Embed an Image in a Canvas Discussion Reply

Canvas allows you to embed images directly into discussion replies using the Rich Content Editor. You can upload an image from your computer, add an image using a web URL, or select an image from your Canvas user files.

If the original image source changes after you embed it, the image in your discussion reply will not update.

Notes

Images must be uploaded to your Canvas user files before they can be embedded from User Images.
Canvas supports multiple image file types.
You can also attach files to a discussion reply.
If you submit your reply before an image finishes uploading, Canvas may display a warning message.

Steps to Embed an Image

Course Navigation, click Discussions.
Click the discussion title.
Click Reply [1] to create a new discussion entry.
- Note: If enabled at your institution, you can access AI-supported translations by clicking Enable Translation [2].
In the Rich Content Editor toolbar, click the Image icon [1].
Select Upload Image [2] to add a new image from your computer or a URL, or select User Images [3] to choose an image from your Canvas user files.

If you do not see the Image icon, click the Options (three dots) icon to view additional tools [4] or Insert from the Rich Content Editor menu.

Red box and number 1 around the image icon. Number 2 next to the upload image link, number 3 next to the user images link, and number 4 above the three vertical dots option.

If you selected Upload Image, choose one of the following:
- Computer: Click the upload area (or drag and drop an image file) to upload from your device.
- URL: Click the URL tab and enter the image link in the File URL field.
- If prompted to set usage rights, select an option from the Usage Right drop-down menu [1] and enter the copyright holder information (if known)[2].
In the Alt Text field [1], enter a brief description of the image for accessibility.
- If the image is decorative, select Decorative Image [2].
Choose how the image will display in your reply:
- Embed Image (default) [3]
- Display Text Link (shows a link instead of the image) [4]
Click Submit to insert the image into the Rich Content Editor.
- To remove the image and select a different image, click the Delete icon.
- You can also add or modify alt text tags and manage the image display options.
Review your response, then click Reply to post your discussion entry.
View your posted discussion reply.