Using Brackets

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We have already seen the use of brackets to logically identify the numerator and denominator in complicated fractions.  This is a very important use of brackets.  Brackets are also used to logically identify powers and subscripts.

 

Two bracket types, [ and ( may be used interchangeably in the equation tool and the equation tool makes no distinction between them.  The equation tool does not even check to see if brackets are paired.  You are responsible for this.  If there is a fraction inside a bracket, the bracket is automatically resized.

 

Example:

clip0135                is entered as 3[(x-2)2+1/2]

 

Braces in equations (eg {3/4+2/3} ) are treated differently by the equation tool. If Evaluate Braces is switched on, the equation tool will replace anything within braces by the calculated result. In this case, entering {3/4+2/3} will be displayed as 17/12 or 1.42... depending on your display settings.

 

You can find more information on Braces in Equations in The Inline Calculator