When you need to apply the same layer style to multiple layers, it’s easy. Just create the layer style, Right-click on that layer in the Layers panel, and choose Copy Layer Style. Now, select all the layers in the Layers panel to which you wish to apply the layer style, Right-click on any of the selected layers, and choose Paste Layer Style. All the selected layers will now have that style. If you change the style, you’ll just need to copy-and-paste the style again to update it. 

Okay, here’s a better way. Wait, I’m “outtipping” my own tip? (Is “outtipping” a word?) The better way is so easy and obvious, most people don’t even think of it. Just drop all the layers into a layer group and apply the layer style to the group. “You can apply a style to a group?” Yup, and the bonus is that when you change the style, all the layers in that group update as well. It’s so easy, why didn’t I think of that? Oh wait, I did, but I wish I’d thought of it a long time ago. 

This tip previously appeared in Colin Smith’s Photoshop Tips column, in the May, 2019 issue of Photoshop User magazine.