how to add an attack to mecanim

Hey guys I have a question how many ways do I have to add an attack to mecanim I have 3 attack animations and just wondering in script do I use a trigger or are there other ways Thanks if anyone replies

 

Have you looked at using animation "Events" within mecanim. You can call functions at specific points in the attack animation's time length. Each individual animation within your import settings should have an "Event" option. But you have to setup an animation controller for your character(s) that uses those animations (i.e. plays them when certain conditions are true or not).

You can use triggers as well to detect collisions, but I personally find using events much easier and cleaner. Unless you're talking about how to get those animations onto your character?