In Short

Text boxes in Canvas use the Rich Content Editor. You will encounter it when you are writing instructions for an assignment, creating a page, or interacting in discussions. Rich Content Editor allows you not only to write plain text, but also type in LaTeX, upload files, create on-the-spot audio or video recordings, and embed images and links.

Step-by-step

Here is an overview of the main features of the Rich Content Editor:

Screenshot of Rich Content Editor with Content Area and Tool Bar Menu

The content area allows you to enter text directly or copy and paste from other applications.
The toolbar allows you to format text or paragraphs.
A toolbar for inserting links, images, media, and documents.
Clear formatting.
Add tables.
Insert equations.
Open external tools such as YouTube, Panopto video, Kaltura, VoiceThread, Google apps, and more.
Toggle between the HTML view and the Rich Content Editor view.

Video Tutorial

Additional Resources

What is the Rich Content Editor?
How do I upload a document in the New Rich Content Editor as an instructor?
How do I create a hyperlink to external urls in the Rich Content Editor?
How do I create a hyperlink to course or group content in the Rich Content Editor?
How do I record media using the Rich Content Editor as an instructor?
How do I use the Math Editor in the New Rich Content Editor as an instructor?
How do I upload and embed an image into the Rich Content Editor as an instructor?
How do I embed documents into the Rich Content Editor as an instructor?

Click Next to read about Syllabus