Introduction
In the world of design, creating immersive prototypes that dynamically change based on user interactions is essential. Figma, a popular design tool, offers a powerful feature called “variables” that allows designers to achieve this level of interactivity. In this article, we will explore the concept of variables in prototypes, their benefits, and how to use them effectively.
Understanding Variables in Prototypes
In Figma, variables are stored values that represent design attributes or saved states. They can be of different types, including string, number, color, or boolean. By utilizing prototyping actions, designers can set and modify the values of these variables, enabling the creation of prototypes that respond to user selection with minimal effort.
Let’s take a closer look at the capabilities of variables in prototypes:
Update Text Content with String Variables
With string variables, you can dynamically change the text content within your prototypes. This feature is particularly useful when you want to display different variations of text based on user interactions.
Change Object Dimensions and Properties with Number Variables
Number variables allow you to modify object dimensions, corner radius, or auto layout properties within your prototypes. This flexibility enables designers to create dynamic layouts that adapt to different scenarios.
Toggle Layer Visibility with Boolean Variables
Boolean variables are ideal for controlling layer visibility within prototypes. By toggling the value of a boolean variable, designers can show or hide specific elements, providing an interactive and engaging user experience.
Getting Started with Variables in Prototypes
To begin using variables in your prototypes, you need to set them up and assign values. Follow these steps to get started:
Step 1: Create Your Variables
Start by creating your variables. Figma provides a straightforward process to create and organize variable collections. Refer to Figma’s official documentation to learn more about creating and managing variables.
Step 2: Apply Variables
Once you’ve created your variables, it’s time to apply them to various design elements within your project. You can apply variables to text content, object dimensions, layer visibility, and more. This step ensures that your design elements are connected to the corresponding variables.
Step 3: Set Variable Values
After you’ve created and applied variables throughout your design, you can use the “Set variable” action to change or modify their values based on prototype triggers. Follow these steps to set variable values:
- Create a prototype interaction in Figma.
- Navigate to the Interaction details panel and select a trigger from the dropdown menu.
- From the Actions dropdown menu, choose “Set variable.”
- Select the target variable from the dropdown menu.
- In the Write expression field, enter a new value for the variable. Make sure the value type matches the variable type (e.g., number for number variables, true/false for boolean variables).
Once you’ve set up the “Set variable” action, play your prototype to test the interaction and observe how the variable values change dynamically.
Advanced Features for Variable-powered Prototypes
Once you’re comfortable with using variables in prototypes, you can explore some advanced features to enhance their power further. Consider trying the following:
Expressions: Manipulate Variables with Basic Operations
Figma allows you to manipulate variables using basic operations. By incorporating expressions, you can create more advanced prototypes with flexible values. For example, you can perform basic math on number variables, combine multiple string variables, or use boolean expressions.
Multiple Actions and Conditionals
Take advantage of if/else statements to check if a specific condition is met before performing actions. Additionally, you can stack an unlimited number of actions on a single trigger, enabling complex interactions within your prototypes.
Learn More and Get Hands-on Experience
If you’re new to variables in Figma, take some time to explore the various resources available to learn more about their capabilities. Figma provides “Try it out” tutorials within each section, allowing you to gain hands-on experience and deepen your understanding of how variables work.
For those seeking more practice and experimentation, Figma offers an advanced prototyping playground file that you can explore and learn from.
Conclusion
Variables in prototypes unlock a new level of interactivity and dynamism in design. By leveraging the power of variables, designers can create prototypes that adapt and respond to user interactions, resulting in more engaging and immersive user experiences.
Incorporate variables into your design workflow and explore their advanced features like expressions and conditionals to take your prototypes to the next level. Experiment, learn, and enjoy the creative possibilities that variables bring to your designs.
