There are two ways to enter symbolic or numeric math expressions as part of your responses to questions.
The system default mode is Text
Mode, in which you enter symbolic or numeric math expressions in a
simple keyboard notation, much like a graphing calculator.
For formula questions,
you can also use the Symbol Mode,
which allows you to enter formulas in a WYSIWYG (What you see is what
you get) editing window, pick algebraic symbols and operators from a palette,
and see your expressions appear in standard mathematical layout as you
type.
For a tutorial on math syntax, see Basic Math Syntax in the System.
Note: Some question modes involving math expressions in answers do not offer you the option of Symbol Mode (for example, numeric or formula questions requiring you to include a physical dimension along with a number). For these questions you must enter your response in Text Mode, although you can use the Preview option to see how the system interprets your typed entry (inspecting it for misplaced parentheses and other unintended keystrokes).
Important: The symbolic equation editor, which uses WebEQ, currently does not work when the client is running on Mac OS 9 or Mac OS X. This means that the symbolic math entry mode is not available on these platforms. It is recommended that you use the text entry mode.