Including Math Equations & Symbols (Questions & Discussions)

Including math equations, symbols, and more in your Top Hat questions and discussions is possible using the Inline Symbol Selector or LaTeX, a popular markup language.

Table of Contents

  1. LaTeX for New Builder Questions
  2. LaTeX for Classic Questions
  3. Math, Greek and Misc Symbol Selector

LaTeX for New Builder Questions

The new question builder introduces a streamlined process for inserting LaTeX expressions. The system automatically renders your code into professional mathematical notation.

Steps to Insert LaTeX

  1. Position the Cursor: Place your cursor in the editor where you want to insert the mathematical expression.
  2. Insert LaTeX Block: Click the Insert LaTeX Expression button (the square root icon) in the toolbar.The New Question Builder toolbar with the square root 'Insert LaTeX' button highlighted.Image: Locating the LaTeX button in the toolbar
  3. LaTeX Block Appears: A dedicated block will appear in the editor. You can now begin entering your code.A blank LaTeX block with an active cursor waiting for input within the question text area.Image: An active LaTeX block
  4. Enter LaTeX Expression: Use the code editor appearing below the block. The expression renders in real-time.The LaTeX code editor showing the markup for a complex fraction and the real-time preview above it.Image: Real-time rendering of LaTeX code
  5. Formatting Options: Switch between Inline (within text) and Display (centered on its own line) modes.The formatting menu showing options for Inline and Display modes.Image: Switching between Inline and Display formatting

Accessibility Note: LaTeX in the New Builder is fully compatible with screen readers, ensuring students with visual impairments can access mathematical content.

LaTeX for Classic Questions

To add LaTeX expressions into classic question types, you must use specific "shortcode" tags to tell Top Hat where the math begins and ends.

Syntax and Steps:

  1. Type [math] to indicate the start of the expression.
  2. Type your LaTeX formula: e.g., A = \pi r^{2}.
  3. End by typing [/math] to close the expression.
  4. Final Result: [math] A = \pi r^{2} [/math]

An example of the classic question editor showing the math shortcodes being used in a question stem.Image: Entering math tags in the Classic Question BuilderThe rendered version of the area formula as it appears to students.Image: Rendered LaTeX in a Classic Question

Warning: Math written in LaTeX is not accessible to screen readers in classic questions. Use the New Builder for accessible math content.

Math, Greek and Misc Symbol Selector

For simple symbols that do not require full LaTeX, use the Inline Symbol Selector (the Omega symbol Ω). You can choose from Math, Greek, or Miscellaneous categories.

Note: The symbol selector is currently available only for Classic question types. Symbol support for the New Builder is coming soon.

The symbol selector menu open in the Classic Question Builder, showing various mathematical and Greek characters.Image: The Inline Symbol Selector

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