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Wondering about the error message: “Formatting error. Please ensure that the text entry has not been pasted from a different source. Type text to submit response.”
If you see this message, and are in a high pressure exam situation not to worry. Here is the TL;DR:
Problem:
If you have copied and pasted content from the web or a word processor (.docx/ google doc), invisible formatting is added when you paste the content into new quizzes. Entering your response directly will prevent this message in the future.
Fix:
Highlight your entry then choose the “Clear Formatting” button.
Clear formatting then try to resubmit
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