# Getting Started

If you already have your CAD file ready-to-go in Fusion 360, you can skip directly to the [Appearances ](https://renders360.gitbook.io/ftc-rendering-in-fusion-360/assigning-appearances)section. If not, this section will discuss how you can export your CAD file from another software and import it into Fusion. 

{% content-ref url="assigning-appearances" %}
[assigning-appearances](https://renders360.gitbook.io/ftc-rendering-in-fusion-360/assigning-appearances)
{% endcontent-ref %}

Once you have a CAD model that you would like to render, export it as a .STEP file. This process will vary depending on what software you used. 

The next step is importing it into Fusion, which is a simple process. Select *Open* in the drop-down menu or press *ctrl* + *O* on your keyboard. Locate the .STEP file of the object you wish to render and select it. 

![Opening a .STEP file](https://3851494055-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-legacy-files/o/assets%2F-MXdjswC1LObZYU1tMYC%2F-MXoRkYy7tiOd9VhwtHc%2F-MXoTur_grbw1V3mZxeO%2F068ef2d3f7dc5ba7674b109cf18f891d%20\(1\).gif?alt=media\&token=2e164cbf-229a-4f1b-a566-1cd62a4e5e23)

After this, you can open the drop-down menu in the top left-hand corner and switch from the *Design* tab to the *Render* tab*.*

![Switching from the "Design" tab to the "Render" tab](https://3851494055-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-legacy-files/o/assets%2F-MXdjswC1LObZYU1tMYC%2F-MXoRkYy7tiOd9VhwtHc%2F-MXoTZQLF1hmglKL22yz%2F111db609143c32e89d5b730e336504b6%20\(1\).gif?alt=media\&token=d419bcee-34e9-4756-9cc1-d0666d30131b)

You are now ready for the next step!