Cannot view Google Drive .pdf files in Canvas Modules

[caroleedearbo]

I have many External URL files in my Modules that are worksheets with corrections, etc., that were uploaded into my Drive, then linked in Modules.  My students and I cannot view these files.  We can view Docs that are linked in the same way from my Drive, plus Sheets, Slides, etc.  Just not .pdf files that are linked by a URL on my Drive.

Please help me figure this out.

Carolee

[TrishaMeyer1]

Hi @caroleedearbo ,

Have you checked the Share settings for the PDF files in your Drive? Even though they are not native Google files, they still have Share settings that can be accessed from the 3-dot "snowman" menu or from the Share button if you are in preview mode. Make sure they are set to be viewed by anyone with the link.

Also make sure the PDF files have been added to your Drive folder and are not in your Shared with me folder.

If you still are unable to get the files to be visible when shared from your Drive, you can try uploading them to your Canvas Files and then selecting "File" instead of "External URL" when you add the item to the Module.

[caroleedearbo]

I have shared with "Anyone who has the link" plus they are not in my Shared files.  I was trying to avoid having to use the Canvas files part of the system.  It's so much easier to have a live link that I can update and not have to reload, but I'll do this if there is no other way.  Thank you for the reply.