Advanced Equation Editor
While the Quick Equation tool is perfect for most tasks, the Text To Table Converter Add-on also includes an Advanced Equation Editor for situations that require more control. Use it when you need to create numbered equations, use a virtual keyboard for complex symbols, or precisely manage formatting.
Accessing the Advanced Editor
You can open the editor in two ways, both of which will open a large dialog window ideal for focused work:
- From the Sidebar: Open the Equations (LaTeX) accordion and click the Equation Editor button.
- From the Menu: Go to
Extensions
>Text To Table Converter
>Equations (LaTeX)
>Equation Editor
.
If you have an equation selected in your document, the editor will automatically load it.
Using the Editor Window
The editor is designed for complex work, providing a rich set of tools in a dedicated window.
- Interactive Editor & Virtual Keyboard: The main input area provides a rich, real-time rendering of your LaTeX as you type. Use the built-in Virtual Keyboard to insert complex symbols, structures, and functions without needing to memorize the LaTeX commands.
- Raw LaTeX Code View: For power users, an expandable text area shows the underlying LaTeX code, which is always synchronized with the interactive editor.
- Customizing Image Size: Use the “Target Height” input to set a specific pixel height for the final rendered image, ensuring consistency across your document.
- Reset Button (↩️): Reverts all changes made during the current editing session.
Advanced Formatting in Google Docs™
When working with Block equations in Google Docs™, a special set of formatting options becomes available to create professionally structured, numbered equations.
- Layout in Table: The master switch. When enabled, your equation is placed in a clean, borderless 1x3 table. This structure is essential for stable alignment and numbering.
- Add Number: Enables equation numbering. You can customize the number or label (e.g., “1”, “1a”, “A.1”) in the text field.
- Numbering Style: Control the alignment (Left/Right) and enclosure style (e.g.,
(1)
,[1]
,1.
) of the number. - Add Bookmark: Automatically creates a Google Docs bookmark for your numbered equation, making it easy to create cross-references within your document.
Choosing the Right Tool
Not sure which editor to use? Here’s a quick guide:
-
Use the Advanced Equation Editor when you need to:
- Create numbered equations with labels.
- Use a virtual keyboard to find and insert complex symbols.
- Set a specific pixel height for your equation image.
-
For everything else, use the Quick Equation tool in the sidebar. It’s faster for creating and editing everyday equations.