Tips on using the math palette

Here are some answers to common questions about using the math palette. Select a question to display its answer.

My cursor is stuck inside a template. How do I get it out?

Tap or use the arrow keys in the math palette to move in and out of the template. If the cursor looks small, you are inside the template. If the cursor looks big, you are outside of the template. For example, suppose you need to enter a fraction followed by a variable.

1. With your cursor in the answer area, select the fraction template .

   The template appears in the answer area:

   

   Notice that the cursor looks small.

2. Enter 3 as the numerator and then press the right arrow key.

   The cursor moves down to the denominator box:

   

3. Enter 4 as the denominator and then press the right arrow key.

   Notice that the cursor is now big, which means you are outside of the template.

   

4. Enter the variable, a:

   

How do I combine templates to create a complicated expression?

You can put a template inside another template to create complicated expressions. Make sure your cursor is inside the correct blue template box, and then select the template you want to insert.

For example, suppose you need to enter a fraction with the square root of 3 over 4:

1. Place your cursor in the answer box.
2. Select the fraction template .
3. Make sure your cursor is blinking in the numerator box:

   

4. In the math palette, select the square root template. The square root symbol appears as the numerator:

   

5. Enter the values in the blue boxes.

Can I use keyboard shortcuts to enter symbols?

You can use keyboard shortcuts to enter mathematical formats and symbols. See Use keyboard shortcuts for details.

How do I undo my answer?

Do any of the following to remove an individual entry from the answer box:

• Select the undo icon in the math palette.
• Use the Backspace or Delete key on your keyboard to remove the entry.
• Select Clear All, at the bottom of the player window, to clear an entire answer.