How to Add Equations to PDFs and Notepad

What This Does

Add fractions, powers and other equations to a PDF or Notepad. You see the maths as you type, then insert it as an image. Helperbird keeps the equation source in your saved workspace so you can change it later.

This feature needs Helperbird Pro. Creating the equation image happens on your device.

Step 1: Open the Equation Editor

In the PDF Reader, open your PDF. Choose More options in the top toolbar, then Insert equation. Its icon shows a mathematical function.

In Notepad, put your cursor where you want the equation. Choose Insert equation beside the image button in the text toolbar. This also works in the Notepad beside a PDF.

Step 2: Write Your Equation

Type into Your equation. For example, type x^2 to write x squared. The field shows the result as you type.

Choose Show math keyboard to find fractions, roots and other symbols. The keyboard fills the width of your screen, with the editor above it. Choose More options beneath the equation field for the math menu. You can also type LaTeX, such as \frac{1}{2} for one half.

Step 3: Insert Your Equation

Choose Insert.

On a PDF, the equation appears on the current page. Drag it into place. Use the corner handle to change its size. You can also focus its image and use the arrow keys to move it.

In Notepad, the equation appears at your cursor. If you selected text, it replaces that selection.

Edit an Equation

On a PDF, choose Edit equation in the equation’s page bar, beside the remove button. In Notepad, click the equation, or focus it and press Enter.

Change the equation and choose Save. Close the dialog or press Escape to leave it as it was.

Helperbird adds a text description to equation images for screen readers.

Save and Download

Your PDF workspace keeps equations with its other annotations. When you download, choose the option that includes your notes and drawings. The equation image becomes part of the downloaded PDF.

The downloaded PDF contains an image, not an editable or tagged maths object. Keep the original workspace if you need to edit the equation later. Its image description does not turn the downloaded PDF into an accessible maths document.

Notepad saves equations with your document. Word downloads include the image and its description. Plain text uses the description; Markdown keeps the LaTeX source.

For other ways to share maths, see Copy an equation from Helperbird.

Troubleshooting

Insert is unavailable: Write an equation first. Fill any empty fraction or root boxes before inserting it.

The equation cannot be inserted: Check the equation and try again. If you changed pages or documents, reopen Insert equation in the place you want to use.

I closed the dialog: Nothing is added until you choose Insert or Save.

Need Additional Help?

If you need help, contact Helperbird support.