When starting with molecular modeling, mastering complex software interfaces can be daunting. SAMSON, an integrative molecular design platform, offers a unique feature to address this challenge: interactive tutorials. These tutorials provide hands-on guidance within the application itself, making it easier to learn essential workflows in a practical and engaging way.
What are Interactive Tutorials?
Interactive tutorials are in-app guides that walk users through specific tasks. Whether you’re navigating the software for the first time or exploring advanced features, these tutorials allow you to practice directly within SAMSON, making the learning process both intuitive and effective. For example, you can start a tutorial, follow the on-screen tips, and interact with the software as you would during a real project.
Why Use Interactive Tutorials?
Interactive tutorials are a significant upgrade from traditional documentation or video guides. They provide an immersive experience by allowing you to:
- Learn by doing, instead of just reading or watching.
- Focus on specific workflows tailored to your modeling needs.
- Experiment in a guided environment, reducing the chances of errors during actual projects.
Not sure when to dive into interactive tutorials? They are particularly helpful after you’ve familiarized yourself with the main interface using resources like the First look: the interface guide. Once you’re ready to practice concrete workflows, interactive tutorials are your next step.
How to Start an Interactive Tutorial
Getting started with interactive tutorials is simple:
- Open SAMSON.
- Navigate to Help > Tutorials in the main menu.
- Select the tutorial that matches your desired workflow.
- Click Start tutorial to begin.
While the tutorial is active, you’ll find helpful tips displayed in the interface to guide you step by step. Completed one? You’re now equipped to use the workflow independently!
How to Stop or Restart Tutorials
Sometimes, you might want to pause or restart a tutorial. To stop a tutorial, simply close the tutorial tip window in the top-right corner of the Viewport. If you wish to revisit the content from scratch, you can restart the tutorial any time from the Help > Tutorials menu.
Tips for Maximizing Tutorial Benefits
Here are a few tips to make the most out of SAMSON’s interactive tutorials:
- Start with general interface guides like Moving around and Loading molecules before diving into tutorials.
- Repeat the demonstrated workflows independently to solidify your learning.
- Explore relevant SAMSON Extensions Tutorials for expanding your expertise with additional tools.
Next Steps
Interactive tutorials are just one aspect of the rich learning ecosystem provided by SAMSON. Once you’ve completed tutorials, consider advancing your skills by exploring features like Loading molecules or experimenting with SAMSON AI for intelligent guidance through the platform.
To learn more, visit the full documentation page on Interactive Tutorials.
SAMSON and all SAMSON Extensions are free for non-commercial use. Get SAMSON today at www.samson-connect.net.