Variable Calculations

How variable operations work

Token Tools lets you define mathematical relationships between variables. Instead of manually updating every derived value when a base token changes, you write a formula once in the variable’s description field — and the plugin resolves it into an actual value.

Supported syntax

Write formulas using calc($variable_name [operator] number) in the description field of a Figma variable.

Supported operators: + - * /

Examples:

calc($spacing * 2)
calc($radius + 4)
calc($base_size / 1.25)
calc($line_height - 0.2)

If your variable name contains spaces, replace them with underscores.
e.g. a variable named base size → calc($base_size * 1.5)

Apply calculations

Once your formulas are written in the description fields, open the plugin and press Calculate variables at the bottom of the UI.

Two modes are available under Tokens → Variable calculations:

• Update once — runs all calculations a single time. If you edit a formula, press it again to recalculate.
• Start monitoring — continuously watches for changes in variable descriptions and recalculates automatically. Press Stop monitoring to end the session.

Note: Monitoring runs continuously and may consume additional CPU resources. On slower machines, Update once is the recommended option.

Free plan limitation: The free plan supports a limited number of calculations per day. Upgrade to PRO for unlimited calculations. [PRICE]