This first image shows how a set of geometric objects can be displayed, or rendered, on the computer. A model of the object is created to store the locations, or coordinates, of corner points. Each side of an object is treated as a flat surface bordered by three or more outlined edges. The computer is used to calculate how each object appears in perspective view, and then to draw the outlines on the screen. This image is drawn in what is called wireframe mode, as if the object had been assembled as a framework of straight wires.

By a process called hidden line removal, only the portions of the edges visible to the viewer are drawn. The effect simplifies understanding complex scenes by eliminating overlapping lines, and makes objects look solid.

Using shading on the object surfaces visible to the viewer further improves our ability to interpret their shapes and positions.