Prototype mode overview in Figma - Step-by-Step Guide

Introduction

Prototype mode in Figma lets you create interactive designs by linking frames and adding actions. It helps you show how your app or website will work without writing code.

When you want to show how users move between screens in a mobile app design

When you need to demonstrate button clicks that open new pages in a website mockup

When you want to test navigation flow before development starts

When you want to share an interactive demo with your team or clients

When you want to simulate animations or transitions between screens

Steps

Step 1: Click

- Prototype tab in the right sidebar

The panel switches to show prototype settings and interaction options

Step 2: Select a frame or object on the canvas

- Main design area

The selected element is highlighted and ready for linking

Step 3: Drag the circular node from the selected element to the target frame

- Canvas near the selected element

A connection arrow appears showing the link between frames

Step 4: Choose an interaction type from the Interaction details panel

- Prototype tab

The interaction is set, for example, On Click or While Hovering

Step 5: Select an animation or transition effect

- Animation dropdown in the Prototype tab

The transition effect is applied to the link

Step 6: Click the Present button (play icon) in the top-right corner

- Figma toolbar

The prototype opens in presentation mode, showing interactive navigation

Before vs After

Before

Frames on canvas are static with no links or interactions

After

Frames are connected with interaction links and transitions, ready for interactive preview

Settings Reference

Interaction Trigger

📍 Prototype tab > Interaction details

Defines what user action starts the interaction

Default: On Click

Animation Type

📍 Prototype tab > Animation dropdown

Controls how the transition between frames looks

Default: Instant

Destination Frame

📍 Prototype tab > Link connection

Specifies which frame to navigate to when interaction occurs

Default: None

Common Mistakes

Not switching to Prototype tab before creating links

You cannot create or edit interactions without the Prototype tab active

Always click the Prototype tab first to access interaction tools

Linking to the wrong frame by dragging to an unintended target

The prototype will navigate incorrectly, confusing users

Carefully check the target frame before releasing the drag to ensure correct linking

Forgetting to click Present to test the prototype

You won't see the interactive behavior without presentation mode

Always use the Present button to preview and test your prototype

Summary

Prototype mode lets you create interactive links between frames without coding

Use it to simulate user flows and navigation in your designs

Remember to set interaction triggers and animations for smooth transitions