Add mathematical equations

You can add mathematical expressions and equations as floating objects on a spreadsheet. To add an equation, you compose it in the Numbers equation dialog using LaTeX commands or MathML elements, then insert it into your spreadsheet.

You can also add equations inline with the text inside text boxes and shapes.

Note: If you’ve installed MathType 6.7d or later (an application for composing math expressions), you can use it to create equations by clicking symbols and typing in the MathType window.

Add an equation with LaTeX or MathML

  1. Do one of the following:

    • Place the equation inline with text: Place the insertion point in a text box or shape, or select the text you want the equation to replace.

    • Place the equation so it can be moved freely: Click outside the sheet to make sure nothing is selected.

  2. Choose Insert > Equation (from the Insert menu at the top of your screen).

  3. If you have MathType installed, a dialog appears, asking whether to use Numbers to create the equation. Click Use Numbers.

  4. Enter an equation in the field using LaTeX commands or MathML elements.

    The Edit Equation dialog, showing the quadratic formula written using LaTeX in the Edit Equation field, and a preview of the formula below.

    For information on using supported LaTeX commands or MathML elements and attributes, see the Apple Support article About LaTeX and MathML support.

  5. Click Insert.

  6. Drag the equation to reposition it on the sheet.

Add an equation with MathType

If you have MathType 6.7d or later, you can use it to add equations to your spreadsheet.

Tip: To set MathType as the default equation editor, choose Numbers > Preferences (from the Numbers menu at the top of your screen), click General, then select “Insert equations with MathType.”

  1. Do one of the following:

    • Place the equation inline with text: Place the insertion point in the text box or shape, or select the text you want the equation to replace.

    • Place the equation so it can be moved freely: Click outside the sheet to make sure nothing is selected.

  2. Choose Insert > Equation (from the Insert menu at the top of your screen).

    If you set MathType as your default equation editor, MathType opens automatically (after you enter an equation the first time). Otherwise, click Use MathType in the dialog that appears.

  3. To enter the equation, click symbols and type in the MathType window.

    For instructions on using the MathType tools, see MathType Help.

  4. To save your equation, choose File > Close and Return to Numbers (from the File menu at the top of your screen), then click Yes in the dialog that appears.

  5. Drag the equation to reposition it on the sheet.

To edit the equation, double-click the equation to open the MathType window.

Edit, delete, or move an equation with LaTeX or MathML

After you add an equation, you can modify it.

See alsoPosition and align objectsPlace objects inside a text box or shape