Final answer:
The correct keyboard shortcut to deselect an active selection in Photoshop is Command + D. The other shortcuts mentioned have different functions
Step-by-step explanation:
When working in Adobe Photoshop, if you need to deselect an active selection, the keyboard shortcut you would use is Command + D. The other shortcuts mentioned have different functions: Command + X will cut the selected area, Command + V will paste whatever is in the clipboard, and Command + Z will undo the last action. Therefore, the correct answer to 'What keyboard shortcut allows a Photoshop user to deselect an active selection?' is option (4) Command + D.