Help
Introduction
This page aims to offer information on how to use SearchOnMath. A companion short video illustrating the main functionalities of SearchOnMath is available below.
Our tips relate basically to keyboard functionalities for inputting the mathematical formulas to be searched. To search for textual content, simply type (or paste) the text of interest and click on the search button, just like in a traditional search engine.
TeX and LaTeX
SearchOnMath uses the TeX (or LaTeX) language for mathematical expressions. If you already have a formula in this format, all you have to do is click on "Add Formula", which will insert the symbols ${ and }$ in the search field. Your formula is to be inserted between them, as in ${E=mc^2}$. You'll see that the formula is rendered in the field right above (we use MathJax for rendering). If an error occurs in the rendering phase, go back to the TeX/LaTeX expression and make sure that the portion causing the error is fixed. If you find no mistakes despite the problems in rendering, you may go ahead and proceed with the search anyway.
Figure 1: Problem rendering \sinx (without space between \sin and x).
A keyboard with the main mathematical symbols is also available to assist you in assembling formulas. The symbols are organized into the following tabs: General, Calculus, Relational, Arrow, Set, Geometry, Logic, Greek, Misc (Miscellaneous).
Figure 2: Expanded keyboard.
Though at first it may seem daunting, with only a little practice we guarantee you'll even learn the syntax of the main TeX/LaTeX commands. :)
You can also add textual elements to your query, always making sure that they appear outside the symbols ${ and }$.
Figure 3: Searching for both text and math formulas.
Results page
The results page follows the pattern of a traditional search tool: formulas similar to the one you searched, a preview of the pages where they appear, and links to access those pages (by clicking on the titles).
The keyboard gets retracted when results are displayed in order to enhance visualization. If you want to work on a new search, just click inside the search field. Positioning the cursor between the symbols ${ and }$ will cause the formula keyboard to be displayed once again.
Figure 4: Working on a new query in the results page.
Each formula is displayed with the icons for expand and search. The expand icon displays the complete formula, whereas the search icon submits the result to be searched.
Figure 5: Example of a displayed result.
Well, that's it. You're ready to start using SearchOnMath.com. And don't forget to visit our pages on the social networks for new posts with fun facts about the world of Mathematics!