Web Design » Figma » What Are Symbols Called in Figma?

What Are Symbols Called in Figma?

Last updated on September 28, 2022 @ 10:00 pm

There are three types of symbols in Figma: component, instance, and nested. Each type of symbol has its own set of rules and guidelines.

Component

A component is a symbol that can be reused multiple times in a design. Components can be customized to fit the needs of each individual project.

To create a component, select the element or group of elements that you want to turn into a symbol. Then, click the “Create Component” button in the toolbar. Once you’ve created a component, it will appear in the “Components” panel.

Instance

An instance is a specific instance of a component. Every time you use a component in your design, it creates an instance of that component.

Instances can be customized without affecting other instances of the same component. To edit an instance, double-click on it or select it and click the “Edit Instance” button in the toolbar. Once you’ve made your changes, they will only apply to that instance.

Nested

A nested symbol is a symbol that is used within another symbol. Nested symbols can be used to create complex designs with many layers of structure.

To create a nested symbol, select the element or group of elements that you want to turn into a symbol. Then, click the “Create Nested Symbol” button in the toolbar.

Once you’ve created a nested symbol, it will appear in the “Nested Symbols” panel. You can then drag it into another symbol to use it as part of that symbol.

PRO TIP: Figma is a powerful design tool, but it can be tricky to use if you’re not familiar with the software. One thing to watch out for is the symbol feature. Symbols in Figma are called “instances” and they can be a little confusing to work with if you’re not used to them. Here are a few things to keep in mind when working with instances in Figma:

– Make sure you understand what an instance is before you start using them. Otherwise, you may end up with a lot of unwanted duplicates of your design.

– Pay attention to the settings for each instance. You can change the appearance of an instance, but be careful not to accidentally change the master symbol.

– If you need to make changes to a symbol, it’s often easier to just edit the master symbol directly. That way, all instances will update automatically.

Madison Geldart

Madison Geldart

Cloud infrastructure engineer and tech mess solver.