Display formulas for images and links
Key Takeaway
In a formula field, use the IMAGE function to display a picture and the HYPERLINK function to display a clickable link, because plain HTML doesn't render.
Formula fields can show more than numbers and text. The IMAGE function displays a picture, and the HYPERLINK function displays a clickable link. App builders use them to turn record data into visual cues or into one-click links to other pages and tools, all without code.
Why plain HTML doesn't work
Plain HTML typed into a formula field doesn't render, because the UI escapes HTML tags. If you want an HTML element such as an image or a link, use a function like IMAGE or HYPERLINK instead.