How do you add an interaction in Figma?

Adding an interaction in Figma, typically done within the Prototype tab, allows you to create dynamic connections between frames and objects to simulate user flows. You can add interactions using two primary methods.

Interactions are essential for bringing your designs to life, demonstrating navigation, and showcasing user experiences within your Figma prototype.

Methods for Adding an Interaction

There are two main ways to initiate the process of adding an interaction in Figma, based on what object you've selected and your preferred workflow.

Method 1: Using the Plus Icon on Hover

This method is quick for creating simple connections between layers and destination frames.

1. First, switch to the Prototype tab in the right-hand sidebar.
2. Select the object (like a button, layer, or frame) you want to initiate the interaction.
3. Hover over the selected object on the canvas.
4. You will see a small plus icon appear near the object's bounding box or connection point.
5. Click and drag this plus icon away from the object. As you drag, a blue connection line will appear.
6. Drag the other end of the blue connection line to the destination frame you want the interaction to navigate to or affect.
7. Once connected, the Interaction details panel will appear, allowing you to configure the trigger (e.g., On click, On hover), the action (e.g., Navigate to, Open overlay), and animation details (e.g., Instant, Smart Animate).

This drag-and-drop method visually connects the source and destination, making it intuitive for basic navigation flows.

Method 2: Using the Prototype Panel

This method offers a more structured approach and is often preferred when dealing with complex interactions or when the drag-and-drop method is less convenient.

1. Ensure you are in the Prototype tab in the right-hand sidebar.
2. Select the object you want to add an interaction from.
3. In the right-hand Prototype panel, locate the Interactions section.
4. Click the plus icon (+) within the Interactions section.
5. A new interaction entry will be added, and the Interaction details panel will automatically open.
6. Use the Interaction details panel to:
   • Set the trigger (what action initiates the interaction, e.g., On click, While hovering).
   • Set the action (what happens when the trigger occurs, e.g., Navigate to, Swap with, Scroll to).
   • Configure the animation details (how the action is presented visually, e.g., Instant, Dissolve, Smart Animate, Move in/out).

This panel-based approach gives you direct access to all interaction settings immediately after adding a new interaction event.

Understanding Interaction Details

Regardless of which method you use to add the interaction line or event, you will configure its behavior using the Interaction details panel. This panel allows you to specify:

• Trigger: The user action that starts the interaction (e.g., Tap, Drag, While hovering, On key/gamepad).
• Action: What the prototype does in response to the trigger (e.g., Navigate to, Open overlay, Swap with, Back, Close overlay, Scroll to, Open link).
• Animation: How the change is visually presented (e.g., Instant, Dissolve, Smart Animate, Move in, Push). You can often customize direction and timing here.

Both methods lead you to this crucial panel where you define the specific behavior of the interaction.

By utilizing these methods within the Figma Prototype tab, you can effectively build interactive prototypes that simulate real user experiences.