Choose an input method
Copy Unicode characters such as ∈, ∑ and ∫ into plain-text notes. Use an equation editor for fractions, limits and aligned expressions. A Unicode character and a LaTeX command are not interchangeable: pasting \alpha into plain text may simply display the command.
In Word
- Choose Insert → Equation. On Windows desktop, Alt + = also opens an equation region.
- Select LaTeX input if your version provides it.
- Enter
\frac{a}{b}or\int_0^1 x^2 dx, then convert to Professional format.
Menus and supported commands vary by platform and version. Word is not a full LaTeX compiler and does not run an entire .tex document in an equation field.
In LaTeX
Use \(a \in A\) for inline math, or \[\int_0^1 x^2\,dx = \frac{1}{3}\] for a displayed equation. Group multi-character subscripts with braces, for example x_{n+1}.
Troubleshooting
A missing-glyph box may indicate missing font support. An unchanged command may indicate the wrong input mode. Fonts and math engines can change the appearance of pasted content. Keep an editable formula rather than relying only on a screenshot.
Related guides
Set symbols: meanings and examples · How to type math symbols: text, Word and LaTeX · Calculus symbols: limits, derivatives, integrals and sums
Search all mathematical symbols