For students baking Unity assets from 3D models, start by prepping a clean, low-poly model (with UVs) in software like Blender, then use Unity’s Lightmapping or Texture Baking tools to merge details (e.g., ambient occlusion) into a single texture.
Baking simplifies models for Unity by moving complex details (shadows, material layers) to one texture, which helps student projects run faster on basic devices. Key steps: Fix model errors (no overlapping faces), unwrap UVs (arrange texture space), then in Unity’s Inspector, select your model, go to the “Bake” tab, choose what to bake (e.g., lighting), and save the texture.
If you’re new, practice with a simple model (like a low-poly cube) to learn UV unwrapping and baking without frustration. Unity’s free sample assets (e.g., Low Poly Environment Pack) are also great for testing baking workflows quickly.