      - Arrow Patterns: Create arrow and pointer patterns
      - Symbol Patterns: Create symbol and icon patterns
      - Technical Patterns: Technical drawing patterns
      - Architectural Patterns: Architectural drawing patterns
      - Engineering Patterns: Engineering drawing patterns
      - Scientific Patterns: Scientific drawing patterns
      - Medical Patterns: Medical drawing patterns
      - Legal Patterns: Legal drawing patterns
  - Pattern Properties: Control pattern appearance and behavior
    - Pattern Size: Control pattern size and scaling
      - Size Slider: Adjust pattern size with slider
      - Size Input: Enter exact pattern size
      - Size Presets: Quick access to common sizes
      - Size Animation: Animate pattern size changes
      - Size Keyframes: Set size keyframes
      - Size Curves: Use curves for size control
      - Size Masks: Use masks for size control
      - Size Effects: Apply size effects
      - Size Styles: Apply size styles
      - Size Constraints: Constrain size changes
    - Pattern Rotation: Control pattern rotation
      - Rotation Slider: Adjust pattern rotation
      - Rotation Input: Enter exact rotation angle
      - Rotation Presets: Quick access to common angles
      - Rotation Animation: Animate rotation changes
      - Rotation Keyframes: Set rotation keyframes
      - Rotation Curves: Use curves for rotation control
      - Rotation Masks: Use masks for rotation control
      - Rotation Effects: Apply rotation effects
      - Rotation Styles: Apply rotation styles
      - Rotation Constraints: Constrain rotation changes
    - Pattern Offset: Control pattern positioning
      - Offset Slider: Adjust pattern offset
      - Offset Input: Enter exact offset values
      - Offset Presets: Quick access to common offsets
      - Offset Animation: Animate offset changes
      - Offset Keyframes: Set offset keyframes
      - Offset Curves: Use curves for offset control
      - Offset Masks: Use masks for offset control
      - Offset Effects: Apply offset effects
      - Offset Styles: Apply offset styles
      - Offset Constraints: Constrain offset changes
- Gradients Dialog (Ctrl+Shift+G): Manage gradient resources
  - Gradient Categories: Organize gradients by type and style
    - Basic Gradients: Fundamental gradient types
      - Linear Gradients: Straight-line gradients
      - Horizontal Gradients: Left-to-right gradients
      - Vertical Gradients: Top-to-bottom gradients
      - Diagonal Gradients: Diagonal gradients
      - Angled Gradients: Custom angle gradients
      - Radial Gradients: Circular gradients
      - Conical Gradients: Spiral gradients
      - Spiral Gradients: Spiral gradients
      - Square Gradients: Square gradients
      - Diamond Gradients: Diamond gradients
    - Color Gradients: Gradients with color variations
      - Rainbow Gradients: Full spectrum gradients
      - Warm Gradients: Warm color gradients
      - Cool Gradients: Cool color gradients
      - Neutral Gradients: Neutral color gradients
      - Monochromatic Gradients: Single color gradients
      - Complementary Gradients: Complementary color gradients
      - Triadic Gradients: Triadic color gradients
      - Analogous Gradients: Analogous color gradients
      - Custom Color Gradients: Custom color combinations
      - Special Effect Gradients: Gradients with special effects
    - Artistic Gradients: Creative and artistic gradients
      - Watercolor Gradients: Simulate watercolor effects
      - Oil Gradients: Simulate oil painting effects
      - Pencil Gradients: Simulate pencil drawing effects
      - Charcoal Gradients: Simulate charcoal drawing effects
      - Pastel Gradients: Simulate pastel drawing effects
      - Marker Gradients: Simulate marker drawing effects
      - Ink Gradients: Simulate ink drawing effects
      - Calligraphy Gradients: Simulate calligraphy effects
      - Decorative Gradients: Decorative and ornamental gradients
      - Special Effect Gradients: Gradients with special effects
  - Gradient Properties: Control gradient appearance and behavior
    - Gradient Direction: Control gradient direction
      - Direction Slider: Adjust gradient direction
      - Direction Input: Enter exact direction angle
      - Direction Presets: Quick access to common directions
      - Direction Animation: Animate direction changes
      - Direction Keyframes: Set direction keyframes
      - Direction Curves: Use curves for direction control
      - Direction Masks: Use masks for direction control
      - Direction Effects: Apply direction effects
      - Direction Styles: Apply direction styles
      - Direction Constraints: Constrain direction changes
    - Gradient Scale: Control gradient size and scaling
      - Scale Slider: Adjust gradient scale
      - Scale Input: Enter exact scale value
      - Scale Presets: Quick access to common scales
      - Scale Animation: Animate scale changes
      - Scale Keyframes: Set scale keyframes
      - Scale Curves: Use curves for scale control
      - Scale Masks: Use masks for scale control
      - Scale Effects: Apply scale effects
      - Scale Styles: Apply scale styles
      - Scale Constraints: Constrain scale changes
    - Gradient Opacity: Control gradient transparency
      - Opacity Slider: Adjust gradient opacity
      - Opacity Input: Enter exact opacity value
      - Opacity Presets: Quick access to common opacity values
      - Opacity Animation: Animate opacity changes
      - Opacity Keyframes: Set opacity keyframes
      - Opacity Curves: Use curves for opacity control
      - Opacity Masks: Use masks for opacity control
      - Opacity Effects: Apply opacity effects
      - Opacity Styles: Apply opacity styles
      - Opacity Constraints: Constrain opacity changes
- Palettes Dialog (Ctrl+Shift+P): Manage color palette resources
  - Palette Categories: Organize palettes by type and style
    - Basic Palettes: Fundamental color palettes
      - RGB Palettes: Red, Green, Blue color palettes
      - CMYK Palettes: Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, Black palettes
      - HSV Palettes: Hue, Saturation, Value palettes
      - HSL Palettes: Hue, Saturation, Lightness palettes
      - LAB Palettes: LAB color space palettes
      - XYZ Palettes: XYZ color space palettes
      - Grayscale Palettes: Grayscale color palettes
      - Monochrome Palettes: Single color palettes
      - Custom Palettes: Custom color combinations
      - Special Effect Palettes: Palettes with special effects
    - Artistic Palettes: Creative and artistic palettes
      - Watercolor Palettes: Simulate watercolor color schemes
      - Oil Palettes: Simulate oil painting color schemes
      - Pencil Palettes: Simulate pencil drawing color schemes
      - Charcoal Palettes: Simulate charcoal drawing color schemes
      - Pastel Palettes: Simulate pastel drawing color schemes
      - Marker Palettes: Simulate marker drawing color schemes
      - Ink Palettes: Simulate ink drawing color schemes
      - Calligraphy Palettes: Simulate calligraphy color schemes
      - Decorative Palettes: Decorative and ornamental palettes
      - Special Effect Palettes: Palettes with special effects
    - Technical Palettes: Technical and precision palettes
      - Line Palettes: Create line-based color schemes
      - Curve Palettes: Create curve-based color schemes
      - Arrow Palettes: Create arrow and pointer color schemes
      - Symbol Palettes: Create symbol and icon color schemes
      - Technical Palettes: Technical drawing color schemes
      - Architectural Palettes: Architectural drawing color schemes
      - Engineering Palettes: Engineering drawing color schemes
      - Scientific Palettes: Scientific drawing color schemes
      - Medical Palettes: Medical drawing color schemes
      - Legal Palettes: Legal drawing color schemes
  - Palette Properties: Control palette appearance and behavior
    - Palette Size: Control palette size and scaling
      - Size Slider: Adjust palette size with slider
      - Size Input: Enter exact palette size
      - Size Presets: Quick access to common sizes
      - Size Animation: Animate palette size changes
      - Size Keyframes: Set size keyframes
      - Size Curves: Use curves for size control
      - Size Masks: Use masks for size control
      - Size Effects: Apply size effects
      - Size Styles: Apply size styles
      - Size Constraints: Constrain size changes
    - Palette Colors: Control palette color selection
      - Color Slider: Adjust palette colors with slider
      - Color Input: Enter exact color values
      - Color Presets: Quick access to common colors
      - Color Animation: Animate color changes
      - Color Keyframes: Set color keyframes
      - Color Curves: Use curves for color control
      - Color Masks: Use masks for color control
      - Color Effects: Apply color effects
      - Color Styles: Apply color styles
      - Color Constraints: Constrain color changes
    - Palette Organization: Control palette organization
      - Organization Slider: Adjust palette organization
      - Organization Input: Enter exact organization values
      - Organization Presets: Quick access to common organizations
      - Organization Animation: Animate organization changes
      - Organization Keyframes: Set organization keyframes
      - Organization Curves: Use curves for organization control
      - Organization Masks: Use masks for organization control
      - Organization Effects: Apply organization effects
      - Organization Styles: Apply organization styles
      - Organization Constraints: Constrain organization changes
Tool Dialogs: Tool Options (Ctrl+Shift+T), Color Editor (Ctrl+E), Navigation (Ctrl+Shift+N)
- Tool Options Dialog (Ctrl+Shift+T): Configure tool-specific settings
  - Tool Configuration: Configure individual tool settings
    - Tool Selection: Choose active tool
      - Tool Categories: Organize tools by category
      - Tool Search: Search for specific tools
      - Tool Favorites: Mark frequently used tools
      - Tool History: Access recently used tools
      - Tool Presets: Save and load tool presets
      - Tool Shortcuts: Set keyboard shortcuts for tools
      - Tool Help: Access tool help and documentation
      - Tool Tips: Display tool tips and hints
      - Tool Examples: Show tool usage examples
      - Tool Tutorials: Access tool tutorials
    - Tool Settings: Configure tool-specific options
      - Settings Categories: Organize settings by category
      - Settings Search: Search for specific settings
      - Settings Favorites: Mark frequently used settings
      - Settings History: Access recently used settings
      - Settings Presets: Save and load setting presets
      - Settings Shortcuts: Set keyboard shortcuts for settings
      - Settings Help: Access settings help and documentation
      - Settings Tips: Display settings tips and hints
      - Settings Examples: Show settings usage examples
      - Settings Tutorials: Access settings tutorials
    - Tool Behavior: Control tool behavior and response
      - Behavior Categories: Organize behavior by category
      - Behavior Search: Search for specific behaviors
      - Behavior Favorites: Mark frequently used behaviors
      - Behavior History: Access recently used behaviors
      - Behavior Presets: Save and load behavior presets
      - Behavior Shortcuts: Set keyboard shortcuts for behaviors
      - Behavior Help: Access behavior help and documentation
      - Behavior Tips: Display behavior tips and hints
      - Behavior Examples: Show behavior usage examples
      - Behavior Tutorials: Access behavior tutorials
  - Tool Preview: Preview tool effects before applying
    - Preview Modes: Choose preview display mode
      - Real-time Preview: Show effects in real-time
      - On-demand Preview: Show effects when requested
      - Preview Quality: Control preview quality
      - Preview Speed: Control preview speed
      - Preview Memory: Control preview memory usage
      - Preview Caching: Cache preview results
      - Preview Compression: Compress preview data
      - Preview Encryption: Encrypt preview data
      - Preview Backup: Backup preview data
      - Preview Restore: Restore preview data
    - Preview Controls: Control preview behavior
      - Preview Start: Start preview generation
      - Preview Stop: Stop preview generation
      - Preview Pause: Pause preview generation
      - Preview Resume: Resume preview generation
      - Preview Reset: Reset preview to default
      - Preview Clear: Clear preview data
      - Preview Save: Save preview data
      - Preview Load: Load preview data
      - Preview Export: Export preview data
      - Preview Import: Import preview data
- Color Editor Dialog (Ctrl+E): Advanced color selection and editing
  - Color Models: Choose color representation
    - RGB Model: Red, Green, Blue color model
      - RGB Values: Set exact RGB values
      - RGB Sliders: Adjust RGB with sliders
      - RGB Input: Enter RGB values directly
      - RGB Presets: Quick access to common RGB values
      - RGB Animation: Animate RGB changes
      - RGB Keyframes: Set RGB keyframes
      - RGB Curves: Use curves for RGB control
      - RGB Masks: Use masks for RGB control
      - RGB Effects: Apply RGB effects
      - RGB Styles: Apply RGB styles
      - RGB Constraints: Constrain RGB changes
    - HSV Model: Hue, Saturation, Value color model
      - HSV Values: Set exact HSV values
      - HSV Sliders: Adjust HSV with sliders
      - HSV Input: Enter HSV values directly
      - HSV Presets: Quick access to common HSV values
      - HSV Animation: Animate HSV changes
      - HSV Keyframes: Set HSV keyframes
      - HSV Curves: Use curves for HSV control
      - HSV Masks: Use masks for HSV control
      - HSV Effects: Apply HSV effects
      - HSV Styles: Apply HSV styles
      - HSV Constraints: Constrain HSV changes
    - CMYK Model: Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, Black color model
      - CMYK Values: Set exact CMYK values
      - CMYK Sliders: Adjust CMYK with sliders
      - CMYK Input: Enter CMYK values directly
      - CMYK Presets: Quick access to common CMYK values
      - CMYK Animation: Animate CMYK changes
      - CMYK Keyframes: Set CMYK keyframes
      - CMYK Curves: Use curves for CMYK control
      - CMYK Masks: Use masks for CMYK control
      - CMYK Effects: Apply CMYK effects
      - CMYK Styles: Apply CMYK styles
      - CMYK Constraints: Constrain CMYK changes
  - Color Selection: Choose colors from various sources
    - Color Wheel: Interactive color wheel selection
      - Wheel Types: Choose wheel type and style
      - Wheel Size: Adjust wheel size
      - Wheel Position: Position wheel on screen
      - Wheel Rotation: Rotate wheel for different views
      - Wheel Zoom: Zoom in/out on wheel
      - Wheel Pan: Pan around wheel
      - Wheel Reset: Reset wheel to default
      - Wheel Presets: Save and load wheel presets
      - Wheel Shortcuts: Keyboard shortcuts for wheel
      - Wheel Help: Access wheel help and documentation
    - Color Sliders: Precise color value adjustment
      - Slider Types: Choose slider type and style
      - Slider Size: Adjust slider size
      - Slider Position: Position sliders on screen
      - Slider Orientation: Orient sliders horizontally/vertically
      - Slider Range: Set slider value ranges
      - Slider Precision: Set slider precision
      - Slider Reset: Reset sliders to default
      - Slider Presets: Save and load slider presets
      - Slider Shortcuts: Keyboard shortcuts for sliders
      - Slider Help: Access slider help and documentation
    - Color Palettes: Choose from predefined color palettes
      - Palette Types: Choose palette type and style
      - Palette Size: Adjust palette size
      - Palette Position: Position palette on screen
      - Palette Layout: Choose palette layout
      - Palette Colors: Set palette colors
      - Palette Organization: Organize palette colors
      - Palette Reset: Reset palette to default
      - Palette Presets: Save and load palette presets
      - Palette Shortcuts: Keyboard shortcuts for palettes
      - Palette Help: Access palette help and documentation
- Navigation Dialog (Ctrl+Shift+N): Navigate and view images
  - Image Navigation: Navigate through image content
    - Zoom Controls: Control image zoom level
      - Zoom In: Increase zoom level
      - Zoom Out: Decrease zoom level
      - Zoom Fit: Fit image to window
      - Zoom Actual: Show actual image size
      - Zoom Selection: Zoom to fit selection
      - Zoom All: Show entire image
      - Zoom Custom: Set custom zoom level
      - Zoom Presets: Quick access to common zoom levels
      - Zoom Animation: Animate zoom changes
      - Zoom Keyframes: Set zoom keyframes
    - Pan Controls: Control image panning
      - Pan Left: Pan image left
      - Pan Right: Pan image right
      - Pan Up: Pan image up
      - Pan Down: Pan image down
      - Pan Center: Center image in view
      - Pan Selection: Pan to selection
      - Pan Custom: Set custom pan position
      - Pan Presets: Quick access to common pan positions
      - Pan Animation: Animate pan changes
      - Pan Keyframes: Set pan keyframes
    - View Controls: Control image viewing
      - View Modes: Choose view display mode
      - View Quality: Control view quality
      - View Speed: Control view speed
      - View Memory: Control view memory usage
      - View Caching: Cache view results
      - View Compression: Compress view data
      - View Encryption: Encrypt view data
      - View Backup: Backup view data
      - View Restore: Restore view data
      - View Export: Export view data
Advanced Dialogs: Filters (Ctrl+F), Scripts (Ctrl+Shift+F), Plug-ins, Python Console, Script-Fu Console
Information Dialogs: Histogram (Ctrl+H), Sample Points (Ctrl+Shift+S), Device Status, Error Console

Workspace Customization

GIMP allows extensive customization of the workspace:

Dock Management: Dialogs can be docked, undocked, or grouped together

Docking Process: Drag dialog to dock area (highlighted in blue) to dock
Undocking Process: Drag dialog away from dock to make it floating
Dock Areas: Left, right, bottom docks with visual indicators
Grouping Dialogs: Drag one dialog onto another to create groups
Nested Groups: Create complex dialog hierarchies for organization

Tab Organization: Multiple dialogs can share the same dock space using tabs

Creating Tabs: Drag dialog onto another to create tabbed interface
Tab Navigation: Click tab headers or use Ctrl+Tab to cycle through tabs
Tab Management: Reorder tabs by dragging, close with X button
Tab Styles: Choose between different tab appearance options
Tab Context Menu: Right-click tabs for additional options

Positioning: Dialogs can be positioned anywhere on screen

Floating Windows: Undocked dialogs become independent windows
Multi-Monitor Support: Position dialogs on different screens
Snap to Edges: Automatic alignment with screen edges
Always on Top: Keep important dialogs visible above other applications
Window Management: Minimize, maximize, or resize dialog windows

Saving Layouts: Custom workspace layouts can be saved and restored

Save Current Layout: Windows > Workspace > Save Current Layout
Load Saved Layout: Windows > Workspace > Load Saved Layout
Default Layout: Set current layout as default for new sessions
Layout Management: Rename, delete, or duplicate saved layouts
Layout Export: Export layouts to share with others

Theme Selection: Different visual themes and icon sets are available

Interface Themes: Light, dark, high contrast, and custom themes
Icon Sets: Default, legacy, symbolic, and custom icon sets
Theme Customization: Modify colors, fonts, and visual elements
Accessibility Themes: Enhanced visibility and contrast options
Performance Themes: Lightweight themes for better performance

Single-Window vs Multi-Window Mode

GIMP offers two distinct interface modes, each with specific advantages for different workflows and user preferences.

Single-Window Mode

Single-Window Mode (the default in modern GIMP versions) consolidates all interface elements into one unified window. This mode is ideal for:

Advantages:

Unified Interface: All tools and dialogs are contained within one main window
Taskbar Efficiency: Only one entry appears in your operating system's taskbar
Monitor Optimization: Perfect for single-monitor setups
Reduced Clutter: Cleaner desktop with fewer floating windows
Modern Workflow: Matches the interface style of contemporary applications

Best For:

Users with single monitors
Those who prefer a consolidated workspace
Beginners learning GIMP
Laptop users with limited screen space

Multi-Window Mode

Multi-Window Mode separates GIMP into independent windows, providing maximum flexibility for workspace arrangement.

Advantages:

Multi-Monitor Support: Dialogs can be spread across multiple screens
Flexible Positioning: Each dialog can be positioned independently
Custom Arrangements: Create unique workspace layouts
Legacy Compatibility: Familiar to users of older GIMP versions
Specialized Workflows: Ideal for specific professional workflows

Best For:

Users with multiple monitors
Professional workflows requiring specific dialog arrangements
Users transitioning from older GIMP versions
Workflows that benefit from having tools in specific screen locations

Switching Between Modes

You can switch between modes at any time:

To Single-Window Mode: Go to Windows > Single-Window Mode
To Multi-Window Mode: Go to Windows > Multi-Window Mode

Important Notes:

Your current workspace layout will be preserved when switching modes
Some dialogs may need to be repositioned after switching
Custom workspace layouts are saved separately for each mode
The mode preference is remembered between GIMP sessions

Choosing the Right Mode

Choose Single-Window Mode if:

You have one monitor
You prefer a unified interface
You're new to GIMP
You want a cleaner desktop

Choose Multi-Window Mode if:

You have multiple monitors
You need specific dialog arrangements
You're used to older GIMP versions
Your workflow benefits from independent dialog positioning

Toolbox Overview and Primary Tools

The GIMP Toolbox is the heart of your editing workflow, containing all the essential tools organized into logical groups. Understanding the toolbox layout and tool categories will significantly improve your efficiency.

Toolbox Layout

The toolbox is typically positioned on the left side of the interface and contains:

Tool Icons: Each tool is represented by an icon that indicates its function Tool Groups: Tools are organized into related categories Active Tool Indicator: The currently selected tool is highlighted Tool Options: Settings for the active tool appear in the Tool Options dialog

Primary Tool Categories

Selection Tools (First Row):

Rectangle Select Tool (R): Creates rectangular selections
- Fixed Aspect Ratio: Maintain specific width/height ratios
- Fixed Size: Create selections of exact pixel dimensions
- Rounded Corners: Add rounded corners to rectangular selections
- Selection Modes: Add, subtract, intersect, or replace selections
- Feathering: Soften selection edges for smooth blending
- Anti-aliasing: Smooth selection edges for better quality
Ellipse Select Tool (E): Creates elliptical and circular selections
- Perfect Circle: Hold Shift for perfect circular selections
- Center Point: Start selection from center point
- Fixed Aspect Ratio: Maintain elliptical proportions
- Selection Modes: Combine with existing selections
- Feathering: Apply edge softening for natural blending
Free Select Tool (F): Creates freehand and polygonal selections
- Freehand Mode: Draw selection outline by hand
- Polygonal Mode: Create selection with straight line segments
- Magnetic Mode: Automatically snap to edges (when available)
- Selection Modes: Add, subtract, or intersect with existing selections
- Smooth Curves: Convert polygonal selections to smooth curves
Fuzzy Select Tool (U): Selects areas of similar color (Magic Wand)
- Threshold Control: Adjust color similarity tolerance
- Sample Merged: Consider all visible layers when sampling
- Contiguous: Select only connected areas of similar color
- Selection Modes: Combine with existing selections
- Anti-aliasing: Smooth selection edges
Select by Color Tool (Shift+O): Selects all pixels of a specific color
- Global Selection: Select all pixels of chosen color in image
- Threshold Control: Adjust color similarity tolerance
- Sample Merged: Consider all visible layers
- Selection Modes: Combine with existing selections
- Anti-aliasing: Smooth selection edges
Scissors Select Tool (I): Intelligent edge detection for selections
- Edge Detection: Automatically detect and follow edges
- Interactive Refinement: Manually adjust edge detection
- Smooth Curves: Convert to smooth curves for better results
- Selection Modes: Combine with existing selections
- Edge Sensitivity: Adjust sensitivity to edge detection
Foreground Select Tool (Shift+F): Interactive selection with painting
- Interactive Selection: Paint to define foreground and background
- Automatic Refinement: GIMP automatically refines selection
- Manual Refinement: Manually adjust selection boundaries
- Selection Modes: Combine with existing selections
- Edge Detection: Advanced edge detection algorithms

Paint Tools (Second Row):

Paintbrush Tool (P): Primary painting tool with various brush dynamics
- Brush Selection: Choose from hundreds of available brushes
- Brush Dynamics: Pressure, tilt, velocity, and random dynamics
- Opacity Control: Control paint opacity and flow
- Blend Modes: Various blending modes for creative effects
- Brush Settings: Size, hardness, angle, spacing, and more
- Custom Brushes: Create and save custom brush presets
Pencil Tool (N): Hard-edged painting without anti-aliasing
- Hard Edges: No anti-aliasing for pixel-perfect painting
- Pixel Art: Ideal for pixel art and retro graphics
- Brush Dynamics: Pressure and tilt sensitivity
- Opacity Control: Control paint opacity
- Blend Modes: Various blending modes available
Eraser Tool (Shift+E): Removes pixels or makes them transparent
- Eraser Modes: Erase to background color or transparency
- Brush Selection: Choose eraser brush size and shape
- Opacity Control: Control eraser strength
- Hardness Control: Soft or hard eraser edges
- Blend Modes: Various erasing modes available
Airbrush Tool (A): Soft painting with pressure sensitivity
- Pressure Sensitivity: Responds to tablet pressure
- Soft Edges: Natural, soft painting strokes
- Flow Control: Control paint flow rate
- Brush Dynamics: Pressure, tilt, and velocity sensitivity
- Opacity Control: Control paint opacity
Ink Tool (K): Calligraphy-style painting with pen dynamics
- Pen Dynamics: Pressure, tilt, and velocity sensitivity
- Calligraphy Effects: Natural pen and brush effects
- Angle Control: Control pen angle for different stroke styles
- Opacity Control: Control ink opacity
- Blend Modes: Various blending modes available
MyPaint Brush Tool (Y): Advanced brush engine with natural media simulation
- Natural Media: Simulate real-world painting media
- Advanced Dynamics: Complex brush dynamics and behaviors
- Brush Categories: Watercolor, oil, pencil, charcoal, and more
- Custom Brushes: Create and share custom MyPaint brushes
- Pressure Sensitivity: Full tablet pressure and tilt support

Transform Tools (Third Row):

Move Tool (M): Moves layers, selections, or paths
- Layer Mode: Move entire layers
- Selection Mode: Move only selected areas
- Path Mode: Move vector paths
- Snap to Grid: Automatic alignment with grid
- Snap to Guides: Automatic alignment with guides
Align Tool (Q): Aligns and distributes layers or objects
- Alignment Options: Left, center, right, top, middle, bottom
- Distribution Options: Evenly distribute objects
- Relative Alignment: Align relative to selection or image
- Multiple Objects: Align multiple layers or objects
- Snap to Grid: Automatic alignment with grid
Crop Tool (Shift+C): Crops and resizes images
- Interactive Cropping: Drag to define crop area
- Aspect Ratio: Maintain specific aspect ratios
- Fixed Size: Crop to exact pixel dimensions
- Crop Preview: See crop result before applying
- Crop Options: Delete cropped pixels or keep them
Unified Transform Tool (Shift+T): Combines multiple transform operations
- Scale: Resize objects proportionally or freely
- Rotate: Rotate objects around center point
- Shear: Skew objects for perspective effects
- Perspective: Apply perspective transformations
- Transform Modes: Move, scale, rotate, shear, perspective
Handle Transform Tool (H): Free-form deformation using control points
- Control Points: Drag control points to deform objects
- Smooth Deformation: Natural, smooth deformation
- Multiple Points: Use multiple control points for complex deformations
- Preview Mode: See deformation result before applying
- Reset Option: Reset to original shape
Cage Transform Tool (Shift+G): Mesh-based warping and deformation
- Mesh Grid: Create mesh grid for deformation
- Grid Points: Drag grid points to deform objects
- Smooth Warping: Natural, smooth warping effects
- Complex Deformations: Create complex, organic deformations
- Preview Mode: See warping result before applying

Color Tools (Fourth Row):

Bucket Fill Tool (Shift+B): Fills areas with solid color or patterns
- Fill Modes: Fill with foreground color, background color, or pattern
- Threshold Control: Adjust color similarity tolerance
- Fill by: Fill by color similarity or by selection
- Pattern Fill: Fill with custom patterns
- Blend Modes: Various blending modes for fill effects
Gradient Tool (G): Creates linear, radial, and other gradient fills
- Gradient Types: Linear, radial, conical, spiral, and more
- Gradient Selection: Choose from hundreds of available gradients
- Custom Gradients: Create and save custom gradients
- Gradient Editor: Advanced gradient editing capabilities
- Blend Modes: Various blending modes for gradient effects
Color Picker Tool (O): Samples colors from the image
- Color Sampling: Click to sample colors from image
- Sample Size: Choose sampling area size (1x1, 3x3, 5x5, etc.)
- Color Models: Sample in RGB, HSV, or other color models
- Color History: Keep track of recently sampled colors
- Color Information: Display detailed color information

Text and Path Tools (Fifth Row):

Text Tool (T): Creates and edits text layers
- Text Input: Type and edit text directly on canvas
- Font Selection: Choose from available system fonts
- Text Formatting: Bold, italic, underline, and other formatting
- Text Alignment: Left, center, right, and justify alignment
- Text Effects: Apply various text effects and styles
Path Tool (B): Creates and edits vector paths
- Path Creation: Create vector paths with anchor points
- Path Editing: Edit existing paths and anchor points
- Path Operations: Combine, subtract, and intersect paths
- Path to Selection: Convert paths to pixel selections
- Selection to Path: Convert selections to vector paths

Additional Tools:

Zoom Tool (Z): Magnifies or reduces image view
Measure Tool (Shift+M): Measures distances and angles
Warp Tool (Shift+W): Warps and distorts image areas
Heal Tool (H): Removes blemishes and imperfections
Clone Tool (C): Clones image areas for duplication
Perspective Clone Tool (Shift+C): Clones with perspective correction

Tool Selection Methods

Click Selection: Click on any tool icon to select it Keyboard Shortcuts: Most tools have single-key shortcuts Tool Cycling: Hold Shift and press a tool's shortcut to cycle through related tools Right-Click Context: Right-clicking some tools reveals additional options

Tool Options Dialog

When a tool is selected, its options appear in the Tool Options dialog, which typically includes:

Tool-Specific Settings: Unique options for each tool
Brush Selection: Choose from available brushes
Color Selection: Foreground and background color pickers
Mode Selection: Blend modes for the tool
Opacity and Flow: Control the intensity of tool application
Additional Options: Tool-specific parameters and settings

Essential Tools for Beginners

Must-Know Tools:

Paintbrush Tool: For most painting and drawing tasks
Rectangle Select Tool: For basic selections
Move Tool: For repositioning elements
Eraser Tool: For removing unwanted areas
Color Picker Tool: For sampling colors
Zoom Tool: For navigating the canvas

Pro Tips:

Learn keyboard shortcuts for your most-used tools
Use the Tool Options dialog to customize tool behavior
Experiment with different brush dynamics and settings
Combine tools for complex editing tasks
Use the right-click context menu for quick tool access

Dockable Dialogs: Layers, Channels, Paths, Undo

Dockable dialogs are the foundation of GIMP's flexible interface, allowing you to organize and access essential functions efficiently. These dialogs can be docked, undocked, grouped, and positioned according to your workflow preferences.

Essential Dockable Dialogs

Layers Dialog (Ctrl+L): The most important dialog for managing your image composition:

Layer List: Shows all layers in your image with thumbnails
Layer Properties: Opacity, blend modes, visibility toggles
Layer Operations: Create, duplicate, delete, merge layers
Layer Groups: Organize related layers together
Layer Masks: Add and manage layer masks for non-destructive editing

Channels Dialog (Ctrl+Ch): Essential for advanced color and selection work:

Color Channels: View and edit individual RGB channels
Alpha Channel: Manage transparency information
Custom Channels: Save selections and create custom channels
Channel Operations: Duplicate, delete, and modify channels
Channel to Selection: Convert channels back to selections

Paths Dialog (Ctrl+Shift+P): For vector-based editing and precise selections:

Path List: Manage multiple paths in your image
Path Operations: Create, edit, and delete paths
Path to Selection: Convert vector paths to pixel selections
Selection to Path: Convert selections to editable paths
Path Stroking: Apply brush strokes along path outlines

Undo History Dialog (Ctrl+Shift+H): Track and manage your editing history:

History List: Visual timeline of all operations
Undo/Redo: Navigate through your editing history
History States: Jump to specific points in your editing
Memory Management: Monitor undo memory usage
History Settings: Configure undo levels and memory usage

Dialog Management

Docking and Undocking:

Dock a Dialog: Drag a dialog to a dock area (highlighted in blue)
Undock a Dialog: Drag a dialog away from its dock
Floating Dialogs: Undocked dialogs become independent windows
Dock Areas: Blue highlights indicate valid docking positions

Tabbed Dialogs:

Create Tabs: Drag one dialog onto another to create tabs
Switch Tabs: Click on tab headers to switch between dialogs
Reorder Tabs: Drag tab headers to reorder them
Close Tabs: Click the X button on individual tabs

Dialog Grouping:

Group Dialogs: Drag dialogs together to create groups
Split Groups: Drag dialogs apart to separate them
Nested Groups: Create complex dialog arrangements
Group Management: Organize related dialogs together

Essential Dialog Combinations

Basic Workflow Setup:

Layers + Channels: Essential for most editing tasks
Tool Options + Brushes: For painting and drawing
Paths + Undo History: For precise editing work

Advanced Workflow Setup:

Layers + Channels + Paths: Complete editing suite
Brushes + Patterns + Gradients: Creative resource management
Filters + Scripts: Advanced effects and automation

Dialog Customization Tips

Efficient Layouts:

Group related dialogs together
Keep frequently used dialogs easily accessible
Use tabs to save screen space
Position dialogs based on your workflow

Memory Management:

Close unused dialogs to free memory
Use the Undo History dialog to monitor memory usage
Adjust undo levels in preferences if needed
Save workspace layouts for different projects

Workflow Optimization:

Create custom workspace layouts for different tasks
Use keyboard shortcuts to toggle dialogs
Save and restore dialog arrangements
Organize dialogs by function or frequency of use

Tab and Dialog Customization

GIMP's tabbed interface system allows you to organize multiple dialogs efficiently, saving screen space while keeping essential tools accessible. Understanding how to customize tabs and dialogs will significantly improve your workflow efficiency.

Creating and Managing Tabs

Creating Tabs:

Drag and Drop: Drag one dialog onto another to create tabs
Visual Feedback: Blue highlighting indicates valid tab positions
Automatic Grouping: Related dialogs can be automatically grouped
Tab Creation: Multiple dialogs can share the same dock space

Tab Navigation:

Click to Switch: Click on tab headers to switch between dialogs
Keyboard Shortcuts: Use Ctrl+Tab to cycle through tabs
Mouse Wheel: Scroll over tabs to navigate quickly
Right-Click Menu: Access tab-specific options

Tab Management:

Reorder Tabs: Drag tab headers to reorder them
Close Tabs: Click the X button on individual tabs
Detach Tabs: Drag tabs away to create separate dialogs
Merge Tabs: Drag tabs together to combine them

Advanced Tab Customization

Tab Grouping Strategies:

Function-Based Grouping: Group related dialogs (Layers + Channels)
Workflow-Based Grouping: Organize by editing stages
Frequency-Based Grouping: Keep most-used dialogs together
Project-Based Grouping: Customize for specific project types

Tab Layout Optimization:

Horizontal Tabs: For wide dialogs or multiple related tools
Vertical Tabs: For narrow dialogs or space-constrained layouts
Nested Tabs: Create complex dialog hierarchies
Floating Tabs: Keep some dialogs independent for quick access

Dialog Positioning

Dock Areas:

Left Dock: Typically for tool-related dialogs
Right Dock: Usually for layers, channels, and paths
Bottom Dock: Good for status and information dialogs
Custom Positions: Drag dialogs to any valid dock area

Floating Dialogs:

Independent Windows: Undocked dialogs become separate windows
Multi-Monitor Support: Position dialogs on different screens
Always on Top: Keep important dialogs visible
Snap to Edges: Automatic alignment with screen edges

Workspace Layout Management

Saving Layouts:

Window > Workspace: Access workspace management
Save Current Layout: Create custom workspace arrangements
Load Saved Layout: Restore previously saved layouts
Delete Layouts: Remove unwanted workspace configurations

Layout Categories:

Default Layout: GIMP's standard arrangement
Custom Layouts: Your personal workspace configurations
Project-Specific Layouts: Tailored for different types of work
Backup Layouts: Safety copies of important configurations

Dialog Customization Tips

Efficiency Tips:

Keyboard Shortcuts: Learn shortcuts for frequently used dialogs
Context Menus: Right-click for quick access to options
Tool Integration: Keep tool options near the main toolbox
Resource Management: Group brushes, patterns, and gradients together

Memory Optimization:

Close Unused Dialogs: Free memory by closing unnecessary dialogs
Minimize Tabs: Use tabs to reduce memory footprint
Selective Loading: Only open dialogs you need for current work
Regular Cleanup: Periodically review and optimize your layout

Workflow Integration:

Task-Specific Layouts: Create layouts for different editing tasks
Quick Switching: Use keyboard shortcuts to toggle between layouts
Project Templates: Save layouts as part of project templates
Collaboration: Share workspace layouts with team members

Changing Themes and Icon Sets

GIMP's visual appearance can be customized through themes and icon sets, allowing you to create a personalized interface that matches your preferences and workflow. This customization can improve both aesthetics and usability.

Available Themes

Default Themes:

System Theme: Matches your operating system's appearance
Dark Theme: Dark interface for reduced eye strain
Light Theme: Traditional light interface
High Contrast: Enhanced visibility for accessibility

Custom Themes:

User-Created Themes: Community-developed interface themes
Professional Themes: Designed for specific workflows
Accessibility Themes: Enhanced visibility and contrast
Minimalist Themes: Clean, distraction-free interfaces

Changing Interface Themes

Accessing Theme Settings:

Go to Edit > Preferences (Ctrl+,)
Navigate to Interface section
Select Theme from the options
Choose your preferred theme
Click OK to apply changes

Theme Categories:

Color Schemes: Light, dark, and custom color combinations
Widget Styles: Button, dialog, and control appearances
Font Settings: Interface font family and size
Icon Themes: Visual style of tool and menu icons

Icon Set Customization

Available Icon Sets:

Default Icons: GIMP's standard icon set
Legacy Icons: Traditional GIMP icon style
Symbolic Icons: Simplified, symbolic representations
Custom Icon Sets: User-created or community icon sets

Icon Set Features:

Tool Icons: Visual representation of tools in the toolbox
Menu Icons: Icons in menus and context menus
Dialog Icons: Icons in dialogs and panels
Status Icons: Icons in status bars and notifications

Customizing Icon Appearance

Icon Size Options:

Small Icons: Compact interface, more screen space
Medium Icons: Balanced size and visibility
Large Icons: Enhanced visibility, easier selection
Custom Sizes: User-defined icon dimensions

Icon Style Options:

Symbolic Style: Simplified, monochrome icons
Realistic Style: Detailed, colorful icons
Mixed Style: Combination of symbolic and realistic
Custom Style: User-defined icon appearance

Advanced Theme Customization

Creating Custom Themes:

Theme Files: Edit GIMP's theme configuration files
Color Customization: Modify interface colors and contrast
Font Customization: Change interface fonts and sizes
Layout Customization: Adjust spacing and positioning

Theme Components:

Color Schemes: Background, foreground, and accent colors
Widget Styles: Button, dialog, and control appearances
Icon Themes: Tool and menu icon styles
Layout Settings: Spacing, padding, and alignment

Accessibility Considerations

High Contrast Themes:

Enhanced Visibility: Improved contrast for better readability
Color Blind Support: Themes designed for color vision deficiencies
Large Icons: Bigger icons for easier identification
Clear Typography: Enhanced text readability

Accessibility Features:

Screen Reader Support: Compatible with assistive technologies
Keyboard Navigation: Full keyboard accessibility
Focus Indicators: Clear visual focus indicators
Customizable Contrast: User-adjustable contrast levels

Performance Considerations

Theme Performance:

Lightweight Themes: Minimal impact on system performance
Resource Usage: Some themes may use more system resources
Loading Time: Complex themes may take longer to load
Memory Usage: Theme files consume system memory

Optimization Tips:

Choose Efficient Themes: Select themes optimized for performance
Disable Unused Features: Turn off unnecessary visual effects
Regular Updates: Keep themes updated for best performance
System Compatibility: Ensure themes work with your system

Troubleshooting Theme Issues

Common Problems:

Theme Not Loading: Check theme file integrity
Icons Missing: Verify icon set installation
Performance Issues: Try lighter themes
Visual Glitches: Update graphics drivers

Solutions:

Reset to Default: Restore GIMP's default theme
Reinstall Themes: Download and reinstall theme files
Check Compatibility: Ensure themes match your GIMP version
System Updates: Update your operating system and drivers

Using the Status Bar and Navigation Bar

The Status Bar and Navigation Bar provide essential information about your current image and editing state, along with quick access to navigation tools. Understanding these interface elements will help you work more efficiently and stay informed about your project's status.

Status Bar Components

Image Information:

Image Dimensions: Shows current image size in pixels
Color Mode: Displays the image's color mode (RGB, Grayscale, etc.)
Zoom Level: Current magnification percentage
Memory Usage: Amount of memory used by the current image
Layer Information: Current layer name and properties

Tool Information:

Active Tool: Name of the currently selected tool
Tool Coordinates: Cursor position in image coordinates
Selection Status: Information about active selections
Undo Level: Current position in the undo history

Performance Indicators:

Processing Status: Shows when operations are in progress
Memory Warnings: Alerts when memory usage is high
System Resources: Available memory and processing power
Background Tasks: Status of automated operations

Navigation Bar Features

Zoom Controls:

Zoom In/Out: Buttons to increase or decrease magnification
Zoom Slider: Interactive slider for precise zoom control
Fit to Window: Automatically adjust zoom to fit the image
Actual Size: Display image at 100% magnification
Zoom Percentage: Direct input field for specific zoom levels

Navigation Tools:

Pan Tool: Hand tool for moving around the canvas
Zoom Tool: Magnifying glass for zooming in/out
Navigation Dialog: Miniature preview of the entire image
Scroll Bars: Traditional scroll bars for navigation

Status Bar Customization

Information Display:

Customizable Fields: Choose which information to display
Field Order: Rearrange the order of information fields
Field Size: Adjust the size of individual information areas
Color Coding: Use colors to highlight important information

Display Options:

Always Visible: Keep status bar always visible
Auto-Hide: Hide status bar when not needed
Compact Mode: Reduce status bar size for more workspace
Full Mode: Show all available information

Navigation Efficiency

Keyboard Shortcuts:

Zoom In: Ctrl + Plus (+)
Zoom Out: Ctrl + Minus (-)
Fit to Window: Ctrl + 0
Actual Size: Ctrl + 1
Pan Tool: Spacebar (temporary)
Zoom Tool: Z key

Mouse Navigation:

Mouse Wheel: Zoom in/out with scroll wheel
Ctrl + Mouse Wheel: Fine zoom control
Middle Mouse Button: Pan around the canvas
Right-Click: Context menu with navigation options

Advanced Navigation Features

Navigation Dialog:

Miniature Preview: Small version of your entire image
Viewport Indicator: Shows current view area
Quick Navigation: Click to jump to specific areas
Zoom Control: Integrated zoom controls
Layer Visibility: Toggle layer visibility in preview

Multiple Views:

Split View: Compare different areas of the same image
Synchronized Navigation: Navigate multiple views together
Independent Zoom: Different zoom levels for each view
View Management: Organize and arrange multiple views

Status Bar Information

Real-Time Updates:

Live Information: Status updates as you work
Tool Feedback: Immediate response to tool changes
Selection Updates: Real-time selection information
Layer Changes: Automatic updates when layers change

Historical Information:

Undo History: Track of recent operations
Memory Usage: Historical memory consumption
Performance Metrics: System performance over time
Operation Logs: Record of completed operations

Troubleshooting Navigation Issues

Common Problems:

Status Bar Not Updating: Check if information display is enabled
Navigation Not Working: Verify mouse and keyboard settings
Zoom Issues: Check zoom limits and preferences
Performance Problems: Monitor memory usage and system resources

Solutions:

Reset Navigation: Restore default navigation settings
Update Drivers: Ensure graphics drivers are current
Memory Management: Close unused dialogs and images
System Optimization: Adjust GIMP's memory settings

Menu Overview: File, Edit, Select, View, Image, Layer, etc.

GIMP's menu system provides access to all major functions and features. Understanding the menu structure and organization will help you navigate the application efficiently and discover advanced features.

File Menu

File Operations:

New: Create new images with custom dimensions and settings
Open: Open existing images in various formats
Open Recent: Quick access to recently opened files
Create: Create new images from templates or presets
Open as Layers: Add images as new layers to current image
Close: Close current image or all images
Save: Save current image in its original format
Save As: Save with different name, format, or location
Export: Export images for specific purposes (web, print, etc.)
Export As: Export with specific format settings

Advanced File Operations:

Revert: Restore image to last saved state
Show in File Manager: Open file location in system file manager
Properties: View and edit image metadata
Print: Print current image with print settings
Quit: Exit GIMP application

Edit Menu

Basic Editing:

Undo: Reverse last operation (Ctrl+Z)
Redo: Restore undone operation (Ctrl+Y)
Undo History: Access complete undo history
Fade: Reduce opacity of last operation
Cut: Cut selection to clipboard (Ctrl+X)
Copy: Copy selection to clipboard (Ctrl+C)
Paste: Paste from clipboard (Ctrl+V)
Paste Into: Paste selection into active selection
Paste as New: Create new image from clipboard

Advanced Editing:

Clear: Delete selection contents
Fill: Fill selection with color, pattern, or gradient
Stroke: Apply outline to selection or path
Preferences: Access GIMP settings and configuration
Input Devices: Configure tablet and input device settings
Modules: Manage GIMP modules and extensions

Select Menu

Selection Operations:

All: Select entire image (Ctrl+A)
None: Deselect all (Ctrl+Shift+A)
Invert: Invert current selection (Ctrl+I)
Float: Create floating selection from current selection
By Color: Select all pixels of similar color
From Path: Convert path to selection
To Path: Convert selection to path

Selection Modifications:

Grow: Expand selection by specified pixels
Shrink: Contract selection by specified pixels
Border: Create border selection around current selection
Feather: Soften selection edges
Sharpen: Harden selection edges
Smooth: Smooth selection edges
Round: Round selection corners

View Menu

Display Options:

Zoom In: Increase magnification (Ctrl+Plus)
Zoom Out: Decrease magnification (Ctrl+Minus)
Fit Image in Window: Auto-fit image to window (Ctrl+0)
Fit Image to Window: Fit image to window size
Actual Size: Display at 100% zoom (Ctrl+1)
Zoom to Selection: Zoom to fit current selection
Show All: Show entire image in window

Interface Elements:

Show Grid: Toggle grid display
Show Guides: Toggle guide lines
Show Sample Points: Toggle color sample points
Show Layer Boundary: Toggle layer boundary display
Show Selection: Toggle selection visibility
Show Text Direction: Toggle text direction indicators

Image Menu

Image Operations:

Mode: Change color mode (RGB, Grayscale, Indexed, etc.)
Precision: Change bit depth and precision
Transform: Apply transformations to entire image
Canvas Size: Resize canvas without scaling image
Canvas to Selection: Crop canvas to current selection
Crop to Content: Remove empty areas around image
Duplicate: Create copy of current image
Scale Image: Resize image with interpolation
Print Size: Set print dimensions and resolution

Advanced Image Operations:

Guillotine: Split image into separate layers
Autocrop: Automatically crop to content
Zealous Crop: Remove empty areas more aggressively
Merge Visible Layers: Combine all visible layers
Flatten Image: Merge all layers into single layer

Layer Menu

Layer Operations:

New Layer: Create new layer with specified properties
New from Visible: Create layer from visible content
New from Selection: Create layer from current selection
Duplicate Layer: Copy current layer
Delete Layer: Remove current layer
Scale Layer: Resize current layer
Crop to Selection: Crop layer to current selection

Layer Management:

Stack: Change layer stacking order
Transparency: Modify layer transparency settings
Transform: Apply transformations to current layer
Text to Path: Convert text to vector path
Text Along Path: Align text along path
Path to Selection: Convert path to selection
Add Layer Mask: Add mask to current layer

Colors Menu

Color Adjustments:

Levels: Adjust image levels and contrast
Curves: Fine-tune color and tone curves
Hue-Saturation: Adjust hue, saturation, and lightness
Color Balance: Adjust color balance for shadows, midtones, highlights
Brightness-Contrast: Simple brightness and contrast adjustment
Threshold: Convert to black and white with threshold
Posterize: Reduce number of colors in image

Color Operations:

Invert: Invert image colors
Desaturate: Remove color saturation
Auto: Automatic color corrections
Info: Display color information
Map: Apply color mapping operations
Normalize: Normalize image colors
Equalize: Equalize image histogram

Tools Menu

Tool Selection:

Selection Tools: Access all selection tools
Paint Tools: Access all painting tools
Transform Tools: Access all transformation tools
Color Tools: Access all color tools
Text Tools: Access text and path tools

Tool Operations:

Tool Options: Open tool options dialog
Reset Tool: Reset current tool to defaults
Reset All Tools: Reset all tools to defaults
Save Tool Preset: Save current tool settings
Restore Tool Preset: Load saved tool settings

Filters Menu

Filter Categories:

Blur: Various blur effects
Enhance: Image enhancement filters
Distort: Distortion effects
Light and Shadow: Lighting effects
Noise: Noise reduction and addition
Edge-Detect: Edge detection filters
Generic: Generic filter operations
Combine: Filter combination tools
Artistic: Artistic effects
Decor: Decorative effects
Map: Color and texture mapping
Render: Procedural generation
Web: Web-optimized filters
Animation: Animation-specific filters

Windows Menu

Window Management:

Single-Window Mode: Switch to single-window mode
Multi-Window Mode: Switch to multi-window mode
Recently Closed Docks: Restore recently closed dialogs
Hide Docks: Hide all dockable dialogs
Show Tabs: Show/hide dialog tabs
Tab Style: Change tab appearance

Dialog Management:

Layers: Open layers dialog
Channels: Open channels dialog
Paths: Open paths dialog
Undo History: Open undo history dialog
Tool Options: Open tool options dialog
Brushes: Open brushes dialog
Patterns: Open patterns dialog
Gradients: Open gradients dialog
Palettes: Open palettes dialog
Fonts: Open fonts dialog
Brushes: Open brushes dialog
Tool Presets: Open tool presets dialog
Navigation: Open navigation dialog
Color Editor: Open color editor dialog
Histogram: Open histogram dialog
Sample Points: Open sample points dialog
Colormap: Open colormap dialog
Indexed Palette: Open indexed palette dialog
Device Status: Open device status dialog
Image Templates: Open image templates dialog
Error Console: Open error console dialog
Procedure Browser: Open procedure browser dialog
DBus: Open DBus interface dialog
Debug: Open debug dialog
Python Console: Open Python console dialog
Script-Fu Console: Open Script-Fu console dialog
Help: Open help system
About: Display GIMP information

Setting Up and Managing Custom Workspaces

Custom workspaces allow you to create personalized interface layouts tailored to your specific workflows and projects. This feature is essential for professional users who need to optimize their workspace for different types of work.

Creating Custom Workspaces

Basic Workspace Creation:

Arrange Dialogs: Position dialogs and panels as desired
Group Related Dialogs: Use tabs to organize related functions
Save Layout: Go to Windows > Workspace > Save Current Layout
Name Workspace: Give your workspace a descriptive name
Set as Default: Optionally set as default workspace

Workspace Components:

Dialog Positions: Location of all dockable dialogs
Tab Arrangements: How dialogs are grouped in tabs
Floating Dialogs: Independent dialog windows
Toolbox Position: Location of the main toolbox
Status Bar Settings: Status bar configuration and visibility

Workspace Categories

Project-Specific Workspaces:

Photo Editing: Optimized for photo retouching and enhancement
Digital Art: Arranged for painting and illustration work
Web Design: Configured for UI/UX and web graphics
Print Design: Set up for print layout and prepress work
Animation: Organized for frame-by-frame animation work

Task-Specific Workspaces:

Selection Work: Focus on selection tools and channels
Color Correction: Emphasize color tools and adjustments
Text Work: Optimized for typography and text editing
Filter Work: Arranged for applying and managing filters
Scripting: Set up for automation and script development

Advanced Workspace Management

Workspace Organization:

Naming Conventions: Use descriptive names for easy identification
Version Control: Save multiple versions of the same workspace
Backup Workspaces: Keep backup copies of important layouts
Workspace Documentation: Document the purpose of each workspace

Workspace Sharing:

Export Workspaces: Save workspace configurations to files
Import Workspaces: Load workspace configurations from files
Team Sharing: Share workspaces with team members
Workspace Libraries: Create collections of workspace templates

Workspace Optimization

Performance Considerations:

Memory Usage: Monitor memory consumption of different layouts
Dialog Loading: Optimize which dialogs are loaded by default
Resource Management: Balance functionality with system resources
Startup Time: Consider impact on GIMP startup time

Efficiency Tips:

Frequently Used Dialogs: Keep most-used dialogs easily accessible
Keyboard Shortcuts: Learn shortcuts for workspace switching
Context Menus: Use right-click menus for quick access
Tool Integration: Position tool options near the main toolbox

Workspace Templates

Creating Templates:

Base Workspace: Start with a well-configured base workspace
Template Variations: Create variations for different project types
Template Documentation: Document template purposes and usage
Template Testing: Test templates with real projects

Template Management:

Template Library: Organize templates in a dedicated folder
Template Naming: Use consistent naming conventions
Template Updates: Keep templates current with GIMP versions
Template Backup: Regular backup of template files

Workspace Troubleshooting

Common Issues:

Dialogs Not Loading: Check if dialogs are properly saved in workspace
Layout Corruption: Reset to default and recreate workspace
Performance Problems: Optimize workspace for better performance
Memory Issues: Reduce number of open dialogs

Solutions:

Reset Workspace: Restore default workspace configuration
Recreate Layout: Manually recreate corrupted workspace
Workspace Validation: Check workspace file integrity
System Optimization: Optimize system for GIMP performance

Best Practices

Workspace Design:

Logical Grouping: Group related dialogs together
Workflow Optimization: Arrange dialogs to match your workflow
Screen Real Estate: Maximize use of available screen space
Accessibility: Ensure workspaces are accessible and usable

Maintenance:

Regular Updates: Keep workspaces updated with GIMP versions
Performance Monitoring: Monitor workspace performance over time
User Feedback: Gather feedback on workspace effectiveness
Continuous Improvement: Regularly refine and improve workspaces

Keyboard Shortcuts: Customizing and Using Efficiently

Keyboard shortcuts are essential for efficient GIMP usage, allowing you to perform common operations quickly without reaching for the mouse. Understanding and customizing shortcuts will significantly improve your workflow speed and productivity.

Essential Keyboard Shortcuts

File Operations:

Ctrl+N: New image
- Quick Access: Most frequently used file operation
- Template Selection: Choose from templates or create custom
- Image Properties: Set dimensions, resolution, and color mode
- Fill Options: Choose background fill (white, transparent, custom)
Ctrl+O: Open image
- File Browser: Access system file browser
- Multiple Files: Select and open multiple images
- Recent Files: Quick access to recently opened files
- Format Support: Open various image formats (JPEG, PNG, TIFF, etc.)
Ctrl+S: Save image
- Quick Save: Save current image in original format
- Auto-Save: Automatic saving of work in progress
- Format Preservation: Maintain original file format
- Metadata Preservation: Keep image metadata and properties
Ctrl+Shift+S: Save As
- Format Selection: Choose different file format
- Location Selection: Save to different directory
- Quality Settings: Adjust compression and quality settings
- Export Options: Configure export-specific settings
Ctrl+W: Close image
- Single Image: Close current image
- Multiple Images: Close all open images
- Unsaved Changes: Prompt to save before closing
- Tab Management: Close image tabs in single-window mode
Ctrl+Q: Quit GIMP
- Application Exit: Close GIMP completely
- Unsaved Work: Prompt to save all unsaved changes
- Session Management: Save current session state
- Resource Cleanup: Free system resources and memory

Edit Operations:

Ctrl+Z: Undo
- Single Undo: Reverse last operation
- Undo History: Access complete undo history
- Multiple Undos: Undo multiple operations in sequence
- Undo Limits: Configure maximum undo levels
Ctrl+Y: Redo
- Single Redo: Restore last undone operation
- Redo History: Access complete redo history
- Multiple Redos: Redo multiple operations in sequence
- Redo Limits: Configure maximum redo levels
Ctrl+X: Cut
- Selection Cut: Cut selected area to clipboard
- Layer Cut: Cut entire layer to clipboard
- Path Cut: Cut selected path to clipboard
- Clipboard Management: Manage clipboard contents
Ctrl+C: Copy
- Selection Copy: Copy selected area to clipboard
- Layer Copy: Copy entire layer to clipboard
- Path Copy: Copy selected path to clipboard
- Multiple Copies: Copy multiple selections or layers
Ctrl+V: Paste
- Clipboard Paste: Paste from clipboard
- Paste as New Layer: Create new layer from clipboard
- Paste into Selection: Paste only within active selection
- Paste as New Image: Create new image from clipboard
Ctrl+A: Select All
- Full Selection: Select entire image
- Layer Selection: Select entire layer
- Path Selection: Select entire path
- Selection Modes: Combine with existing selections
Ctrl+Shift+A: Deselect All
- Clear Selection: Remove all active selections
- Selection Reset: Reset selection state
- Path Deselection: Deselect all paths
- Clean State: Return to clean editing state
Ctrl+I: Invert Selection
- Selection Inversion: Invert current selection
- Path Inversion: Invert selected path
- Layer Inversion: Invert layer selection
- Quick Inversion: Fast selection inversion

View Operations:

Ctrl+Plus: Zoom In
- Incremental Zoom: Zoom in by standard increments
- Mouse Wheel: Alternative zoom method
- Zoom Tool: Activate zoom tool for precise control
- Zoom Limits: Configure maximum zoom level
Ctrl+Minus: Zoom Out
- Incremental Zoom: Zoom out by standard increments
- Mouse Wheel: Alternative zoom method
- Zoom Tool: Activate zoom tool for precise control
- Zoom Limits: Configure minimum zoom level
Ctrl+0: Fit to Window
- Auto Fit: Automatically fit image to window
- Proportional Scaling: Maintain aspect ratio
- Window Optimization: Optimize for current window size
- Quick Navigation: Fast way to see entire image
Ctrl+1: Actual Size
- 100% Zoom: Display image at actual size
- Pixel Perfect: See actual pixel dimensions
- Print Preview: Preview how image will print
- Detail Work: Ideal for detailed editing work
Spacebar: Pan Tool (temporary)
- Temporary Pan: Temporarily activate pan tool
- Mouse Pan: Pan around image while holding spacebar
- Quick Navigation: Fast way to navigate large images
- Tool Switching: Automatically return to previous tool
Z: Zoom Tool
- Zoom Tool: Activate zoom tool permanently
- Click to Zoom: Click to zoom in, Shift+click to zoom out
- Drag to Zoom: Drag to define zoom area
- Zoom Options: Configure zoom tool behavior

Layer Operations:

Ctrl+Shift+N: New Layer
- Layer Creation: Create new layer with default settings
- Layer Properties: Set layer name, opacity, and blend mode
- Layer Position: Choose layer position in stack
- Layer Type: Create different layer types (normal, text, etc.)
Ctrl+Shift+D: Duplicate Layer
- Layer Copy: Create exact copy of current layer
- Layer Properties: Copy all layer properties and settings
- Layer Position: Place duplicate layer above original
- Quick Duplication: Fast way to duplicate layers
Ctrl+Shift+E: Merge Down
- Layer Merging: Merge current layer with layer below
- Layer Combination: Combine two layers into one
- Layer Reduction: Reduce number of layers
- Layer Optimization: Optimize layer structure
Ctrl+Shift+M: Merge Visible Layers
- Visible Merging: Merge all visible layers
- Layer Combination: Combine multiple layers
- Layer Reduction: Reduce complex layer structure
- Layer Optimization: Optimize layer hierarchy
Ctrl+Shift+F: Flatten Image
- Complete Flattening: Merge all layers into single layer
- Layer Reduction: Reduce to single layer
- File Optimization: Optimize file size
- Export Preparation: Prepare for export

Tool Shortcuts

Selection Tools:

R: Rectangle Select
- Quick Access: Fastest way to create rectangular selections
- Selection Modes: Add, subtract, intersect, or replace selections
- Fixed Options: Aspect ratio, size, and position controls
- Feathering: Apply edge softening for smooth blending
- Anti-aliasing: Smooth selection edges for better quality
E: Ellipse Select
- Circular Selections: Perfect for circular and elliptical areas
- Center Point: Start selection from center point
- Aspect Ratio: Maintain elliptical proportions
- Selection Modes: Combine with existing selections
- Feathering: Apply edge softening for natural blending
F: Free Select (Lasso)
- Freehand Selection: Draw selection outline by hand
- Polygonal Mode: Create selection with straight line segments
- Magnetic Mode: Automatically snap to edges (when available)
- Selection Modes: Add, subtract, or intersect with existing selections
- Smooth Curves: Convert polygonal selections to smooth curves
U: Fuzzy Select (Magic Wand)
- Color-Based Selection: Select areas of similar color
- Threshold Control: Adjust color similarity tolerance
- Sample Merged: Consider all visible layers when sampling
- Contiguous: Select only connected areas of similar color
- Selection Modes: Combine with existing selections
Shift+O: Select by Color
- Global Color Selection: Select all pixels of chosen color
- Threshold Control: Adjust color similarity tolerance
- Sample Merged: Consider all visible layers
- Selection Modes: Combine with existing selections
- Anti-aliasing: Smooth selection edges
I: Scissors Select
- Edge Detection: Automatically detect and follow edges
- Interactive Refinement: Manually adjust edge detection
- Smooth Curves: Convert to smooth curves for better results
- Selection Modes: Combine with existing selections
- Edge Sensitivity: Adjust sensitivity to edge detection
Shift+F: Foreground Select
- Interactive Selection: Paint to define foreground and background
- Automatic Refinement: GIMP automatically refines selection
- Manual Refinement: Manually adjust selection boundaries
- Selection Modes: Combine with existing selections
- Edge Detection: Advanced edge detection algorithms

Paint Tools:

P: Paintbrush
- Primary Painting: Most versatile painting tool
- Brush Selection: Choose from hundreds of available brushes
- Brush Dynamics: Pressure, tilt, velocity, and random dynamics
- Opacity Control: Control paint opacity and flow
- Blend Modes: Various blending modes for creative effects
N: Pencil
- Hard Edges: No anti-aliasing for pixel-perfect painting
- Pixel Art: Ideal for pixel art and retro graphics
- Brush Dynamics: Pressure and tilt sensitivity
- Opacity Control: Control paint opacity
- Blend Modes: Various blending modes available
A: Airbrush
- Soft Painting: Natural, soft painting strokes
- Pressure Sensitivity: Responds to tablet pressure
- Flow Control: Control paint flow rate
- Brush Dynamics: Pressure, tilt, and velocity sensitivity
- Opacity Control: Control paint opacity
K: Ink Tool
- Calligraphy Effects: Natural pen and brush effects
- Pen Dynamics: Pressure, tilt, and velocity sensitivity
- Angle Control: Control pen angle for different stroke styles
- Opacity Control: Control ink opacity
- Blend Modes: Various blending modes available
Y: MyPaint Brush
- Natural Media: Simulate real-world painting media
- Advanced Dynamics: Complex brush dynamics and behaviors
- Brush Categories: Watercolor, oil, pencil, charcoal, and more
- Custom Brushes: Create and share custom MyPaint brushes
- Pressure Sensitivity: Full tablet pressure and tilt support
Shift+E: Eraser
- Eraser Modes: Erase to background color or transparency
- Brush Selection: Choose eraser brush size and shape
- Opacity Control: Control eraser strength
- Hardness Control: Soft or hard eraser edges
- Blend Modes: Various erasing modes available
S: Smudge Tool
- Color Smudging: Smudge and blend colors
- Brush Selection: Choose smudge brush size and shape
- Opacity Control: Control smudge strength
- Hardness Control: Soft or hard smudge edges
- Blend Modes: Various smudging modes available

Transform Tools:

M: Move Tool
- Layer Movement: Move entire layers
- Selection Movement: Move only selected areas
- Path Movement: Move vector paths
- Snap to Grid: Automatic alignment with grid
- Snap to Guides: Automatic alignment with guides
Q: Align Tool
- Alignment Options: Left, center, right, top, middle, bottom
- Distribution Options: Evenly distribute objects
- Relative Alignment: Align relative to selection or image
- Multiple Objects: Align multiple layers or objects
- Snap to Grid: Automatic alignment with grid
Shift+C: Crop Tool
- Interactive Cropping: Drag to define crop area
- Aspect Ratio: Maintain specific aspect ratios
- Fixed Size: Crop to exact pixel dimensions
- Crop Preview: See crop result before applying
- Crop Options: Delete cropped pixels or keep them
Shift+T: Unified Transform
- Multiple Transforms: Scale, rotate, shear, perspective
- Transform Modes: Move, scale, rotate, shear, perspective
- Transform Options: Configure transform behavior
- Transform Preview: See transform result before applying
- Transform Reset: Reset to original shape
H: Handle Transform
- Control Points: Drag control points to deform objects
- Smooth Deformation: Natural, smooth deformation
- Multiple Points: Use multiple control points for complex deformations
- Preview Mode: See deformation result before applying
- Reset Option: Reset to original shape
Shift+G: Cage Transform
- Mesh Grid: Create mesh grid for deformation
- Grid Points: Drag grid points to deform objects
- Smooth Warping: Natural, smooth warping effects
- Complex Deformations: Create complex, organic deformations
- Preview Mode: See warping result before applying

Color Tools:

Shift+B: Bucket Fill
- Fill Modes: Fill with foreground color, background color, or pattern
- Threshold Control: Adjust color similarity tolerance
- Fill by: Fill by color similarity or by selection
- Pattern Fill: Fill with custom patterns
- Blend Modes: Various blending modes for fill effects
G: Gradient Tool
- Gradient Types: Linear, radial, conical, spiral, and more
- Gradient Selection: Choose from hundreds of available gradients
- Custom Gradients: Create and save custom gradients
- Gradient Editor: Advanced gradient editing capabilities
- Blend Modes: Various blending modes for gradient effects
O: Color Picker
- Color Sampling: Click to sample colors from image
- Sample Size: Choose sampling area size (1x1, 3x3, 5x5, etc.)
- Color Models: Sample in RGB, HSV, or other color models
- Color History: Keep track of recently sampled colors
- Color Information: Display detailed color information

Text and Path Tools:

T: Text Tool
- Text Input: Type and edit text directly on canvas
- Font Selection: Choose from available system fonts
- Text Formatting: Bold, italic, underline, and other formatting
- Text Alignment: Left, center, right, and justify alignment
- Text Effects: Apply various text effects and styles
B: Path Tool
- Path Creation: Create vector paths with anchor points
- Path Editing: Edit existing paths and anchor points
- Path Operations: Combine, subtract, and intersect paths
- Path to Selection: Convert paths to pixel selections
- Selection to Path: Convert selections to vector paths

Customizing Keyboard Shortcuts

Accessing Shortcut Settings:

Go to Edit > Preferences (Ctrl+,)
Navigate to Interface section
Select Keyboard Shortcuts from the options
Choose the category you want to modify
Select the function you want to change
Press the new key combination
Click OK to save changes

Shortcut Categories:

File Operations: File menu shortcuts
Edit Operations: Edit menu shortcuts
View Operations: View menu shortcuts
Image Operations: Image menu shortcuts
Layer Operations: Layer menu shortcuts
Select Operations: Select menu shortcuts
Tools: Tool selection shortcuts
Filters: Filter menu shortcuts
Windows: Window management shortcuts

Advanced Shortcut Management

Creating Custom Shortcuts:

Function Selection: Choose the function to assign a shortcut
Key Combination: Press the desired key combination
Conflict Resolution: Handle conflicts with existing shortcuts
Shortcut Testing: Test new shortcuts before saving
Shortcut Documentation: Document custom shortcuts

Shortcut Organization:

Logical Grouping: Group related shortcuts together
Consistent Patterns: Use consistent patterns for similar functions
Easy to Remember: Choose shortcuts that are easy to remember
Avoid Conflicts: Ensure shortcuts don't conflict with system shortcuts

Shortcut Best Practices

Efficiency Tips:

Learn Gradually: Don't try to learn all shortcuts at once
Practice Regularly: Use shortcuts consistently to build muscle memory
Customize for Your Workflow: Adapt shortcuts to your specific needs
Use Context Menus: Right-click for quick access to functions

Common Patterns:

Ctrl+: File and edit operations
Shift+: Alternative or extended operations
Alt+: Menu access and navigation
Function Keys: F1-F12 for special functions
Single Letters: Tool selection and quick access

Name		Name	Last commit message	Last commit date
Latest commit History 13 Commits
README.md		README.md

Michal12321424/awesome-gimp

Folders and files

Latest commit

History

Repository files navigation

Mastering GIMP: From Fundamentals to Professional Workflow

Introduction

What is GIMP?

GIMP vs Other Image Editing Software

Professional Use Cases

File Format Support

System Requirements

Brief History and Evolution of GIMP

GIMP as Free and Open Source Software

Core Capabilities and Use Cases of GIMP

Who Uses GIMP: Artists, Designers, Photographers

Course Overview and Objectives

Learning Outcomes

Beginner Level (1-2 months)

Intermediate Level (3-4 months)

Advanced Level (5-6 months)

Professional Skills

Industry-Specific Techniques

Structure of the Guide and Navigation Tips

How to Set Up a Productive Learning Environment

Recommended Hardware and Software Setup

How to Contribute to GIMP Development

Installation and Initial Setup

Downloading GIMP from Official Sources

Verifying Installer Integrity (Checksums and Signatures)

Windows Installer Verification

macOS Package Verification

Linux Package Verification

Installing GIMP on Windows

Installing GIMP on macOS

Installing GIMP on Linux (APT, DNF, Flatpak, Snap)

APT (Debian/Ubuntu)

DNF (Fedora)

Flatpak

Snap

Building GIMP from Source

First Launch and Initial Configuration

Interface Language and Locale Settings

Configuring Folders for Plug-ins, Brushes, Fonts

Backing Up GIMP Settings and Preferences

Installing Additional Resources (Brushes, Gradients, Plug-ins)

User Interface In-Depth

Understanding the Default Workspace

Single-Window Mode (Default)

Multi-Window Mode

Key Workspace Components

Workspace Customization

Single-Window vs Multi-Window Mode

Single-Window Mode

Multi-Window Mode

Switching Between Modes

Choosing the Right Mode

Toolbox Overview and Primary Tools

Toolbox Layout

Primary Tool Categories

Tool Selection Methods

Tool Options Dialog

Essential Tools for Beginners

Dockable Dialogs: Layers, Channels, Paths, Undo

Essential Dockable Dialogs

Dialog Management

Essential Dialog Combinations

Dialog Customization Tips

Tab and Dialog Customization

Creating and Managing Tabs

Advanced Tab Customization

Dialog Positioning

Workspace Layout Management

Dialog Customization Tips

Changing Themes and Icon Sets

Available Themes

Changing Interface Themes

Icon Set Customization

Customizing Icon Appearance

Advanced Theme Customization