How to Use MathType to Format Math Notation
This document provides directions to help teachers with MathType installed on their computer to format math
notation. Note: At the time of publication of this document, only middle school and high school math teachers are
authorized to have Math Type installed onto their computer.
Accessing MathType in Item Builder
1. To open the MathType program, click the MathType icon denoted as a blue Sigma in the
ribbon at the top of the Item Builder window.
2. The MathType dashboard will appear.
Entering a Math Equation or Expression
3. In the MathType window, type numbers, letters, and other operators such as: + - = < > using
the keyboard.
MathType Window
You will input text
and notation here.
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4. For additional symbols, the first two rows of the toolbar include palettes which group similar
symbols and templates. Note: if the toolbar is not visible, click View to insure the toolbar is checked.
5. Click on a palette to reveal further symbols available for use.
6. The third row is called the Small Bar and includes frequently used symbols and templates. Most
of what you will need to format your math notation can be found here.
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Entering Fractions into a Math Equation or Expression
1. Click the fraction template in the palette or from the Small Bar.
2. When you click on the fraction template, the insertion point is in the numerator. Type the
numerator into the placeholder.
3. Use the tab key or click inside the denominator to move the cursor to the denominator. Type
the denominator.
4. Use the right arrow key or click outside the denominator to move the cursor outside the
placeholder, and to continue the expression or equation.
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Entering Exponents / Superscript
1. Type the value requiring the superscript.
2. Click the script palette and select the superscript template, or click the superscript template
in the Small Bar.
3. Type the numbers or variables for the exponent, or superscript.
4. Use the right arrow key or click outside the placeholder to continue the expression or equation.
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Using Bar Notation for Repeating Decimals
1. Enter the math text in the MathType window up to the value requiring the bar notation.
2. Click the accent palette. Select the bar notation template.
3. A placeholder with the bar notation will appear. Type the repeating value(s) in the placeholder.
5. Use the right arrow key or click outside the placeholder to continue the expression or equation.
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Entering Radicals
1. Click the fraction and radical palette and select the desired format. Note: Commonly used
square root can be chosen from the Small bar.
2. Type the values for the index and/or radicand.
3. Use the right arrow key or click outside the placeholder to continue the expression or equation
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Other Less Commonly Used Math Notation

Additional math notation can be found within the palettes in the dashboard.

Click each button to explore the available notation for each.

Look for commonly used expressions in the Large Tabbed Bar which is grouped by subject.
Additional Help

Click Help in the ribbon at the top of the dashboard and to access the searchable MathType
Table of Contents or to view MathType tutorials.
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