Mapping graphics instructions to associated graphics data during performance analysis

In general, this disclosure relates to techniques for optimizing a graphics scene, such as a three-dimensional (3D) scene, by allowing application developers and/or graphics artists to identify which graphics instructions and associated graphics data (e.g., polygonal data, texture data) may be associated with identified performance issues. One example method comprises receiving mapping information from the external device, wherein the mapping information includes information to map the graphics instructions to primitive graphics data that is used to render one or more graphics images during execution of the graphics instructions, and identifying a performance issue associated with execution of at least one graphics instruction within the graphics instructions. The method further comprises using the mapping information to identify a portion of the primitive graphics data that is associated with the performance issue based upon execution of the at least one graphics instruction.