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LaTeX excels at typesetting mathematical content. This reference covers math mode basics, symbols, equations, and advanced mathematical structures.

Math Mode Basics

LaTeX has two math modes:

Inline Math

Math within text: a2+b2=c2a^2 + b^2 = c^2

Display Math

Math on separate lines with automatic centering

Entering Math Mode

Important: Text-mode commands don’t work in math mode. Use math-specific commands for formatting.

Basic Math Commands

Superscripts and Subscripts

Fractions

Roots

Greek Letters

Lowercase Greek

Uppercase Greek

Mathematical Operators

Binary Operators

Relational Operators

Arrows

Large Operators

Delimiters

Basic Delimiters

Automatic Sizing

Mathematical Environments

Single Equations

Multiple Equations

Matrices

Advanced Features

Text in Math Mode

Math Fonts

Spacing in Math

Theorems and Proofs

Common Constructions

Derivatives

Integrals

Sums and Products

Best Practices

Math typesetting tips:
  1. Use proper math mode - Never use text italic for math
  2. Choose appropriate environments - align for equations that should align
  3. Label important equations - Use \label{eq:descriptive-name}
  4. Use \text{} for words - Don’t write words directly in math mode
  5. Let LaTeX handle spacing - Avoid manual spacing unless necessary

Quick Reference


Next: Explore Lists or learn about Tables for data presentation.