A familiar molecular-modeling task can come with an unfamiliar question: Where is the exact reference for this part of SAMSON? You may know that you need to check a file format, understand a node category, or find a setting—but not know which documentation section contains the answer. Starting from a broad search can turn a small lookup into a detour.
The SAMSON References hub is designed for a specific moment: you already know the feature family you need and want a direct route to its detailed reference. Think of it as a map for choosing the right shelf, rather than a step-by-step guide to completing a workflow.
Start with the kind of question you have
Before opening a reference page, describe your question in a few words. That small step helps you match it to a family:
- What can I import or export? Go to Supported formats for format coverage, or to the Importers and Exporters references for those extension families.
- What kind of item am I looking at? Use Node types to identify document node categories. For how documents are organized—including folders, files, notes, and paths—use Documents.
- Where is an interface control or shortcut? The SAMSON Interface reference covers menus, panels, workspaces, and shortcuts.
- Which settings can I change? Look in Preferences.
- How do I express a more advanced selection or filter? The Node Specification Language reference is the relevant destination.
- Am I looking for a visual or presentation element? Check Visual presets, Default color palettes, or Animations, depending on the question.
Choose a reference, not a workflow guide
A useful distinction: a reference page is best when you want to look up a known feature or category. If you are still deciding what to do next, the reference hub points you toward Reference and help, which helps you choose between references, FAQs, and troubleshooting. If you need initial orientation rather than a precise lookup, start with First look: the interface.
That distinction saves time because it avoids asking a lookup page to solve a planning problem. For example, if you already know you need information about cameras, go straight to Camera. If you are still learning how SAMSON is laid out, get oriented first, then return to the hub when you have a more specific question.
Keep the hub as your return point
Not every question fits neatly into one category. A task involving a structural object, a view, and an extension might lead you to consult several references. Rather than trying to find one page that covers everything, use the hub to move between relevant families: Models for model categories, Sequence view for sequence-based views, or Apps and Editors for those extension families. For version and compatibility conventions, consult Versioning.
The practical habit is simple: name the question, identify its feature family, and open that reference. If you are not sure which family applies, use the help or orientation pages first. This turns the reference hub into a reliable starting point for focused lookups without confusing a catalog of information with a tutorial.
Explore the SAMSON References hub to find the detailed page for your next lookup.
Note: SAMSON and all SAMSON Extensions are free for non-commercial use. Get SAMSON.