back to foldit 101
Before we get into the types and levels of puzzles there are a few things which are common to many puzzles which deserve a few words:
Other interesting things
Secondary Structure (SS)
Sheets helixes (helices) and loops – most puzzles show the predicted secondary structure, you can change these using Structure Mode, usually folders are asked to stay close to the predicted secondary structure.
Multipart Structures
Some puzzles are made up of one large and one or more smaller parts, try to make them bond well together. Puzzles may only provide a section or fragment of a protein to focus on the area of interest of the puzzle design. Usually design or mini puzzles but may be in a standard puzzle.
Tip: Google Ligand and Paratope for explanations of these small pieces and how they work.
Warning: Some of the older recipes may not work on multipart puzzles.
Constraints
Thin red lines may appear between parts of the protein, these are Constraints and severely restrict the pose of the puzzle to meet the needs of the puzzle design, constraints can be stretched but not broken. Usually the puzzle will feel stiffer and slower. Constraints are not used on beginner puzzles.