Numeracy tools

Inclusive Technology Guide

EquatIO

EquatIO allows users to insert and edit maths notation and graphs by hand, type or speech recognition in Microsoft Word or Google Docs. There’s a huge library of ready-made expressions to save you time, from simple formulas to complex functions. You can then have your equations read back to you using text-to-speech in Google Docs using the free Read and Write extension for Chrome. It has an easy-to-use interface that can be docked at the bottom of your screen.

  • Compatible with Google Docs, Windows and Mac (full list of free features here)
  • Enter math expressions via your device’s keyboard, touchscreen or voice input
  • Math-to-Speech (with Read&Write) to hear your equations read out aloud
  • Handwriting recognition (limited to 2 per day on the free version)
  • Support for Math Writing Shortcuts
  • Static graphing
  • LaTeX input

It’s great to be able to input equations through dictation and then hear them read back afterwards to check for errors. This is a real breakthrough for people with dyscalculia!

Equatio

Chrome store

Video guide

Inclusive Technology Guide

Back to top

MathType

You can type and hand write mathematical and chemical notation directly into Google Docs with this MathType add-on. It has built-in handwriting recognition for touch screens (or you can use your mouse). You can also use MathType Web (also free!) to create and edit equations in your browser. You can download MathType for Microsoft Word, but this is a paid for service. If you are looking for a similar programme to work in Microsoft Word for free, we recommend trying MyScript Math Sample.

  • Hand write mathematical expressions using mouse, tablet or touchscreen
  • Allows building of complex equations with addition of handwritten equations
  • Edit equations with MathML & LaTex
  • Allows tables from spreadsheets, document or webpage to be pasted as matrix
  • Ability to change fonts of images and colour coding which is useful for programmers
  • Editable equations inline or in separate window
  • Customise keyboard shortcut allowing for ease of use.
  • Use ChemType to create chemical notation. A personalized toolbar with specialized chemistry buttons to edit your inorganic chemistry formulas.
  • Works with screen readers and other assistive technology eg. Equatio

Very handy to have a math tool that integrates with Google Docs, particularly being able to jot down equations by hand and be able to work with it directly in the doc.

Using MathType in Google Docs

Video guide

Accessibility information

Inclusive Technology Guide

Back to top

PhotoMath

PhotoMath is an awesome app available for iPhone, iPad and Android. You can scan a maths equation in typed text or handwriting and it will instantly solve it and show you the step-by-step method it used to find the answer. Having the steps explained helps users to become familiar with the process needed to solve mathematical equations, building confidence and know how.

  • Download for free to iOS and Android devices
  • Scan an equation and Photomath will help you solve it by using the camera of your mobile device.
  • Get step-by-step explanations of how to solve equations – learn how to approach maths problems through clear steps and detailed instructions. You can even choose between multiple explanation methods for some problems.
  • View animated step-by-step instructions to solve your equations, a nice visual way to learn.
  • Use it to proofread your equations, check your work for any printed or handwritten problems.
  • Use the smart calculator to enter or edit scanned equations using an intuitive maths keyboard. Experiment with changes to get a deeper understanding of maths problems.
  • Use graphs to visualise your equations. You can not only explore graph details such as the root, the domain, etc. but also use graphs to interpret solutions of equations.

It’s a brilliant tool that enables everyone to access a magic kind of maths tutor at their fingertips.

PhotoMath

Video guide

Inclusive Technology Guide

Back to top