When exploring complex molecular modeling software, it’s all too easy to run into a wall. Whether you’re a student trying to learn the basics of molecular visualization, or a researcher transitioning from legacy tools, the steep learning curve can be frustrating and time-consuming.
One of the common challenges among molecular modelers is figuring out how to actually do something in a new modeling environment. From setting up simulations to analyzing molecular interactions, there’s often a gap between reading documentation and putting it into practice. This is where interactive learning can make a big difference.
In SAMSON, an integrative platform for molecular design, there is a built-in solution designed to help you quickly get up to speed: Interactive Tutorials. These are not static documents or video guides – they are embedded in the platform and designed to guide you step-by-step through real tasks.
What Makes These Tutorials Effective?
Unlike traditional help guides, SAMSON’s interactive tutorials actively guide you inside the software using tip windows and context-sensitive instructions. They walk you through actual workflows in real time, letting you learn directly in the modeling environment.
To access these tutorials, follow these simple steps:
- Open SAMSON.
- Click on the menu item Help > Tutorials.
- Select a tutorial from the list.
- Click Start tutorial.
As soon as the tutorial begins, guidance tips appear directly in the Viewport, helping you complete each step. This eliminates the need to switch between documentation and the application and makes it easier to retain what you learn by doing.
Need a break or made a wrong turn? You can exit an interactive tutorial at any time by clicking the close button on the tutorial tip window in the top-right corner of the Viewport. And if you’re unsure about something, feel free to restart the tutorial at any point from the same Help menu.
A Time-Saver for Both New and Experienced Users
Whether you’re just starting with SAMSON or exploring a new area you’re unfamiliar with, interactive tutorials reduce trial-and-error. They’re practical time-savers that help you gain confidence and focus more on the science you want to do, not on figuring out how to use the software.
Also, don’t miss out on tutorials for SAMSON Extensions – many of which add specialized capabilities, from quantum chemistry calculations to advanced molecular editing. A separate tutorial section for Extensions is available here.
For more details on how to make the most of interactive tutorials in SAMSON, visit the full documentation page: https://documentation.samson-connect.net/users/latest/interactive-tutorials/
SAMSON and all SAMSON Extensions are free for non-commercial use. You can download SAMSON at https://www.samson-connect.net.