# Image Training

For image training PatMax uses all of the information in the pattern training image you supply. You should avoid including features in the training image that will not be present in the run-time image.

In order to train a pattern from a pattern training image, the image must contain distinguishable features. For best results, you should observe the following guidelines when selecting a training image:

- The pattern should include both coarse and fine features.

- The pattern should include information that will let PatMax distinguish instances that vary in all enabled degrees of freedom. The following figure shows examples of patterns that might lead to degenerate results.

  Degree of Freedom | Potentially confusing patterns | Less confusing patterns
  --- | --- | ---
  Scale |  |
  Rotation |  |

PatMax can return diagnostic information at training time that indicates whether a trained pattern is potentially degenerate in a particular degree of freedom. See Pattern Training Information Strings.

See the following topics for more information: