> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.cohesive.ai/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# HTML blocks

> Create interactive visuals and styled content that live directly on the Canvas.

An HTML block is a file displayed directly on the Canvas as a visual or interactive piece of content. Ask the agent to make a comparison, chart, diagram, or styled briefing from your sources.

## Create a block

<Steps>
  <Step title="Select source material">
    Select the files, notes, or records the visual should explain.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Describe the result">
    Ask: *"Create an HTML block comparing these three proposals. Show cost, delivery dates, and open questions, with a filter by vendor."*
  </Step>

  <Step title="Review the data and controls">
    Check the visual against its sources. Try each control and ask for changes to the content or layout.
  </Step>
</Steps>

See [Build a useful visual](/product/guides/building-visuals) for examples and a review process.

## Interact, edit, or expand

Click a control to interact with the block. Use **Edit** for supported editable text regions. Editing requires write access; readers can use local interactive controls.

Select the block and press `Enter`, or choose **Expand**, for a larger view. Press `Escape` to leave an interaction or return to the Canvas.

HTML content can also use document presentation. Open the file to read or revise longer content in the document pane.

## What is saved

The block's file content and supported text edits are saved. Interactive controls such as filters, tabs, or calculators operate locally. Their temporary state isn't shared with other readers or guaranteed to survive reloads.

<Note>
  HTML blocks have no network access, cookies, or persistent browser storage. They don't independently read Connectors, send messages, or maintain a shared database.
</Note>

For durable records, ask the agent to keep the source data in files or Canvas objects and update the visual from that data. For recurring refreshes, use an [Automation](/product/automations/overview).

## Share or publish

Share the Canvas or the file for access inside your organization. Publish a [Canvas snapshot](/product/collaboration/public-canvases) or [file snapshot](/product/files/publishing) for public readers.

Check the published version after updating, including its sources and local interactive controls.