How to Highlight Text in Canva
I am working on a presentation slide in Canva and some text is highlighted to make key phrases stand out. You can get the same effect in your own design. I use three simple methods that cover full text boxes and specific words.
This page is the same layout without any highlight applied. The first method is the easiest when you want to highlight an entire text box. The other two help you emphasize single words or short phrases inside a paragraph.
Highlight Text in Canva with the background effect
I want to highlight an entire text box. Click the text box to select it.
Open Effects and select Background. Adjust roundness, spread, transparency, and the highlight color.
Use a slightly transparent color so the text stays readable. This method is very simple and quick. The limitation is that it applies to the entire text box, not individual letters or words.
If you want a bigger typographic treatment behind your words, see how to add background text in Canva for more layout ideas.
Highlight Text in Canva with a shape behind words
I want to highlight a specific word inside a paragraph. Add a separate shape behind that word.
Go to Elements and in Shapes insert a square. Change the color, resize it, and place it behind the target word.
Reduce the transparency so the text remains visible. If the shape blocks the text, right click it and send it backward. This keeps the text on top and the color bar behind it.
For a different emphasis that does not fill the whole area, you can add a border around a text box and keep the layout clean.
Highlight Text in Canva with bold and color
This third method is not a traditional highlight, but it draws attention to words inside a paragraph. Select the words you want to emphasize.
Make the text bold. Change the color to create contrast with the rest of the paragraph.
This instantly makes those words stand out without adding shapes or backgrounds. It works well for short phrases like persuade, inspire, and motivate. Use it when you want a quick emphasis that matches your color palette.
Final thoughts on Highlight Text in Canva
Use the background effect for full box highlights. Use a colored shape for precise word highlights. Use bold and color when you want quick emphasis without extra elements.
Keep transparency balanced so the text stays readable. Arrange layers so shapes sit behind the text. When you share designs that include images, remember to add alt text to pictures in Canva to support accessibility.
