Entering expressions

MathMate uses a sort of command line (expression field) for its work.

In the expression field you can enter and edit mathematical expressions. Quick samples:

2*2
sqrt(PI)
sin(x^2*t)+z^2+exp(-x)
You can enter an expression either by typing it directly on the keyboard or clicking buttons with the mouse. With the keyboard you just type in an expression, an alternative way is using MathMate's keypads and function panel. When you click keypad buttons the corresponding symbols are typed at cursor. To insert a function name click the corresponding button on the function panel (the function panel shows the names of elementary functions, it can be switched to show the names of built-in special functions). When you click a button in the function panel the corresponding name appears immediately in the expression field followed by round brackets for your convenience.

MathMate's keypads provide complete functionality without the keyboard. They carry all the necessary symbols that can be used in the expressions: numbers, symbols of mathematical and logical operations, punctuation signs, backspace and clear simulation, characters usually used for parameter names, such as x, y, z, t. If you wish to enter other characters use the keyboard.

Recent expressions are stored in the history list and may be reused by highlighting the corresponding line after opening the history menu.

MathMate log viewer also gives a possibility to insert text into the expression field. Highlight the text you wish to insert and choose the Copy button. The highlighted text is then sent to the internal clipboard and can be pasted from there.

Expressions may contain:

Blank spaces in the expression are ignored. Lowercase and uppercase characters are interpreted as different symbols.

See also