For molecular modelers, learning new tools or workflows can sometimes feel daunting, especially when navigating complex platforms like SAMSON. Wouldn't it be helpful to practice directly inside the software, guided step-by-step? Interactive tutorials in SAMSON address this exact challenge, offering a user-friendly way to familiarize yourself with workflows and reinforce your skills.
What Are Interactive Tutorials?
Interactive tutorials are built-in guides in SAMSON that walk you through tasks while you're inside the platform. Rather than just reading instructions, you'll perform actions directly in the application, making it easier to understand and retain new concepts and workflows.
These tutorials are particularly helpful if you're trying SAMSON for the first time, or if you're tackling a specific task but are unsure where to start. For example, instead of reading a generic guide on molecular docking, imagine actually going through the process step-by-step, guided by SAMSON itself.
When to Use Them
Interactive tutorials are optional, but they're most useful after you've explored the basic interface and features of SAMSON. If you've already gone through sections like Moving around and Loading molecules, you'll have the foundational skills you need. From there, tutorials become an excellent way to refine specific workflows.
For example, if you're exploring molecular modeling but aren't confident with a certain operation, a tutorial matching your immediate need can help you learn by doing. After completing a tutorial, you should be able to perform tasks independently or know where to find detailed documentation to support you.
How to Start and Stop a Tutorial
Starting a tutorial is straightforward:
- Go to Help > Tutorials from the main menu.
- Select the tutorial you want to explore.
- Click Start tutorial.
Once you start, SAMSON will guide you using tutorial tips. These tips will appear in the top-right corner of the Viewport, ensuring you can follow along without disrupting your work. If you need to stop, you can simply close the tutorial tip window. Tutorials are always restartable from the Help > Tutorials section, so you can revisit them anytime!
Why Interactive Tutorials Stand Out
The main advantage of using these tutorials is the ability to practice workflows in real scenarios. Instead of theory-heavy learning, they enable hands-on experience. For instance, you can switch from a passive learning mode to an active one, bridging the gap between understanding a feature and executing it.
Moreover, the tutorials integrate seamlessly into your workflow. They don’t distract but instead enhance your transition to becoming proficient in SAMSON. Once you’ve completed a guided session, you can confidently repeat the process yourself—without relying on the tutorial window.
Learn More
Interactive tutorials are just one of the many tools SAMSON offers to streamline molecular design. Whether you're new to the platform or looking to refine a specific skill, they are invaluable for leveling up your expertise. For a detailed walkthrough of SAMSON interactive tutorials, visit the documentation page.
*Note: SAMSON and all SAMSON Extensions are free for non-commercial use. You can get SAMSON at SAMSON Connect.