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File and Folder Naming Conventions

Uploading content into WebCT involves transferring copies of your content from your personal computer into the Manage Files area in your WebCT course.

When uploading content into WebCT you have to be careful that your documents follow the file naming convention required by the WebCT software. There are some filename characters that WebCT will not accept when uploading files into the Manage Files area.

In addition, file and folder names within WebCT are case sensitive. For example, Syllabus.htm is a different file than syllabus.htm. This document includes a list a legal characters, illegal characters, and some recommendations when naming files.

Legal Characters

The following characters are acceptable (i.e. legal) to use within filenames:

-- (dash)
__ (underscore, underline)

For example, a file named bio_syllabus_6-02.htm will be uploaded into WebCT.

Illegal Characters

The following characters are not acceptable (i.e. illegal) to use within filenames:

`	~	!	@	#	$	%	^	&	*
(	)	+	{	}	{	}	\|	\	:
;	"	'	<	>	,	?	/	(space)

For example, the following files will not be uploaded into WebCT:

lec&lab~sched.html
syllabus fall 02.html

Recommendations

Follow this list of recommendations to avoid problems when naming files.

Keep your file and folder names in lowercase only.
Restrict file and folder names to 12 characters (including the extension), since longer names will result in an awkward looking listing within Manage Files.
Use good folder organization tactics which can help reduce the need for longer file names. The location of the file can help explain the purpose of the file.
Be consistent with file naming schemes.