When working on assignments in the system, you have a choice of two modes for entering answers to math questions: Text Mode and Symbol Mode.
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The system default mode is Text Mode, which operates using syntax similar to a graphing calculator, combined with a Preview option, which allows you to see what your expression looks like when presented as typeset mathematics.
The alternative is Symbol Mode, in which you enter formulas in an editing window, pick algebraic symbols and operators from a palette, and see your expressions appear in standard mathematical layout as you type.
In Text Mode you enter your answer in a single line and use the Preview option to view your response as a typeset mathematics expression. Preview demonstrates how the system interprets your entry (inspecting it for misplaced parentheses and other unintended keystrokes).
Text mode is quick and easy to use in any browser.
Equations are entered directly from the keyboard, using a syntax similar to that used by graphing calculators.
In text mode, x squared divided by y resembles the following.
(x^2)/y
Verify that Text Mode is indicated in the Equation Editor Modes dialog box.
Use the Preview option to view your entry in typeset form.
Your formula question should resemble the following.
Click inside the entry cell to begin. Enter your formula using standard mathematical notation. For details, see Basic Math Syntax in the System.
Note: The most common mistake is to forget parentheses "()". For example, the expression 1/(x+1) is different from 1/x+1 which the system interprets as |
See Also:
Basic Math Syntax in the System
The Symbol Mode for entering math expressions allows you to enter formulas in an editing window. You can select symbols and operators from palettes and see your expressions appear in standard mathematical layout as you type.
In symbol mode, x squared divided by y appears as:
Verify that Symbol Mode is indicated in the Equation Editor Modes dialog box.
If you have changed to Symbol Mode from inside the question you want to edit, load the question again. For information on how to load a question again, see Reloading Questions for Symbol Mode.
Right-click (Control-click on Macintosh) in the Math Editor field. The main palette is displayed.
Click a palette to display all symbols in the palette group.
Select a symbol/expression. It is displayed in the Equation Editor field.
Modify as necessary.
Click Next to move to the next question.
See Also:
Entering and Editing Formulas in Symbol Mode
Entering Expressions from Palettes
Important: If you change Math Entry Modes using this dialog box while you are responding to a question, your change takes effect after you move to the next question in your assignment. If you want to work with the current question using the alternate math entry mode, you must reload the question after selecting the math entry mode.
Use Change Math Entry Mode to select the preferred style of math entry.
Return to your question, and use the system's Next and Back buttons to scroll forward and then back to your question. This forces the system to reload the question using your preferred style of entry.
Enter your response to the question.
The system allows you to toggle Math Entry Modes as often as you want, depending on the requirements of the question and your personal preferences. Each time you change the style of math entry, the system remembers your responses on previous questions, and automatically translates them for you. If you move to a previous question (where you have already entered an answer), your response is displayed in the current editor mode.
You might notice that expressions converted by the system from Symbol Mode to Text Mode appear to have numerous parentheses inserted. This is normal, and is caused by the very explicit method of conversion from symbolic syntax to text that is required to ensure your symbolic expressions are accurately translated. It does not affect the way the mathematics in your answer is interpreted by the system, or the correctness of your responses when graded.