Math in Canvas Pages

Canvas math equation editor limitations

Use Canvas’ Rich Content Math Editor to create accessible STEM content.

Equation Editor/MathML in Canvas

The Canvas Math Editor does allow you to insert basic equations. The editor allows LaTeX input, which is converted to MathML for improved screen reader compatibility, but results may vary based on the equation complexity and the assistive technology used.

The How do I use the Canvas Math Equation Editor has a step-by-step explanation with screenshots. This is best for content creators who do not use or know LaTeX.

If you are accustomed to working with LaTeX, the Directly Edit LaTeX lets you copy and paste LaTeX into the editor.

  1. Open your source file that contains LaTeX.
  2. Copy the LaTeX for an equation or expression.
  3. In Canvas, choose the Insert Math Equation button on the Rich Content Editor.
    1. Review Rich Content Editor (Links to an external site.) if you need more explanation as to what that is.
  4. Choose Directly Edit LaTex.
  5. Paste the LaTeX into Canvas Equation Editor.
  6. Choose Done to insert onto the Canvas page.

Check out these advanced guides!

We recommend working with students to ensure math and other content is formatted to each student's individual accommodations.

It is possible that a student may need additional accommodations despite using the default Canvas math equation editor and even creating an accessible MS Word document. However, for problem sets, the initial creation of an accessible MS Word document may be enough.

Step 1: Determine when to use the Rich Content Editor

  • Use Canvas math equation editor for instructional content
    • Instructors should use Canvas' math editor for instructional lectures and tutorials.
    • Header usage and organizing the content into shorter portions help students navigate different aspects of the equation. It is extremely helpful to provide textual descriptions explaining the content and context of equations before and after a math problem.
    • Providing detailed explanations before and after a math problem helps reinforce and summarize important concepts.

Use an accessible MS Word doc for problem sets

Sample problems in MS WORD

  • For large problem sets that require students to interact with equations, create an accessible MS Word document as an alternate method to view equations.
  • For an example of how to set up a Canvas assignment that provides a downloadable accessible Word Doc problem set, please see Sample Math Assignment in Canvas or select Next.

Step 2: Use Canvas' math equation editor

Learn how to insert a math equation into a Canvas page, assignment, or quiz.

  1. Select Insert Math Equation
    .Canvas toolbar with "Insert Math Equation" button highlighted.
  2. Enter the equation using the editor or LaTex.
    Canvas Equation Editor interface showing mathematical symbols and the quadratic formula.
  3. To use LaTex instead, toggle Directly Edit LaTeX.
    Canvas Equation Editor interface with direct LaTeX editing option highlighted.
  4. Select Done to insert equation.

Updated 4.22.2025