biostudies-literatureHaller BCNational Institutes of HealthNIGMS NIH HHS1101-1109https://www.ebi.ac.uk/biostudies/studies/S-EPMC6501880biostudies-literatureUnknown36(5)The SLiM forward genetic simulation framework has proved to be a powerful and flexible tool for population genetic modeling. However, as a complex piece of software with many features that allow simulating a diverse assortment of evolutionary models, its initial learning curve can be difficult. Here we provide a step-by-step demonstration of how to build a simple evolutionary model in SLiM 3, to help new users get started. We will begin with a panmictic neutral model, and build up to a model of the evolution of a polygenic quantitative trait under selection for an environmental phenotypic optimum.Molecular biology and evolutionEvolutionary Modeling in SLiM 3 for Beginners.PMC6501880R01GM127418R01 GM127418Haller BCMesser PWfalseEvolutionary Modeling in SLiM 3 for Beginners.The SLiM forward genetic simulation framework has proved to be a powerful and flexible tool for population genetic modeling. However, as a complex piece of software with many features that allow simulating a diverse assortment of evolutionary models, its initial learning curve can be difficult. Here we provide a step-by-step demonstration of how to build a simple evolutionary model in SLiM 3, to help new users get started. We will begin with a panmictic neutral model, and build up to a model of the evolution of a polygenic quantitative trait under selection for an environmental phenotypic optimum.2019-01-01T00:00:00Z2019 May2025-05-29T21:52:25.9Z2025-05-29T21:52:25.9ZS-EPMC65018803059056010.1093/molbev/msy237