Selecting Objects

Most actions in 3ds max are performed on selected objects in your scene. You must select an object in a viewport before you can apply a command. As a result, the act of selection is an essential part of the modeling and animation process.

This section presents the selection tools available in 3ds max. Besides the basic techniques of selecting single and multiple objects using mouse and keyboard, these topics cover the use of named selection sets and other features that help you manage object selection, such as hiding and freezing objects. Also included is an introduction to sub-object selection, essential to working with an object’s underlying geometry.

Lastly, a technique for grouping objects is presented. Grouping lets you create more permanent selections that have many of the characteristics of independent objects.

This section presents the following topics:

Introducing Object Selection

Basics of Selecting Objects

Selecting by Region

Using Select By Name

Using Named Selection Sets

Using Selection Filters

Selecting with Track View

Selecting with Schematic View

Freezing and Unfreezing Objects

Hiding and Unhiding Objects by Selection

Hiding and Unhiding Objects by Category

Isolate Selection

Introduction to Sub-Object Selection

Group Menu

Using Groups