You can create your object model from an existing database and use the model in its default state. You can also customize many aspects of the model and its behavior.
If you are using Visual Studio, you can use the Object Relational Designer to create your object model. For more information, see How to: Create LINQ to SQL Classes Mapped to Tables and Views (O/R Designer).
Describes how to use the SQLMetal command-line tool. Also provides a link to the Object Relational Designer for Visual Studio users
Describes how to generate an external mapping file instead of using attribute-based mapping.
Describes how to generate Visual Basic or C# code from a DBML metadata file.
Describes how to validate mapping files that you have modified (advanced).
Describes how to add appropriate attributes to make entities serializable.
Describes how to use the code editor to write your own mapping code, or customize code that has been autogenerated.
Provides details about the LINQ to SQL object model.
Explains the typical steps that you follow to implement a LINQ to SQL application.
