Pages are content pages like any web page; they can include a combination of text, images, and files (documents, videos, etc.).

Files includes any documents, videos, images, or other files you have uploaded to your course.

Why use Pages?

Pages allow you to create context around an item. This helps students learn more effectively. Instead of merely watching a YouTube video, students can read why you think this video is important or you can ask them to consider 3 questions after watching the video.
Adding files (PDF, Word, PowerPoint, etc.) to your course pages allows students to preview the files without downloading them.
Creating pages that contain a number of related files, images, and links in one place can help keep modules from becoming too long.

Upload and Manage Course Files

The Files area allows the instructor to create a repository for the files related to the course. It is not recommended to give students access to the Files area because it's not in any meaningful order.

Learn how to upload and manage your files:

Files Overview from Instructure Canvas Video Guides.

See also:

Files: Add Course Content (Video)

How do I use Files?

How do I upload a file to a course?

How do I bulk upload files?

Creating Pages

How do I create a new page in my course?

The Rich Content Editor is the tool in which you'll add videos, text, images, etc. to your course. An overview of the editor can be found here: https://canvas.northwestern.edu/courses/1580/pages/canvas-rich-content-editor

Adding Files, Links, Video, and Other Content to Pages

How do I create a File link in a Page?

How do I embed a video in a page in my course?

How do I create a file link in a page in my course?

How do I insert links to course content on my page?

Course Reserves and Library Resources

Course Reserves is the area in Canvas where you can request copyrighted materials from the Library. Learn more: Placing Items on eReserve.

Copyright Resources:

Copyright and Reserve
Using Video and Audio in Teaching (University of Minnesota online resource)

Recommendations for Page Design

Tips for helping out mobile users:

Avoid very large images, as they are difficult to view on a phone.
Use short, concise page titles. Long titles tend to run off the page when viewed on a phone.

Accessibility tips: General Accessibility Design Guidelines