This is an introductory guide to help beginning and intermediate users gain the upper hand on 3ds max, a professional 3D graphics software which is used by an estimated 170,000 animators in film, television, games and other industries. It covers the essentials such as the 3ds max interface, navigation and display tools, then moves on to modelling, modifiers, mapping surfaces, rendering, using lighting and creating 3D animations. Covering the essentials, the book takes the reader from zero or limited 3D software experience to a position of familiarity with 3ds max and general knowledge of what 3D design is all about.