Final answer:
To select all objects within a specific layer without using the Selection tool, you can use keyboard shortcuts or the right-click menu option.
Step-by-step explanation:
To select all objects contained within a specific layer without using the Selection tool in software like Adobe Photoshop or Illustrator, you can use keyboard shortcuts. Press Ctrl + A (or Command + A on a Mac) to select all objects on the layer. Another method is to right-click on the layer in the Layers palette and choose the 'Select All' option.
Once all objects are selected, you can perform various actions on them, such as moving or resizing them, applying filters or effects, or changing their properties.