How to insert any file into Dropbox Paper

Q: What happens if I drag in a file that’s already in my Dropbox?

If you drag in a file that matches one already in your Dropbox account, it will link to the existing file to preserve space in your account. If you drag in a file that partially matches one already in your Dropbox, you’ll see the message: Item may already exist in Dropbox. You can then choose to:<ul><li>Link to the existing file in your Dropbox account</li><li>Or, use the new file you dragged in</li></ul>

Q: Can I drag multiple files into a Dropbox Paper doc at once?

Yes, you can drag multiple files into a Paper doc at the same time as long as they’re within your Dropbox space limit.

Q: Can I drag a folder into a Dropbox Paper doc?

No, currently you can only drag files into a Paper doc. However, you can insert a link to a folder.

Q: What will my files look like once they’re dropped in?

If you drag in a file type that’s supported by Paper, you’ll see a snapshot, or preview, of the file. If your file type isn’t supported by Paper, you’ll see a UFO icon and the name of your file. You’ll still be able to click and access your file—you just won’t see a preview of it. <a href="/content/dropbox/www/en-us/help/view-edit/file-previews.html">Learn more about which file types will preview</a> and how to customize those previews.

Updated Dec 19, 2024

The information in this article applies to all Dropbox users.

To insert any type of file—including an image, video, or document—into the body of a Paper doc, you can simply drag and drop it in, as long as it's under 50 MB.

To drag a file into a Dropbox Paper doc:

Open the desired Paper doc.
Drag any file into that doc. A blue line will appear to help you place it.

Your file will automatically upload to a folder in your Dropbox called Paper Uploads. Dropbox will then create a link to that file and paste it into your Paper doc.

Note: Images won't be uploaded to your Dropbox and won't count towards your storage quota.

You can also manually insert a file: