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# Interaction Forms

Textual and numeric interaction with the MGED editor is the most precise editing paradigm because it allows exact manipulation of known configurations. This works well when the user is designing the model from an existing drawing, or when all dimensions are known (or are computable) in advance.

The use of a tablet or mouse, knob-box or dial-box, buttons, and a joystick are all simultaneously supported by MGED for analog inputs. Direct graphic interaction via a ``point-push-pull'' editing paradigm tends to be better for prototyping, developing arbitrary geometry, and fitting together poorly specified configurations. Having both types of interaction capability available at all times allows the user to select the style of interaction that best meets his immediate requirements.