Advice for a Beginner Looking to Learn Blender

Hi everyone,

I’m new to Blender and very excited to start learning. I have some basic knowledge of 3D modeling but no experience with Blender itself. My main goal is to learn how to create 3D models for games and animations.

Could anyone recommend a structured learning path or specific tutorials that are great for beginners? I’m particularly interested in modeling and texturing but open to exploring other areas too. Also, any tips on how to stay motivated and track progress would be greatly appreciated!

Thanks in advance for your help!

The best way to learn is by doing things.

Set yourself a goal-project and deep dive into it.
You will learn new things on the way.
Quantum proportions are good: 85% of time for doing / 15% of time for tutorials.

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unless it’s about the basics (how to navigate the viewport, rotate, move, etc.), when watching tutorials, don’t stop the video every 10 seconds to repeat what the author did. You’ll understand better if you watch a portion of the video before trying it yourself. Following a tutorial step by step makes it harder to remember the process, which can make it difficult to complete your own similar projects later.

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There -should- be a starter series on how to use Blender on the YT channel of the Blender Foundation.
That will get you going I guess. :slight_smile:

edit: It’s for 2.8 but relevant for all later versions as well:
Blender Fundamentals 2.8 - YouTube

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One thing that I keep, when working on any (!) project, is a project journal. (I call it my [Star Trek] … “Captain’s Log.”) Sometimes it has been a directory of simple text files – in the past it has been a loose-leaf notebook and a number-two pencil.

Write in it every day. Got a new question? Write it down, right now, in your own words. Now, you have captured it: it can’t get away. But you can now come back to it when you’re ready. Leave a little space also to write in the answer when you find it.

Use your journal to break down your learning task into smaller steps, and then to record your progress (or, lack thereof) towards each step.

When trying to learn to do something, go for the simplest Blend-file that “actually does it.” Write it down in your journal, and save the file (forever).

Finally: You are going to have the experience of “Taking A Sip From the Fire Hose.” There’s a lot to learn. And, that’s where that “Captain’s Log” can help you.

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