MathType FAQs: 12 common questions about writing equations

Preparing a worksheet, revising a research paper, or adding formulas to a presentation? MathType helps you write mathematical notation in the tools you already use. Getting started means choosing the right integration and learning a few simple steps.

This MathType FAQs answers 12 common questions about subscriptions, setup, writing equations, and sharing your work. You will also find official Wiris guides and video tutorials whenever you need a closer look.

Choosing MathType

1. What is MathType, and how is it different from Word’s equation editor?

MathType is Wiris’ equation editor for creating mathematical notation, from fractions and square roots to matrices and integrals. It works with Word, PowerPoint, Google Docs, and Google Slides, plus supported learning platforms. 

Word has its own equation editor, available through Insert > Equation. MathType is a separate product with its own visual editor, handwriting recognition, and equation formats. You can build expressions using symbols and templates without knowing LaTeX. Explore MathType’s tools and integrations.

2. Is MathType free, and how much does it cost?

MathType for Office Tools offers a 30-day free trial. The trial period is shared across Microsoft 365 and Google Workspace: starting it in one starts the same trial for both.

After the trial, Office Tools is available through annual educational and professional subscriptions. It includes MathType for Windows, Microsoft 365, and Google Workspace on supported platforms, with up to three devices per user. Compare current plans and prices.

3. Will I lose my equations when my trial or subscription expires?

The equations you inserted remain in your documents and presentations, where you can still view and print them. You need an active subscription to create new equations or edit existing ones with the Microsoft 365 and Google Workspace tools.

You can still read a worksheet or presentation after your access ends. To update its equations, renew your subscription or check your institutional access. See the activation and expiry guidance.

4. Which version of MathType should I use, and does it work on Mac?

Choose MathType for the application you use to write. Current Mac users can use the Microsoft 365 add-in or Google Workspace add-on on supported versions.

Where you work	MathType option
Word or PowerPoint	Microsoft 365 add-in for supported desktop, web, and iPad versions
Google Docs or Slides	Google Workspace add-on in a supported desktop browser
An existing Windows desktop workflow	MathType 7 for Windows
A learning platform such as Moodle or Canvas	Your institution’s MathType integration

Ready to write your first equation? Choose your platform and start your 30-day MathType for Office Tools trial.

Getting started and writing equations

5. How do I install and use MathType in Word or PowerPoint?

Install the MathType for Microsoft 365 add-in from Microsoft’s add-in store:

1. Open Word or PowerPoint and select Insert > Add-ins.
2. Open the store or Get Add-ins, search for MathType, and add it.
3. Open MathType and sign in to start your trial or use your subscription.
4. Create an expression in the editor and select Insert.

To edit an inserted MathType equation, select it and reopen MathType. Your organization may need to enable the add-in first. Follow the installation guide or watch Wiris’ tutorial on adding and editing equations in Word.

6. How do I install and use MathType in Google Docs or Slides?

Install MathType through the Google Workspace Marketplace, then open it from your document’s Extensions menu:

1. In Google Docs or Slides, select Extensions > Add-ons > Get add-ons.
2. Search for MathType and complete the installation.
3. Open Extensions > MathType, sign in, and create your equation.
4. Select Insert to add it to your document or slide.

Select an existing MathType equation and reopen the add-on to revise it. Use a supported desktop browser; the Google mobile apps do not support this add-on. Follow the installation guide or official Wiris Google Workspace video.

7. Can I handwrite equations in MathType?

Yes. MathType’s handwriting mode recognizes expressions drawn with a mouse, trackpad, touchscreen, or stylus. Write your expression, check the recognized result, and correct any symbols before inserting it.

This can help when writing a fraction or integral, as it feels more natural than selecting its parts from a toolbar. Switch to the visual editor to refine the expression. Handwriting recognition turns your strokes into mathematical notation; it does not provide a worked solution. Learn how to use handwritten input.

8. Does MathType support LaTeX and MathML?

Yes. MathType Web can import supported LaTeX and MathML into its visual editor. With the editor active, Ctrl+Shift+L opens the LaTeX window, and Ctrl+Shift+X opens MathML. You can also copy an equation’s code from these windows for reuse elsewhere.

For example, bring an existing LaTeX expression into a document and adjust it visually. Check complex expressions or custom commands against the supported notation in the LaTeX and MathML guide. For a demonstration in Word, watch Wiris’ MathType and LaTeX tutorial.

9. How do I edit existing or older MathType equations?

For a current MathType equation, select it and reopen it through the relevant add-in or add-on. Change the expression, then update it. The editor also provides font and size controls; saved defaults apply to new equations. See the formatting guide.

Older MathType 7 equations need conversion before editing in the Microsoft 365 add-in. In Word desktop, use MathType Add-in > Convert from MT7. Save a copy first: conversion is one-way, and formatting can change. This command is unavailable in Word Online and on iPad. Follow the MathType 7 conversion guide.

Using MathType and need help?

Contact Wiris support with your MathType version, operating system, application, and exact error message.

Sharing your work and getting help

10. Can I move MathType equations between Word and Google Docs?

Yes, supported MathType equations can move between the two applications, with a conversion step in the destination:

• Word to Google Docs: upload the document and choose File > Save as Google Docs. Open each equation you need in MathType and insert it again.
• Google Docs to Word: download the document as Microsoft Word (.docx), then open and reinsert the equations through MathType in Word.

Convert MathType 7 equations in Word first. Preserve equation metadata: a plain screenshot lacks the mathematical data needed to reopen it. Follow the Word and Google Docs transfer guide, and check editability after transferring your document.

11. Are MathType equations accessible to screen readers?

MathType provides accessibility features, with results depending on the integration, document, and assistive technology. In Word and Google Workspace, equations include readable descriptions and mathematical metadata.

Keep that metadata intact, enable the host application’s screen-reader support, and check the document with the assistive technology your audience uses. Read the guides for Word accessibility and Google Workspace accessibility. Check the format you plan to share: accessibility can differ in PowerPoint or an exported PDF.

12. Why is MathType not working, and where can I get help?

Start with the application, account, and equation format:

• Missing add-in or editor: confirm MathType is installed, your application is supported, and your organization permits it.
• Subscription not recognized: use the account or product key associated with your license. School access may require your institutional account.
• Equation visible but uneditable: check that it is a supported MathType equation with its metadata intact. A screenshot cannot reopen as an editable expression.

The MathType documentation and support notices cover more specific problems.

Bringing MathType to your school or university? Talk to our team about the setup that fits your teaching tools.