Table formatting

[oneilllj]

I would like to make a table that has multiple rows, however, each row will have a different number of cells/columns.

I understand I can do this in HTML editor, however, for teachers who want to quickly create a table, what would be the best way? (I have also tried pasting from Microsoft Word, however, the table still needs to be formatting, often ending in HTML Editor to clean it up).

Thanks in advance

[Jeff_F]

Hello @oneilllj - For this I would start by creating the table using the max number of columns and rows I would want. And then I would select adjacent cells I wish to merge and use the command Cell > Merge cells. Wash, rinse, repeat.  ;o)

Merge cells

The following guide has a an incredible amount of detail about tables. See the 'View Cell Format Options' for details on commands including merge cells.

https://community.canvaslms.com/t5/Canvas-Basics-Guide/How-do-I-insert-a-table-using-the-Rich-Conten... 

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ps. I also suggest exploring the upcoming block editor feature. This should give the teachers super powers!  
https://community.canvaslms.com/t5/The-Product-Blog/Update-on-the-Block-Editor/ba-p/618787 

[oneilllj]

Thanks for the reply @Jeff_F. My main issue is that I was trying to split the cell/s and the function was not available, as per my image. The current work around for us has been to create many separate mini tables each with one row and then the relevant number of columns. This has been the easiest way to ensure everything is evenly spread across the page.

Is there any update about when the block editor will be released?

[Chris_Hofer · Accepted solution]

@oneilllj ...

What is the purpose of the table?  Is it to hold data?  Or is it for design purposes?  If it's to hold data, that's fine.  But, if it is for designing the layout of your content page, then that's not really what tables are meant for ... though I can understand why some people want to do it.  Using tables for page layout can cause accessibility issues.  I just wanted to throw that idea out there if that might apply for your situation.

As for the Block Editor...the only update I've recently seen is here:

Update on the Block Editor - Instructure Community - 618787

You can post your questions on that blog entry for Allison.

Hope this helps a bit.

[Jeff_F]

Chris is on the money with the concern about accessibility. Our designers typically avoid use of tables for that reason.