What to know
- Canvas content creation works similarly across all areas of the site where there is a rich content editor.
- Tip: to revert to a previous version of a page, visit our guide on Pages revision.
Step 1
Navigate to the area of Canvas in which you wish to create content.
Click "+" to make new content or "edit" to change existing content. Both buttons are found near the top right of the screen.
NOTE
"Edit" only appears on individual content, such as a specific assignment page rather than the general "Assignments" menu page.
- Many features in Canvas support a content editor that functions similarly to Microsoft Word or Google Docs.
- All additional files, media, and links can be added by clicking the "Insert" menu item.
- Locate the document icon.
- Select one of the options:
- Upload Document: from computer
- Course Documents: from Course Files Area
- User Documents: from Canvas account
- Select the desired file from the pop up menu.
- The link to the file will show up in the content editor where you put your cursor.
- Locate the image icon.
- Select one of the options:
- Upload Image: from computer
- Course Images: from Course Files Area
- User Images: from Canvas account
- A pop-up will display to the right of your screen.
- Remember to click the Submit button after you have made your selection.
- Make sure you keep copyright in mind.
- The image will show up wherever your cursor is. This works just like adding images to your home page.
- Locate the links icon.
- Select one of the options:
- External Links: on the web
- Course Links: content you've already created in Canvas
- A pop-up will display to the right of your screen. There will be a list of drop-down menus for items like quizzes and assignments. Everything you have already built in Canvas will be on one of these lists.
- Click the item you want to link to and the link will appear where you had your cursor.
- Locate the media icon.
- Select one of the options:
- Upload / Record media: computer or record from webcam
- Course media: Canvas Files Area
- User Media: Canvas account
- A pop-up will display to the right of your screen.
- Remember to click the Submit button after you have made your upload or selected media.
- After the media has loaded to the page you can view more video options like changing the display by clicking on the thumbnail.
Note
If you select "Upload / Record Media", the video will embed and play on the page. The media file size can be up to 500MB and will not count against the course storage limit.
Step 7
Click "Save" when you're done
- Remember to "Publish" your content in order for it to be accessible to students.
Instructor support
Email: dce_instructionaltechnology@fas.harvard.edu
Web: teach.dce.harvard.edu/itg
Emergencies: call the help desk at (617) 998-8571
Student support
Support for students is provided by Academic Technology
Email: AcademicTechnology@dce.Harvard.edu
Phone: (617) 998-8571
Resources: Canvas Student Support Guides &Tips