How to Write Developer Handoff Notes in Figma
A good handoff note explains what the design should do, not only what it looks like. This is especially important when developers, QA, product owners, or AI coding agents will build from the file.
1. Start with the screen purpose
Each screen should explain what the user is trying to do and what success looks like.
2. Document states
Include default, hover, active, disabled, loading, empty, error, success, and permission states where relevant.
3. Add responsive rules
Explain what stacks, hides, wraps, stays sticky, or changes priority across desktop, tablet, and mobile.
4. Explain interactions
Write down what happens after clicks, submissions, filters, errors, modals, drawers, dropdowns, and navigation actions.
5. Add acceptance criteria
Short acceptance criteria help developers and QA know when the implementation matches the design intent.