Axure RP is a tool for creating prototypes that feel like real applications. While wireframes give you a blueprint, Axure lets you build an interactive model you can click through. It helps you test ideas, find usability problems, and show stakeholders exactly how a product will work before writing any code.

When you first open Axure, the interface can seem busy. But it’s organized into a few key areas that you’ll use constantly. Think of it as your digital workshop.

Let’s break down these main sections:

• The Canvas: This is your main stage, where you'll design your screens. You drag elements here and arrange them to build your interface.

• Panes: These are the panels surrounding the canvas that help you manage your project. The most important ones for now are on the left: the Pages pane to add and organize screens, the Outline pane to see a list of all elements on your current page, and the Libraries pane, which holds all your building blocks, called widgets.

• Toolbar: Located at the top, this gives you quick access to essential tools like select, zoom, and basic shape tools.

Starting a new project is straightforward. When you launch Axure RP, you'll often be greeted with a welcome screen. From there, you can select 'New File'. If you're already in the app, just go to File > New.

Axure will create a new .rp file for you with a single page, usually named 'Page 1'. This is your blank slate.

Now, let’s add something to the canvas. The building blocks of any Axure prototype are called widgets. You'll find them in the Libraries pane on the left.

1. Find the Libraries Pane: It contains default sets of widgets like 'Common' and 'Forms'.
2. Drag and Drop: Click on a Rectangle widget and drag it onto your canvas. Do the same with a Button widget.
3. Add Text: Double-click the rectangle you just added. A cursor will appear, allowing you to type inside it. Let's add a heading like 'Welcome!'.

That’s it. You've just created the most basic elements of a page. You can select any widget on the canvas by clicking it. Once selected, you can move it around or resize it using the handles that appear on its border.

You now know your way around the Axure workspace and can start a project. The next step is to learn how to connect these pages and make your prototype truly interactive.