---
title: How do I use the Files tool in CourseWorks (Canvas)?
description: The files tool in CourseWorks (Canvas) houses all the files you’ve uploaded to your course, such as readings, lecture notes, and slides. You can create folders here to organize your files.  You can le
---

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# How do I use the Files tool in CourseWorks (Canvas)?

The files tool in CourseWorks (Canvas) houses all the files you’ve uploaded to your course, such as readings, lecture notes, and slides. You can create folders here to organize your files. 

You can learn more about viewing and uploading files to your course at [How Do I use Course Files](https://community.canvaslms.com/t5/Canvas-Basics-Guide/How-do-I-view-course-files/ta-p/617226) and [How do I upload a file in Files](https://community.canvaslms.com/t5/Canvas-Basics-Guide/How-do-I-upload-a-file-in-Files/ta-p/617194) in the Canvas Basics Guide.

 If you have the files tool enabled in your navigation bar, all members of your course will be able to see and access folders and files. As an instructor you can restrict access to individual files or folders by:

- setting the state of the file (published or unpublished)
- restricting file access to only users who have the link
- scheduling availability dates for the file

To learn more about changing your file permissions, go to [How do I restrict files and folders to students in Canvas?](https://community.canvaslms.com/docs/DOC-12771-415241391) In the Canvas Instructor Guide.

You can also download files from your CourseWorks site. To download a file click the three dots on the right side of the file name and select “download.” To learn more about downloading files and folders please see [How Do I Download a File or Folde](https://community.canvaslms.com/t5/Canvas-Basics-Guide/How-do-I-download-a-file-or-folder/ta-p/617195)r from the Canvas Basics Guide.

*Last updated: 08/05/25*

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