Navigating a new molecular design platform can be daunting. When you launch SAMSON for the first time, you might be wondering: where do I start? SAMSON’s ability to simulate, visualize, and design molecular systems is broad, but getting past the initial learning curve is a common challenge. Fortunately, SAMSON offers a simple but effective solution that you might have overlooked: interactive tutorials.
These built-in guides come directly inside the software and are designed to help you learn essential workflows step-by-step, without jumping back and forth between the interface and the manual.
What are SAMSON interactive tutorials?
Interactive tutorials in SAMSON are short, task-focused guides built directly into the application. Instead of reading an external PDF or following a static webpage, these tutorials walk you through tasks within SAMSON’s actual interface. Whether you’re trying to load a molecule, run a simulation, or visualize molecular orbitals, there is a tutorial that can show you how—at your own pace.
How to access tutorials
To start learning with interactive tutorials:
- Open SAMSON.
- Go to Help > Tutorials in the top menu.
- Browse the list of available tutorials.
- Select a tutorial and click Start tutorial.
The tutorial then displays contextual tips right in the SAMSON interface, guiding you exactly where to click, what to do next, and explaining what each action means. It’s a hands-on approach ideal for visual learners and users who learn best by doing.
Stopping and restarting a tutorial
If you want to exit a tutorial, all you have to do is close the tip window in the top-right corner of the Viewport. At any point, you can revisit the same tutorial by going back to Help > Tutorials and launching it again. It makes re-learning or reviewing a topic quick and convenient.
Why use these tutorials?
Many molecular modelers spend time searching for the right tool or interpreting documentation for basic tasks. SAMSON’s tutorials reduce that time significantly. The guidance is built right into the UI, meaning you don’t need to constantly switch windows or keep browser tabs open. Plus, the tutorials are timed to your clicks—you don’t have to rush or worry about missing steps.
Also, if you’re extending SAMSON with modules or customizing it for specific workflows, check out the SAMSON Extensions Tutorials as well. These are also available online and offer structured training on using additional SAMSON functionalities.
Integrating helpful, step-by-step instruction directly into the software removes one of the most common barriers in molecular modeling: the long time it takes to become productive. Whether you’re a new user or returning after a break, SAMSON’s interactive tutorials can save you time and reduce frustration.
To learn more about the tutorials available in SAMSON, visit the official documentation page here: 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.