> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://stem-docs.intellectualpoint.com/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.
# First print: bed test
> Run the square bed-level test print and learn to read the results to confirm your bed is dialed in.
## Your first real print
Now you run the **bed-level test print** - a set of squares across the bed. Reading how they turn out tells you whether your leveling is right and teaches you to spot problems that will help you all week.
During and after printing, the **nozzle and bed are hot**. Do not touch them until they cool.
`STEM_bed_level_print.gcode` - copy it to your microSD card if it is not already there.
## Run the test
On the LCD, go to **Print from TF card → STEM\_bed\_level\_print → Print**.
The screen shows "bed heating" and the nozzle warming. When it reaches temperature, it starts printing automatically. Hands off.
The printer draws a small priming line, then a series of squares across the bed. Watch the first layer closely.
## Read the results
Smooth, uniform lines that stick well and press together with no gaps. This corner is level.
Loose strands that do not stick - the nozzle is **too far** (bed too low) there. Loosen that corner's knob to raise it.
Thin, see-through, or scraped plastic - the nozzle is **too close** (bed too high) there. Tighten that corner's knob to lower it.
Filament may not be fully loaded to the extruder - reload it and re-cut a sharp tip.
## If it is not perfect
That is normal - leveling takes practice. Note which corner had the problem, adjust just that knob a little, and run the test again.
Loosen (raise) for spaghetti, tighten (lower) for faded lines - a small turn at a time.
Print the squares again and compare. Repeat until all corners look uniform.
Once cool, pop off the flexible plate and flex it, or use the scraper at the corners to lift the squares off.
When storing the flexible bed clips, put them only on the **front and back** edges - clips on the sides can get knocked off as the bed slides.
Your test print shows clean, uniform squares that stick to the bed. Your Ender 3 is calibrated and ready to print real projects. Congratulations on your first print!
## Bonus: print a 3DBenchy
Once your squares look good, print a **3DBenchy** - the little tugboat that is the world's most famous 3D-printing test. It packs overhangs, curves, text, and fine detail into one model, so it is the perfect way to show off your freshly leveled bed and spot any quality issues.
`CE3_3DBenchy.gcode` - pre-sliced for the Ender 3 with PLA. Copy it to your microSD card and print. Takes roughly **2 hours**.
Look at the boat's smooth hull, the roof overhang, and the tiny "#3DBenchy" text on the back - they tell you how well your printer is dialed in. Keep your first Benchy as a souvenir.
## Up next
Your printer works! Now set up your software - install **Cura** and **Tinkercad** - and design your first model.