7 Tips to Master Figma: Simplify Your UX Design Process

Since Figma was first publicly released in 2016, it has become an increasingly popular tool. Designers love Figma as it can be used across devices and has collaboration features allowing designers to collaborate in real-time. 

Whether you’re new to the world of design or more experienced and looking to brush up, these tips will simplify your Figma experience and turn you into a more proficient UX designer.

Tip 1: Auto Layout Mastery

Auto layouts are your best friend in Figma, saving you valuable time and making your designs more consistent. Start by selecting multiple icons or elements and use the shortcut Shift + A to convert them into an auto layout. Make it reusable by turning it into a component with Command + Option + K (Mac) or Control + Alt + K (PC). Adding padding and adjusting spacing is easy—just double-click to switch between fixed and auto sizes.

Tip 2: Making Color Styles Simple 

Transforming colors into styles in Figma can be tedious, but it doesn't have to be. Discover how to use plugins like "Color Levels Generator" to streamline this process. Simply paste your colors, name them appropriately, and save them as styles. Now, applying consistent and visually appealing color schemes across your designs is effortless.

Tip 3: Embrace the Power of Grids 

Grids are essential for maintaining design consistency, whether you're working on web interfaces or mobile apps. Learn how to create and customize grids in Figma to ensure even spacing and alignment. Use shortcuts like Shift + G to toggle grids on and off and Option/Alt key to measure distances precisely.

Tip 4: Frame Mastery for Efficient Design 

Frames are where you'll spend most of your time in Figma. Use shortcuts like Shift + 2 to zoom in on selected frames and N key to toggle between container frames. Mastering these shortcuts will help you navigate large projects effortlessly and impress your colleagues with your efficiency.

Tip 5: Accessibility Made Easy 

Don't overlook accessibility in your designs. Explore plugins like "Contrast" to ensure your color choices meet accessibility standards. Learn how simple adjustments can significantly improve readability and usability for all users, regardless of their abilities.

Tip 6: File Management Like a Pro 

Navigate through Figma files like a boss with keyboard shortcuts. Use Command + 1, 2, 3, 4 (Mac) or Control + 1, 2, 3, 4 (PC) to jump between tabs and Control + Tab to cycle through them. Discover how to split your screen for efficient multitasking and keep your workspace organized.

Tip 7: Harness the Power of Variables 

Unlock the full potential of Figma with variables. Simplify prototyping and interactive design by using variables to control elements dynamically. Whether you're adjusting text sizes or simulating user interactions, mastering variables will take your prototypes to the next level.

There you have it—seven actionable tips to conquer Figma and enhance your UX design skills. By mastering auto layouts, grids, color styles, and more, you'll streamline your workflow and create designs that are both visually stunning and user-friendly. 

Take your Figma skills to the next level by exploring my courses Figma UI UX Design Essentials and Figma Advanced Tutorial.  When you join BYOL, you gain access to all my Figma Courses as well as 30+ additional courses on Photoshop,  Lightroom, Premiere Pro, Webflow, and more. As a BYOL member you will also enjoy personalized support, earn certificates, and tackle exciting community challenges. 

See you in class! – Dan