Selection, tools, and actions

Selection

When you select multiple objects, the last selected object is drawn in a different color from other selected objects. This is known as the key object. Some tools use the key object to determine what to do with the selection. For example:

• When you transform multiple objects, the transformation uses the key object’s pivot point.
• The constrain actions constrain all selected objects to the key object.

Tools and actions

Maya makes a distinction between tools and actions.

• Tools work continuously: any clicks or drags you make while the tool is active apply the tool.

  For example, the selection arrow is a tool. Any clicks or drags in the view window while the selection arrow is active performs a selection.

• Actions are immediate, “one shot” operations applied to the selection. Most items in the menus are actions.

Tools appear in the Tool Box. Almost all menu items are actions, however there are some tools in the menus. You can tell which menu items are tool by the following:

• The menu item has the word Tool in it.
• When you select the tool it shows up in the Tool Box.
• Instructions appear on the help line when the tool is active.

Related topics

• Select objects or components
• Select tools and actions
• Switch operations between actions and tools