math

Using the Equation Editor …

… to make math problems look like math problems!

Math on the keyboard:

x = [-b +/- sqrt(b^2 – 4ac)]/(2a)

Huh?

Math with the equation editor!

2 4

2

b b ac x

a

−  − =

That’s better!

Let’s say that you want to show an algebraic fraction like

Trying to do this with just the keyboard looks “weird” …

x / (x + 3)

… and it invites mistakes (like not using the parentheses).

x / x + 3 means 𝑥

𝑥 + 3 which is something completely different!

3

x

x +

The next time you go to post a discussion click the three extra dots at the end.

You will see more options show up.

Right below the Bold button you will see the Greek letter sigma.

This is the button to open the equation editor.

Select Graphical Equation

The Equation Editor has lots of tools, so let’s look at a few of the basics.

Good news: most things look like what they do.

For example, if you need a fraction, you will click the button that looks like an empty fraction.

You will see a fraction appear - you just need to fill it in.

Use the arrows to navigate to the bottom of the fraction.

Be sure to use the right arrow to navigate out of the fraction before continuing with your equation.

You will notice that the cursor is tall in this picture. That is how you know that you are out of the fraction.

Another commonly used symbol is the exponent.

This time let’s try to create the expression:

To do this you will start by creating a fraction.

2

6

5

2

x

y

−

+

Once you are in the fraction, you type the x and then click the exponent

button and then the 2.

Use the right arrow button to get out of the exponent before typing the – 5.

Then, use the down arrow to move to the denominator. In this picture you can see the cursor. Note that the cursor will show you if

you are still in the exponent or not, so watch carefully!

Once you have the top of the fraction done …

… just rinse and repeat for the bottom!

Once done click insert.

We did it!

If you want to add words to your equations, just type them in,

select them, and then click on the text font.

Experiment with it until

you can get the desired results.

The math may still be a challenge …

… but now writing the answers shouldn’t be!