> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://sloyd.gitbook.io/documentation/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://sloyd.gitbook.io/documentation/3d-tools/animate.md).

# Animate

Animate mode lets you turn a humanoid character into a moving 3D model using ready-made animations, your own text prompt, or a reference video.

{% hint style="warning" %}
Animation only works on **humanoid** characters in a **T-pose** or **A-pose**. See the [Character Rigging Guide](/documentation/3d-tools/animate/character-rigging-guide.md) for what makes a model animatable.
{% endhint %}

## Quick steps

{% stepper %}
{% step %}

## Open Animate mode

Open a model, then switch to **Animate**.
{% endstep %}

{% step %}

## Add motion

* **Premade Animations**: pick a ready-made motion (Walk, Run, Idle, Jump, and more).
* **Prompt Animations**: describe in text how you'd like the character to move.
* [**Video Animations**](/documentation/3d-tools/animate/video-motion.md) (Pro): upload a reference video and Sloyd transfers the motion onto your character.

Sloyd automatically rigs the character the first time you animate it. You don't need to rig anything yourself.
{% endstep %}

{% step %}

## Preview

Play the animation to preview it. Use the **In place** toggle to keep the character centered instead of moving across the scene.
{% endstep %}

{% step %}

## Export

Export a baked clip. Common formats:

* FBX
* GLTF / GLB
  {% endstep %}
  {% endstepper %}

{% hint style="info" %}
Baked export means the motion is saved into the file. The exact options depend on the export format.
{% endhint %}

## Notes

* If a character can't be animated, see the [Character Rigging Guide](/documentation/3d-tools/animate/character-rigging-guide.md).