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Copy a Canvas quiz question, then build variants from your notes

Duplicating a question in Canvas takes seconds. Writing a fresh version for each section or retake takes longer, so generate variants from your own material.

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Duplicating questions in Canvas quizzes

Most instructors who need a retake version of a Canvas quiz start with the canvas quiz duplicate question option, then reword the stem so students cannot match the copy to the original. Duplicating keeps the scoring and layout consistent, which matters when two sections take the same test.

Duplicate first so point values and answer format stay consistent across versions.
Reword the stem rather than changing one word, so the copy is not easy to match.
Replace weak distractors with plausible errors students actually make.
Check that each variant still tests the same objective before publishing.

Example Canvas quiz duplicate question steps

Why duplicate a Canvas question instead of writing a new one from scratch?Duplicating keeps the answer format, points and layout consistent, so you only edit the wording that needs to change.

What should you change first in a duplicated multiple-choice question?Reword the stem and reorder the options, since students who remember the original letter order can otherwise match the copy.

Does editing a duplicated question in Canvas change the original?No, the copy is a separate question, so edits to it leave the original unchanged, but review the quiz before students open it.

Why keep the same point value on a duplicated question?Matching points keeps scoring balanced across versions, and you should change points only if the new item is genuinely harder.

What is a distractor in a multiple-choice question?A distractor is a plausible wrong option, and good ones reflect common student errors rather than obviously false statements.

Generate the full set

Duplicate in Canvas

Copy an existing question to keep its answer options, points and formatting, then edit only what needs to change.

Generate new variants

Upload your PDF, slides or notes and get multiple-choice, true/false or open questions with explanations.

Export for Canvas

Pro includes QTI 2.1 export, so you can move generated questions into your course.

How it works

Open the quiz and duplicate

In Canvas, find the question in the quiz editor and use its menu to duplicate it.

Upload your source material

Add the lecture slides, notes or PDF the question came from so the variants match your content.

Review, edit and export

Check each generated question and explanation, adjust wording, then export when you are ready.

The copy alone is rarely enough for a second sitting. Changing the numbers or a single word is easy to spot, so rewriting the stem, reordering the options and swapping in new wrong answers gives a fairer version while keeping the same learning objective.

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Frequently asked questions

How many variants should a Canvas retake quiz have?

Most instructors create one alternate version per retake and change most of the wording, not only a few details. Keep the number of questions and total points the same across versions so grades stay comparable.

How do I stop students sharing answers from a duplicated question?

Reword the stem, reorder the answer options and vary the wrong answers so the copy does not match the original. Keep the learning objective identical so the test remains fair.

Can I export generated questions to Canvas?

QTI 2.1 export is part of the Pro plan at $14.99 per month. Check the import format Canvas expects for your quiz type before uploading the file.

Is DeckOwl free to try?

Yes. The free plan includes 3 generations per month and studying in the browser, and no credit card is needed to start. Exports require a paid plan.

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