- Simplify
- Input help
On this screen you can simplify any expression according to the basic rules of algebra. For a different operation, press and select the desired operation.
How do I factor an expression?
If an expression is a factorable sum (e.g. x2-b4), the Quickmath solver will factor it for you. Note that the expression should be completely simplified prior to factoring.
How can I expand or multiply out an expression?
When an expression is in a factored form and each factor is simplified (e.g. (a-x) * (5xy-2a)), the Quickmath solver will automatically expand it.
How can I simplify an equation or inequality?
You can not. Equations and inequalities cannot be simplified; instead they can to be solved. Press the and then select ‘Solve equations and inequalities’, to solve an equation, inequality or a system.
How do I enter another expression to simplify?
Press and then select ‘New’ to erase the current expression. Alternatively for short expressions, just press the ⌫ key several times.
How can I I enter an exponent?
Enter the base first and then press ^ to enter the exponent. Once you are done, press ➡ to return the cursor to the base.
Is there a notation for entering mixed numbers (e.g. 9 ½) ?
No, because it is not needed. You simply enter them as a sum (for example, 9+½). However, be aware that you need to place parentheses around the mixed number, it the number is negative. (for example, -(9+½)).
How can I enter a fraction?
You can either use the fraction template ÷, to fill-in the numerator and denominator or fraction line key / when you have already entered the numerator. However, note that when you enter: a+b/c, only variable 'a' will end up in the numerator. If you want 'a+b' in the numerator, you need to enclose it in parentheses. Using the ÷ avoids this potential confusion.
How can I divide?
Press the F to access the alternate keyboard. Then, press : for division.
How do I enter an expression under a root?
For square root, press √, and enter the expression. For a cube root and higher order roots press F and the press ∛. You can use the ⬅ to access root index (in case you need higher order roots).
How do I edit something in the middle of an expression without erasing everything?
Use the ⬅ to reach the desired editing point. You can also press the edit point, although this may be a little tricky for smaller screen sizes.
Majority of the problems found in a typical highschool / college algebra textbook can be entered using the default keyboard layout. However, if you need to enter a different variable, a function (e.g. sin, log), or a special constant (such as π), press the A or F keys to access alternate keyboards. Once you press an alternate keyboard key, the keyboard will go back to the primary keyboard.
The ↻ key remembers the last variable you entered. This will speed up the problem entry since you don't have to repeatedly access the alternate keyboard layout for frequently used variables.
⬅ and ➡ allow you to move through the expression, one character at the time. For faster access you can press the desired edit point. Please note that this method is not very precise on small screens. ⬅ and ➡ are also used to 'exit' exponents, denominators, parentheses and absoulte value expressions.
You need to be aware of your cursor location. For example, if you type in x^2 to enter the power x2, and keep typing, everything you type will remain in the exponent. Make sure to 'exit' the exponent before adding another term (e.g. x2+2a). The exponent is exited via the ➡ key.
When you press (, both left and right parenthesis are created, and the cursor is placed inside. Once you are finished typing the parenthesized expression, use the ➡ key to exit the enclosing parentheses. Follow the same procedure for the absolute value key.
In order to create a subscripted variable, first enter the variable without the subscript. Then press _ and enter the subscript. After you are done with the subscript, press the , to exit the subscript mode. The same principle applies to the power (superscript) key ^. Radical expressions are handled differently. If you want an expression under the root, first press the root key √, and then enter the expression.