Issue with Duplicating Instances in 3ds Max

[qortune]

I duplicated an object as an instance, but changing the original object doesn’t affect the newly duplicated instance.

Even after restarting the program or reinstalling 3ds Max, the problem persists.

One thing I’m concerned about is that I had installed a script called "Turn to Instance," but since it didn’t work, I gave up on it. However, the issue started the next day. Still, reinstalling the software should have fixed it, right? I’m not sure what’s causing the problem.

If anyone knows how to fix this, please let me know!

[wernienst]

So, how are you duplicating objects? The most common methods are Shift+Drag and Ctrl+V. In both cases a dialog should pop up asking which type of clone - Copy/Instance/Reference. Other clone tools are also asking for type.

Open the Hotkey Editor. Maybe there is a script/macro assigned to Ctrl+V.

[qortune]

Thank you for your interest.

I hope this video helps. In the pop-up window that appears when I move while holding down the shift key, I’m selecting ‘instance’ and ‘reference’ instead of ‘copy’ as the duplicate option.

However, the objects are not linked as expected and behave as if I selected ‘copy.’

I uninstalled everything related to Autodesk from my computer and reinstalled it, but the issue persists.

I don’t understand the reason for this. I would really appreciate it if someone could let me know what the problem is.

[wernienst · Accepted solution]

There is a misunderstanding on your side. If you create an object, (kind of) an invisible XForm modifier is added automatically. So if you clone the object by shift-drag and select Instance, you eventually create an instance of the basic object (and its modifier stack) only, not the transformation.

Try this: create a box and add a XForm modifier. Now create an instance of it. Box and modifier are cloned.

Now rotate it. Only the instance is rotating.

Now select the gizmo of its XForm modifier and rotate it. Both boxes are rotating.

Please read Creating Copies, Instances, and References in the manual.

[qortune]

Oh! You’re absolutely right.
I’ve just started learning, and I must have misunderstood something.
Thanks so much for helping me realize that!