Help
Introduction
This page aims to offer information on how to use SearchOnMath. Our tips relate basically to keyboard functionalities for inputting the mathematical formulas to be searched.
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 paste it on the search field. 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).
We've developed the keyboard with the main mathematical symbols 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.
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 over the search field. This will make the keyboard re-open.
Figure 3: Retracted and expanded keyboard.
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 4: Exemple 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 weekly new posts with fun facts about the world of Mathematics!