Using the HTML Editor

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When creating text in Desire2Learn you are working in the Design view of the integrated HTML Editor. This editor offers both basic and advanced formatting options. In addition to formatting options the Advanced tab in the HTML Editor allows you to insert pictures, Quicklinks, and objects such as audio files. (Not all advanced features may be available)

This tutorial covers the following topics:

  • The HTML Editor Environment
  • Using the HTML Editor
  • Copying and Pasting Content into the HTML Editor

The HTML Editor Environment

Whenever you create text (e.g., a Discussion, a News item) you will be using the HTML Editor. The HTML Editor window is shown here. 

HTML Editor

Using the HTML Editor

  1. In the text area type the desired text
    HINT: To have the HTML Editor appear full screen click TOGGLE FULLSCREEN MODE 

    HTML Editor
  2. To apply basic formatting to your text use the toolbar buttons

    HTML Editor
  3. To apply advanced formatting to your text:
    1. Select the Advanced tab to make more formatting options appear.

      HTML Editor 
    2. Use the tools on the Advanced toolbar as needed
      HINT: You can make changes directly to the code by clicking EDIT HTML SOURCE
  4. To check the spelling of your text click TOGGLE SPELLCHECKER 
  5. To preview the new changes click PREVIEW
  6. To make any additional changes to your message repeat steps 1-4
  7. If you are using full screen mode, to exit it, click TOGGLE FULLSCREEN MODE
  8. When finished click SAVE
    NOTE: The SAVE button is not visible in full screen mode.

Copying and Pasting Content into the HTML Editor

RECOMMENDED: Remove formatting from text you are copying including bullets, numbers, tabs, page numbers, etc. Pasting formatted text may add code which can cause unintended results. This may then be difficult to correct using the editing tools provided.

  1. Copy the text you want to paste into the HTML Editor
  2. In the HTML Editor select the Advanced tab
  3. Paste your text using one of the following:
    • To paste text that contains no formatting click PASTE PASTE
    • To paste text that contains some formatting click PASTE AS PLAIN TEXT PASTE AS PLAIN TEXT 
      This will remove the formatting and paste only the text.
    • To paste text that has been copied from Microsoft Word click PASTE FROM WORD PASTE FROM WORD
  4. Using the Basic and Advanced tabs, apply the desired formatting
  5. Click SAVE