How to type math equations in Google Docs

Typing mathematical equations in Google Docs is straightforward with the built-in equation editor. You can insert a variety of symbols and structures using either a toolbar or LaTeX-style shortcuts for a faster workflow.

To get started, you’ll need to insert an equation box into your document.

1. Open the Equation Editor: Click on Insert in the top menu, select Symbols, and then select Equation. A new equation box will appear in your document, and the equation toolbar will become visible.
   • Keyboard Shortcut to open the Insert menu:
     • Windows/Linux: Alt + I
     • Mac: Ctrl + Option + I, then E
2. Use the Equation Toolbar: The toolbar provides a series of dropdown menus for different categories of symbols and structures:
   • Greek letters: Find symbols like .
   • Miscellaneous operations: Includes symbols like .
   • Relations: Contains symbols such as .
   • Math operators: Offers templates for fractions (), square roots (), and more.
   • Arrows: A selection of different arrow types.

To build your equation, simply click on the symbols or templates you need and fill in the numbers or variables. To add another equation, click the “New equation” button in the toolbar.

---

⌨️ Typing with LaTeX Shortcuts

For a more efficient way to write equations, you can use LaTeX-style commands directly within the equation box. As you type a command followed by a space, Google Docs will automatically convert it to the corresponding mathematical symbol or structure.

For example, to type the quadratic formula, you would:

1. Insert an equation box.
2. Type x = \frac{-b \pm \sqrt{b^2-4ac}}{2a} and press the spacebar.

Here are some common LaTeX shortcuts:

Command	Symbol/Structure
\frac{a}{b}
\sqrt{x}
x^2
x_i
\alpha, \beta, \theta
\pm
\neq
\leq, \geq
\cdot
\sum
\int