A program that translates a 3D model (STL File) into the machine instructions necessary for a 3D printer to build the 3D object. The program analyzes the 3D model and separates it into layers (or slices) and sends information to the 3D printer layer by layer. The user makes choices and selects desired settings to achieve the quality or speed preferred. Some of the choices include if a Raft or support material are to be used, and what layer thickness (resolution) to print at. Common slicing software packages include Cura, and Simplify 3D. Some 3D printers come with their own proprietary slicing software, like MakerBot, Polar3D, M3D, among others.