Figma - Design documentation shortcuts in Figma
The video provides a detailed guide on using Figma's measurement and annotation tools to document design work. It begins by explaining how to measure distances between objects or between an object and its parent container by selecting the object and holding the option or alt key. The measurement tool, accessed via Shift M, allows users to draw distances on the canvas, which update dynamically as objects are moved. Custom measurements can also be added by double-clicking and entering values. Annotations, accessed with the Y key, enable users to leave notes and identify properties, supporting markdown formatting. These annotations can document colors, typography, and other design elements, and can be filtered by category for easier navigation. The video emphasizes the practical application of these tools in enhancing collaboration and clarity in design documentation.
Key Points:
- Use the option/alt key to measure distances between objects in Figma.
- Shift M activates the measurement tool for drawing distances on the canvas.
- Annotations can be added with the Y key and support markdown formatting.
- Annotations can document colors, typography, and other properties, and can be filtered by category.
- Annotations and measurements can be hidden or deleted for cleaner workspace.
Details:
1. 🎨 Introduction to Figma Shortcuts
- Figma shortcuts can significantly enhance design efficiency by allowing quick access to measurement and annotation tools.
- Utilizing these shortcuts streamlines the documentation process, reducing the time spent on manual tasks.
- Designers can improve workflow and maintain consistency by adopting these shortcuts as part of their regular design routine.
- A practical example includes using the 'Alt' key for on-the-fly measurements, allowing designers to quickly gauge distances between elements.
2. 📏 Using the Measurement Tool
- To measure the distance between two objects or an object and its parent container, first select the object, then hold the option key (or alt key on Windows).
- Hovering over the parent container reveals its position relative to the object.
- Selecting another object displays the distance between them.
- To add measurements to the canvas, choose the measurement tool with the shortcut 'Shift + M'.
- With the measurement tool, draw distances between edges and objects to visualize spacing.
- Press 'Escape' or 'V' to return to normal move mode, allowing object adjustments while viewing distances.
- Common issues: Ensure objects are properly selected to avoid incorrect measurements.
- Advanced tip: Use grid snapping for more precise alignment when measuring.
- Troubleshooting: If measurements seem off, check for overlapping objects or hidden layers that may affect accuracy.
3. 🔍 Managing Annotations
- Custom measurements can be added by double-clicking and entering a value, allowing precise specification of dimensions, such as setting a measurement to 100%.
- Annotations and measurements can be hidden or shown by pressing shift Y, facilitating a cleaner workspace when needed.
- Individual annotations can be deleted in measurement mode by selecting them and pressing delete, allowing for easy customization.
- To remove all annotations from a selected item, switch to the move tool, press V, select the object, right-click, and choose 'Remove Annotations', streamlining the process of clearing annotations from objects.
4. 📝 Adding Annotations and Properties
4.1. Annotations
4.2. Properties
5. 🎨 Working with Colors and Typography
5.1. 🎨 Working with Color Features
5.2. 🎨 Working with Typography Features
6. 👍 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
- There you have it. Let me know what you think. And as always, happy designing.