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Math Equations

A highlighted block equation

A highlighted block equation

Atlas supports mathematical equations powered by LaTeX and rendered by the KaTex Engine, letting you embed formulas and expressions directly in your documents. Whether you need an inline variable in a sentence or a standalone equation on its own line, Atlas renders them live as you work.

Inline and Block Equations

There are two ways to display an equation:

  • Inline — An expression that flows within a line of text, like a variable name or a short formula alongside your prose.
  • Block — A standalone equation displayed on its own line, typically used for more complex or important formulas that deserve visual emphasis.

An inline equation

An inline equation

Both types start with the same syntax — type $$ to begin an equation. Atlas determines whether it's inline or block based on its position: an equation on its own line becomes a block; an equation within a line of text stays inline.

Creating an Equation

The equation editor on macOS

The equation editor on macOS

Type $$ in the editor to open the equation editor, where you can compose and preview your expression before inserting it.

The equation editor works differently on each platform:

  • macOS — A popover appears near the cursor with a text field and live preview
  • iOS — A full editor view opens for composing and previewing the equation

Equations render live in both equation editors, so you can see exactly how your expression will look as you type it.

Tip

If you're not sure where to start with LaTeX syntax, Overleaf's guide to mathematical expressions is an excellent reference covering everything from basic operators to advanced notation.

Placeholders

Empty equation blocks display a √ symbol as a placeholder, making them easy to spot in your document. This is useful when you want to mark where an equation should go and fill it in later.

Equations in Exports

Equations are supported across all export formats:

Format How equations appear
HTML Rendered as images
ePub Rendered as images
PDF Rendered as images
Markdown LaTeX source preserved as-is
Plain Text Equation syntax included as-is
RTF Rendered as images

See Exporting Your Work for more on export formats and options.

Theming Equations

Equation appearance is customizable in the Theme Editor. Both inline equations and equation blocks are stylable independently under the Code category, with controls for:

  • Text color
  • Background color
  • Selected text color and selected background color

See The Theme Editor for details on customizing element styles.

See Also