Swapping instances in Figma - Cheat Sheet & Quick Revision

Recall & Review

beginner

What does 'Swapping instances' mean in Figma?

Swapping instances means replacing one component instance with another while keeping the same position and overrides.

beginner

How do you swap an instance in Figma?

Select the instance, then use the right sidebar's 'Instance' section to choose a different component from the dropdown.

intermediate

Why is swapping instances useful in design workflows?

It lets you quickly change designs without rebuilding layouts or losing custom changes like text or colors.

intermediate

What happens to overrides when you swap instances in Figma?

Overrides like text changes or colors are preserved if the new component has matching properties.

advanced

Can you swap instances between components from different libraries in Figma?

Yes, as long as the components are published and accessible, you can swap instances across libraries.

What is the first step to swap an instance in Figma?

A Delete the current instance

B Select the instance you want to swap

C Create a new component

D Open the layers panel

You must first select the instance before you can swap it with another component.

When swapping instances, what happens to custom text overrides?

A They are preserved if the new component supports the same text fields

B They are always lost

C They become default text

D They turn into images

Overrides like custom text stay if the new component has matching text fields.

Can you swap an instance with a component from a different Figma library?

A No, only components in the same file

B Only if you copy the component first

C Yes, if the library is published and accessible

D Only with plugins

Figma allows swapping with components from any published and accessible library.

What is preserved when swapping instances in Figma?

A Position and overrides

B Only position

C Only overrides

D Nothing is preserved

Swapping keeps the instance's position and any overrides applied.

Why might you want to swap instances instead of deleting and adding new ones?

A To export faster

B To reduce file size

C To change colors automatically

D To keep layout and overrides intact

Swapping saves time by keeping layout and custom changes without rebuilding.

Explain how swapping instances works in Figma and why it is helpful.

Think about changing a design piece without losing your edits.

Describe what happens to overrides when you swap instances between components.

Consider what stays the same and what might change.