> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.siminsights.com/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.siminsights.com/hyperskill-studio-authoring/state-machine-reference.md).

# State machine reference

Triggers, transitions, conditions and actions: how a simulation reacts to what a learner does.

## Overview

The state machine controls how a simulation reacts to what a learner does. This section is the reference for its building blocks:

* [Scenario Flow](/hyperskill-studio-authoring/state-machine-reference/scenario-flow.md): step-by-step interactions that can branch, built from states and transitions.
* [Rules](/hyperskill-studio-authoring/state-machine-reference/rules.md): global interactions that are always active.
* [Triggers](/hyperskill-studio-authoring/state-machine-reference/triggers.md): the interactions that advance a Scenario Flow or fire a Rule.
* [Conditions](/hyperskill-studio-authoring/state-machine-reference/conditions.md): attribute checks that must pass before a transition or action takes place.