To select similar components in Figma, specifically instances of the same master component, you can use the search menu function.
Figma provides a quick way to select all instances of a specific component you have selected on your canvas. This is particularly useful when you need to make consistent changes across multiple instances simultaneously.
According to the provided reference, one effective method is accessing a built-in function via the ⌘ + / (Mac) or Ctrl + / (Windows) search menu.
Using the Search Menu to Select Instances
This method allows you to pinpoint a specific function within Figma without navigating through nested menus.
- Select an Instance: Click on one instance of the component you want to select across your file or page.
- Open the Search Menu: Press ⌘ + / (Mac) or Ctrl + / (Windows) on your keyboard.
- Search for the Function: In the search bar that appears, begin typing "Instance".
- Select the Command: From the results that filter, click on the command titled "Select all with same instance".
Figma will then automatically select all other instances of the component you initially clicked on.
As mentioned in the reference, selecting all instances with the same instance property enables you to "modify the properties of all components pretty easily." This streamlines workflows for updates like changing overrides (text, color, etc.) or swapping out the master component itself.
Why Use "Select all with same instance"?
Selecting components by their instance is fundamental for maintaining consistency and efficiency in design systems.
- Batch Edits: Quickly change properties (like color, stroke, text) across multiple identical components at once.
- Component Swapping: Effortlessly swap one type of component instance for another across your design.
- Consistency: Ensure all uses of a specific component adhere to design standards.
While Figma offers other methods for selecting layers based on properties (like fill, stroke, effect), the "Select all with same instance" command is the most direct way to find and select components specifically linked to the same master component.
