There are a few basic books that may help with understanding Photoshop. The "visual quickstart guide" books usually cover the fundamentals. They usually run towards the $20 (more-or-less). It takes you throught the app in a "step-by-step" approach with screenshots/pictures as a guide. Give one of them a "look-see" at any Borders, B&N or your local bookstore. see ya' around :) scott