Basic Tools and Features in Figma

1. The Selection Tool

The Selection Tool is the most fundamental tool in Figma, allowing you to interact with and manipulate objects on your canvas. To use it, simply click on any element to select it. Once selected, you can move the element, resize it, or change its properties.

For example, imagine you are arranging furniture in a room. The Selection Tool is like your hand, enabling you to pick up, move, and adjust each piece of furniture. This tool is essential for any design task, from repositioning text boxes to resizing images.

2. The Pen Tool

The Pen Tool is used to create custom vector paths, which are essential for designing complex shapes and illustrations. To use the Pen Tool, click on the canvas to create anchor points. Each click creates a point, and the lines between these points form the path of your shape.

Think of the Pen Tool as a digital pencil that allows you to draw freeform shapes. For instance, if you were designing a logo, the Pen Tool would enable you to create intricate curves and lines that define the logo's unique shape. This tool is particularly useful for creating logos, icons, and other detailed graphics.

By mastering these two basic tools, you will have a solid foundation for creating and editing designs in Figma. The Selection Tool ensures you can manage and manipulate your elements effectively, while the Pen Tool empowers you to craft precise and custom shapes.