Discussion Board – How to Create and Reply to a Thread

Create a Thread

  • Click on the title of the discussion forum, or board.

  • Click on Create Thread.

  • The Message area provides a place to write your thread or post.

Type a Subject. It’s always a good idea to give your post an easily identifiable and appropriate title. For example, in an introduction discussion board, a good subject title is your name.

Add a photo in a discussion post

  • Click on the icon that looks like a small tree in the bottom row of text editor box.
  • If you can’t see icon, click the 2 downward pointing arrows on the right-hand side of the Text Editor box.
  • This is the “Insert/edit image” button.
  • Once you click on the Insert/edit image button, you will see a small pop-up window. Under the Image URL space, click on the Browse My Computer button.

  • Locate the file on your computer and click Open.

  • If your file is too big, click on the Appearance tab.

  • From this screen, you can adjust the size (dimensions) of your photo.
  • Once you have the size of your photo set, click on Insert.

Please Note: If you are on a Mac, use either Firefox or Chrome for this process. Safari is not compatible.

  • Your picture will be added to your discussion post.

Add a file in a discussion post

  • Click on the small icon that looks like a paperclip. This is the Insert File button. It is to the left of the Insert/edit image button.
  • Once you click the Upload File button, a prompt will allow you to browse for files on your computer.
  • Click the Browse My Computer button.


  • Locate the file you wish to attach. Once you have the desired file selected, click Open.
  • Leave the information Blackboard fills in under the Content Link Options.
  • Click Submit to attach your file.
  • Your file will be added to your discussion post.
  • When you’ve finished typing your post and attaching any necessary items,
  • Click Submit.

To read and reply to other’s thread, or post

  • Click the thread title you want to read.
  • The original post will be at the top of the page.
  • Click the Reply button.
  • Atext editor box, similar to the create thread text editor box,will appear for you to type your response and, if necessary, attach a picture or file.
  • When you’ve finished typing your response, click Submit.
  • A green success bar will appear above your post.
  • To return to the main discussion board, click the title of the discussion forum in the bread-crumb list at the top of the screen.