For researchers and molecular modelers, learning complex software platforms can be daunting. SAMSON offers a unique solution: interactive tutorials that serve as step-by-step guides within the application itself. These tutorials not only simplify the learning curve but also provide hands-on practice for a variety of workflows, making them especially valuable for beginners and seasoned users alike.
Why Use Interactive Tutorials?
Imagine you’re exploring the vast functionalities of SAMSON, from building molecular systems to running simulations, and you find yourself wondering how to efficiently execute a particular task. The interactive tutorials embedded within SAMSON can guide you directly inside the application. With instructions tied to specific tasks, these tutorials ensure you not only understand theoretical concepts but also gain practical knowledge through real-time application.
The tutorials are most beneficial after familiarizing yourself with SAMSON’s main interface through the First look: the interface page. Once you know your way around, the interactive tutorials act as your personal assistant, helping you practice complex workflows like loading molecules, manipulating them, or working with SAMSON AI.
Taking Your First Steps
To access a tutorial, go to Help > Tutorials within SAMSON. From there, browse the list of available tutorials, pick the one that suits your needs, and click Start tutorial. The tutorial will guide you step-by-step with tips and instructions displayed in the interface. This eliminates the need for flipping between documentation and the software—you learn as you go, right where you are.
Stopping and Restarting Tutorials
Sometimes, life happens, or you may need time to absorb the concepts before resuming. Stopping an interactive tutorial is straightforward: simply close the tutorial tip window in the top-right corner of the Viewport. Later, you can restart any tutorial by revisiting Help > Tutorials and starting fresh. This flexibility ensures that learning adapts to your pace.
Who Can Benefit?
Interactive tutorials cater to a variety of users:
- New users: Ideal for mastering the basics of SAMSON, such as navigating the interface or performing simple tasks like loading molecules.
- Experienced modelers: Great for learning advanced workflows, practicing with guided exercises, or understanding new extensions.
By the end of a tutorial, you should be able to repeat the workflow independently or consult relevant documentation pages for additional details. The interactive nature transforms passive learning into active skill-building.
Next Steps and Related Resources
If you’re exploring SAMSON for the first time, we recommend starting with Start here, a page designed to take you through the full onboarding path. From there, interactive tutorials can be your next move for more hands-on practice. Alternatively, check out SAMSON AI to leverage AI tools for tasks like command execution or script optimization.
Learn More
Interactive tutorials are your doorway to mastering SAMSON’s vast potential one step at a time. Whether you’re practicing workflows or delving into new functionalities, they act as an indispensable resource to enhance your molecular modeling skills. Learn more about SAMSON’s interactive tutorials here.
SAMSON and all SAMSON Extensions are free for non-commercial use. You can get access to SAMSON at https://www.samson-connect.net.