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Using the tasks math editor as an author
Using the tasks math editor as an author

Course authors can format mathematical equations and chemical formulas in tasks.

Caitlin Foran avatar
Written by Caitlin Foran
Updated yesterday

In a task, most fields have the option to add math or chemistry notation via a LaTeX/MathML editor (under the Sigma symbol).

Screenshot showing LaTeX/MathML editor box appeared after the field for Latex is selected from the toolbar

To add your math notation, put your cursor where you want the notation to appear and select the Sigma symbol.

Selecting the Sigma symbol brings up a math editor with some of the common notations needed.

Screenshot showing LaTeX/MathML editor that allows authors to add notions

To enter your math, simply add the parts you need by using the relevant buttons. If you’re new to using the editor, you might want to watch this video we created for learners.

Note: The exact options a learner sees are a little different as you have access to more as an author.

Tips for using the math editor

Entering math notation can be a little more complex than text so here are some tips we hope will help:

  • Make sure your cursor is at the top of your screen when you open the editor so you can see the entire window.

  • Sometimes the editor can take a little longer than other things to load, if you're worried something has gone wrong, give it a few seconds more and it will probably load.

  • You can save time by using the keyboard tips like * for times, / for fraction, and ^ for "to the power of".

  • If you're after something a little more complex, you can select View Source and add in your LaTeX (or MathML) as you usually would in a text element. See How to format maths and chemistry formulas with LaTeX for more detail.

Once you've entered your math, select OK to save it.

Screenshot showing LaTeX/MathML editor with example of a maths formula added by the author

You’ll then see your math elements shown with a dotted line.

Screenshot showing LaTeX/MathML after it was added to the task

You can re-edit a math element by double-clicking it within the dotted field .

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