QIDI Slicer "Plater" is blank

[Aughtago]

my first printer, i have successfully printed the built in g-code samples from QIDI Slicer, and downloaded g-code calibration files from teachingtech and printed them. I am now trying to import my first STL and slice it, but my Plater screen is pure white with no Grid, no object, and no tools shown like in the user manual. Am i missing some simple "View" setting? do I have to re-install? or am I just an Idiot?