Graphics Programs Reference
In-Depth Information
Clicking the icon at the end of the Command line opens the Script Editor, in which
you can enter more complicated MEL or Python commands and scripts.
Below the Command line is the Help line. This bar provides a quick reference for
almost everything on the screen. For the most part, it's a readout of functions when you
point to icons. It also prompts you for the next step in a particular function or the next
required input for a task's completion.
The Help line is very useful when you're not really sure about the next step in a com-
mand, such as which object to select next or which key to press to execute the command.
You'll be surprised by how much you'll learn about tool functions by reading the prompts
displayed here.
Panels and Frequently Used Windows
The main focus of Maya is, of course, its work windows (called
panels
)—the perspec-
tive and orthographic views. You use these windows to create, manipulate, and view 3D
objects, particles, and animations. By using the mouse, you can navigate in these views
easily. Navigation in almost all panel views involves a combination of mouse control and
keyboard input.
Perspective/Orthographic Windows
The default Maya layout begins with a full-screen perspective view, as shown in Figure 3.10.
This is essentially a camera view and expresses real-world depth through the simulation
of perspective. In this window, you can see your creation in three dimensions and move
around it in real time to get a sense of proportion and depth.
Figure 3.10
The full
perspective view
