Live vs. Later: What's the better way to learn Figma?

In this age of streaming, on-demand, curbside pickup, and instant everything, it only makes sense that taking a Figma course by watching videos when it’s convenient for you has to be the better way to go, right? Can’t sleep? Get out of bed and learn something. Get a last-minute invite to a BBQ? Skip class and do your learning later. Distracted by the cat walking on your keyboard? Rewind and the instructor will repeat herself word for word.

It just makes so much sense. Except, of course, until it doesn’t.

So, before you sign up for a video-based course, known in the instruction world as “asynchronous learning,” consider this highly biased advice from a school that’s been teaching courses live for the past pre-YouTube 52 years.

Strike One: There is no classroom buzz with video-based Figma learning.

With real-time classes — whether in person or via Zoom — there is an unmistakable energy that comes from getting a bunch of people together who share the same learning goals. In the live world, discussions flow freely, questions get bounced around, and the class turns into a melting pot where people can give tips to each other. That’s not just hard to replicate when you’re learning solo while watching a video. It’s impossible.

Strike Two: Videos can’t answer your questions right now.

Grasping the concept of, say, how to use the auto-layout feature in Figma to wrap multiple elements can be a stumper if the video you’re watching doesn’t explain what to do in a way that sticks with you. While you can watch and re-watch a video, you can’t say “Could you go through that again a little differently?” or “What do you do if the Figma plug-in didn’t install properly?” In a live class with an experienced instructor, the chances of your brain being left in the dust are next to nil.

Strike Three: Video-based Figma classes are too easy to blow off.

Successful learning involves equal parts of motivation and accountability. With all the demands on your time, and the allure of a multitude of distractions, making yourself sit down to watch learning videos is harder than it sounds.

This is where the seeming convenience of asynchronous learning bumps up against human behavior. Indeed, LinkedIn reports that the completion rate for online classes hovers at around 10% . It’s pretty tough for a class to teach you something if you don’t go.

With a live class, on the other hand, you become part of a tribe of knowledge-seekers. The camaraderie and support from peers create an atmosphere and accountability that drives you to show up, participate, and go the extra mile. So, for that matter, does the simple act of having the instructor take attendance.

There is absolutely a time and place for learning from asynchronous videos. Can you imagine trying to replace a bathroom faucet, set the clock on your Prius, or use a pastry bag for cake decorating without them? They’re indispensable.

But, if you’re trying to get smart about a piece of software as involved as Figma — overflowing with nuance and complexity — video learning falls short. Our advice instead is to sign up for live classes. Then, after your class is over, reward yourself by watching a more entertaining asynchronous video. Baby Reindeer, perhaps?

Larry Asher is the director of the School of Visual Concepts , a professional development training center that’s been helping designers and marketers advance in their careers for more than 50 years. SVC offers a year-long certificate program in UX Design and Content Design. All classes are taught live via Zoom. SVC has also led professional development team training sessions for Amazon, Nestle, Starbucks, Brooks Running, Zillow, Microsoft, the University of Washington, T-Mobile, and many others.