> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://ejong.gitbook.io/3d-data-for-researchers/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://ejong.gitbook.io/3d-data-for-researchers/learning-material/tinkercad/how-it-works.md).

# How it works

The best way to learn TinkerCAD is to play around with it! To get you started, using TinkerCAD can be broken down to 3 easy steps:

#### 1. Place

![](https://2683392450-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-legacy-files/o/assets%2F-M34VGqY2RzPJqnHhhg1%2F-M5PZkyVyG09nccNGMQ0%2F-M5PhL-5pHcOz3QtK2Fv%2Fplace.jpg?alt=media\&token=182731cd-28b7-48e1-9b88-4c67249c960a)

Shapes are basic building blocks of Tinkercad. A shape can add or remove material. Import your own, or work with existing shapes.

#### 2. Adjust

![](https://2683392450-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-legacy-files/o/assets%2F-M34VGqY2RzPJqnHhhg1%2F-M5PZkyVyG09nccNGMQ0%2F-M5PhOrOfeNdC_HtSBHg%2Fadjust.jpg?alt=media\&token=b165b2a6-96b8-4ed6-8591-a5788ee3174d)

Move, rotate and adjust shapes freely in space. Use tools like the ruler to input exact dimensions.

#### 3. Combine

![](https://2683392450-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-legacy-files/o/assets%2F-M34VGqY2RzPJqnHhhg1%2F-M5PZkyVyG09nccNGMQ0%2F-M5PhRhio-Y4DT6jCGoA%2Fcombine.jpg?alt=media\&token=60b3b687-5792-4e23-a993-046c4e7b6560)

Group together a set of shapes to create models as detailed as you want.