Help Using Word Equation Editor

Question

1. I cant find a way to create a block matrix. That is a matrix which is split in submatrices by vertical and horizontal lines.

2. I cant find a way to cancel equation terms that go to zero with an arrow striking through them.

Thank you very much for your helpful tips!!!

Answer 1

Hello, Vasileios Xenodochidis

Welcome to Microsoft Comm

Creating specific mathematical notations in Word's Equation Editor can be challenging. Word does not directly support the use of vertical or horizontal solid lines to divide matrices. However, if you're open to using the native equation editor, there are several workarounds available.

1. Creating a Block Matrix:

To create a block matrix with horizontal and vertical lines separating submatrices:

1. Insert a Matrix:
   • Go to the "Insert" tab and click on "Equation" (or press Alt + = to start an equation).
   • In the "Design" tab under "Equation Tools," click on "Matrix."
   • Select the size of the matrix you need (e.g., 2x2).
   • Now, right click on the Matrix, Insert rows/columns as shown in the image
   • 
2. Insert Vertical and Horizontal Lines:
   • After inserting the matrix, you need to manually draw lines to split the matrix into submatrices.
   • To draw lines, go to the "Insert" tab, select "Shapes," and choose the "Line" tool.
   • Draw vertical and horizontal lines at the appropriate positions within the matrix. You may need to adjust the position carefully. As shown in the picture below:
   • 
3. Adjust Line Thickness and Position: You can format the lines by right-clicking on them, choosing "Format Shape," and adjusting the thickness to make them more visible.

Note: Word's formula editor doesn't natively support inserting these lines, and you may need to use additional methods to achieve this result. If you just want the printed PDF to look good, Insert – Shapes– Lines is a great way to do it. Result shown below:

2. Creating a Strikethrough with Arrow for Cancelled Terms:

To create an arrow striking through terms that go to zero:

1. Start by typing the term that will be cancelled (e.g., ∂T∂t\frac{\partial T}{\partial t}∂t∂T) using the Equation Editor. Here I use Script, see the pictures:
2. 
3. Insert the Arrow:
   • Click on the Insert tab and select the arrow you need, to select it.
   • Repeat the operation like inserting the matrix
   • 
   • Adjust the arrow's size and angle to match the desired appearance.

Note: Microsoft Word's native formula editor lacks a built-in "cancel" or "strikethrough" feature similar to LaTeX. However, you can approximate this effect by combining different elements. Alternatively, image editing tools can be used to create the strikethrough effect, and the resulting image can be inserted into your document.

There are also other tools you can use, which often develop additional features to insert these formulas. See the following thread for suggestions that MVPs have posted before: MathType Usage - Microsoft Community

Feel free to let me know if anything unclear, thanks!

Chandy.L | Microsoft Community Support Specialist