Hi guys and gal(s),

I'm currently writing a tutorial on the best practices for modding Generals/ZH and I'd like you (the community) to give me your input. For example are there any time-saving methods you have? Do you know any easy way to get around a particular problem. Or more importantly, is there are common mistake that new modders make that you think should be avoided?

One of my time saving steps is to have what I call a "skeleton entry" of the files I commonly edit. In the case of weapon.ini I have a file called weapon.txt with all the weapon values used. This way I can COPY->PASTE the new entry into weapon.ini, edit the values I need and comment out the ones I don't need.

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I always have trouble when making a map.ini and using the replace module code. If your tutorial could explain it in detail when and how to use it that would be great.

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I'll add that to the list.

Come on people we're making a bid to have every bit of Generals/ZH covered.

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Here is a few off the top of my head:

Notepad/Edit/Find. Small, but definitely useful when going through lots of values in the INI files looking for what you need. You can waste alot of time not using it depending on the file size.

Backups. This is a good idea if you play more than one mod. I have a folder on my desktop called "ZH Mods" which has a bunch of sub folders that contains ZH and whatever mods I play (The ZH folders with the mods installed.). This takes up a good amount of disk space but it is much easier to cut and paste every time you want to play a mod instead of having to install and uninstall each mod. It is also a good way to keep ZH safe and avoid reinstalls while you use other copies of the game folder for modding, just incase you mess up with your own mod or can't remove a mod.

common places to find and host mods? e.g. www.moddb.com
also links to other tutorials that go more in depth in a perticuler subject

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Not bad guys.
@AA2 - Edit > find has been incorporated+ there are some key strokes that are well kept secrets.

www.moddb.com will be fit in somewhere.

*topic name changed to be more detailed*

EDIT - are there any other trade secrets out there? It can be any little thing.

For example adding the "-quickstart" command.

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I find that when modeling looking over others models often helps me to improve them and getting others to look over mine helps give me tips and a list of inporvments.

I just made a frount cover for the book, http://img249.imageshack.us/img249/4200/moddingfordummieszh5.jpg 

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