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How do I change object mode in Blender?

Published in Blender Modes 2 mins read

You can change object mode in Blender primarily using the Tab key or the mode selection dropdown menu.

Here's a breakdown of how to switch between Object Mode and other modes like Edit Mode:

Methods for Changing Modes

  • Using the Tab Key: With your object selected in the 3D Viewport, press the Tab key. This will toggle between Object Mode and the last used "edit" mode (often Edit Mode). This is the fastest and most common method.

  • Using the Mode Selection Menu: In the top-left corner of the 3D Viewport, you'll find a dropdown menu that displays the current mode (e.g., "Object Mode"). Click on this menu to see a list of available modes, such as Edit Mode, Sculpt Mode, Vertex Paint, Weight Paint, Texture Paint, etc. Select the desired mode from the list.

Example: Switching to Edit Mode

  1. Select the Object: Make sure the object you want to modify is selected in the 3D Viewport. You'll know it's selected when it has an orange outline.
  2. Press Tab or Use the Dropdown: Either press the Tab key or click the mode selection dropdown and choose "Edit Mode."
  3. Modify the Object: Once in Edit Mode, you can modify the object's geometry (vertices, edges, faces).
  4. Return to Object Mode: Press Tab again or use the dropdown to switch back to Object Mode. In Object Mode, you can move, rotate, scale, and duplicate the entire object.

Important Notes

  • You can only change modes for selected objects. If nothing is selected, you cannot switch to Edit Mode.
  • The available modes will depend on the object type. For example, you can't enter Edit Mode for a camera or light.
  • Blender's interface is customizable, so the location of the Mode Selection Menu might be different in your setup, though it's typically in the top-left of the 3D Viewport.