The lessons in the manual teach you the fundamentals of using 3ds Max 7 and some additional topics that begin your journey to the next level. This book complements the Fundamentals Instructional Standards developed for the Discreet Certified Trainer Program. These standards were developed with industry experts from professional studios using 3ds Max in their work.The book is modular in form, and consists of the following: overview, animation, modeling, materials, lighting and rendering, and a scenario or project module. While the book is organized in a particular sequence, once you cover the overview module, you can use the remainder of the modules in any order. The manual includes exercises and lab chapters that show you how to put theory into practice. Once you complete the lessons, you are ready to apply 3ds Max to your own work.