TABLE OF CONTENTS Now, let s look at an example of using layers. Later in the book we ll look at using Timeline Effects to automatically create drop shadows. However, creating them manually gives you a lot more control and creativity over the whole process.
Duplicate it 
/CTRL + D or SHIFT + ALT + drag selection makes a copy with the Selection tool.
Cut ( /CTRL + X) and paste ( /CTRL + V) and put your shadow on a layer below.
While the shape is still selected, change the fill to a dark color and change alpha transparency in the Color Mixer panel to a low figure in this example I used 30%.
Creating a Drop Shadow
Modify > Shape > Soften Fill Edges (but beware as this can take time to process and add to the file size in the case of complex shapes). In the example I used a Distance of 5 pixels and Number of steps 5. Select your shadow and its new softened edge and Modify > Group to keep all the elements together.
Positioning the Drop Shadow
Rotate and Skew Options
Examine where the light in your picture is coming from, offset by a few pixels and use the Rotate and Skew options in the Free Transform tool to position your shadow correctly.
