CGProShop - MaxScript Fundamentals 1: Variables, Macroscripts and Functions

In this first DVD in our MAXScript Fundamentals series Laszlo will take you through the first principles of MAXScript, such as Variables, Properties, For Loops, Flow Control, making your code into a MacroScript for easier access on your toolbars, Functions and how to make your own custom Functions from your own MAXScript code.

This DVD is aimed at an intermediate 3dsmax user who wants to harness the power of MAXScript and at those moving over to 3dmax from another platform that need to transfer their scripting skills. MAXScript will allow you to both to make your workflow easier via custom tools, and also to push beyond any limits placed on you by the systems GUI. Note: No previous programming or scripting experience is needed for this DVD.

Topics Covered

Ch 01: What is MAXScript
Laszlo explains what a scripting language is and how MAXScript fits into this picture.

Ch 02:Accessing the MAXScript Listener
Laszlo explains what the MAXScript listener is and how can we access it.

Ch 03: Basic Concepts – Variables
An introduction to some of the basic concepts involved in scripting, starting here with Variables.

Ch 04: Properties
What are object properties?

Ch 05: Functions
What are Functions, what can we do with them?

Ch 06: Evaluation
Laszlo explains how a line of MAXScript is evaluated by 3dsmax and what implications evaluation has on our scripting.

Ch 07: Script Editor & Macro Scripts
An introduction to the Script Editor and Macroscripts.

Ch 08: The Tree Creator Script
Laszlo starts a practical tutorial on how to make a script to populate a plane with fir tree models.

Ch 09: Class Definitions & Property Inheritance
Within the Tree tutorial Laszlo explains what Class Definitions are and how Property Inheritance works.

Ch 10: Function Definitions
We need functions to make our Tree Creator script work, Laszlo runs through how to do so here.

Ch 11: Accessing Data & Simple Matrix Maths
How can we access the vertex data for the tree landscape mesh and then position the trees on those verts using some basic Matrix math.

Ch 12: Controlling Script Flow, For Cycles
We need to repeat the tree placement action for each vertex , so here Laszlo shows how For Cycles can be used to do so.

Ch 13: Fool-Proofing Your Scripts
So now our Tree script works, here Laszlo shows how we can put measures in place to stop errors occurring with it when in practical use.

Ch 14: Scripting Tips and Tricks
Laszlo finishes off by running through a number concepts, tricks and tricks that can help you when writing your own first MAXScripts.

Reviews & Customer Feedback

"It's impossible to fault the tutor's approach to teaching first-time scripters on this disc. Each process is well thought out and designed, from introduction to conclusion. It's very informative and key details are reiterated whenever necessary. As with the other CG Academy DVDs, audio and video quality are high.. This is a superb example of how DVD training should be done and it's seriously worthwhile if you've always wanted to delve into scripting but were afraid to do so. "
3D World Magazine Review (September 2005 edition, Page 96)