Chapter 23: Visualizing with Custom Number Formats and Shapes
23
Using the Equation Editor
The final section in this chapter deals with the Equation Editor. Use this feature to insert a
nicely formatted mathematical equation as a graphics object.
Figure 23.25 shows an example of an equation in a worksheet. Keep in mind that these
equations do not perform calculations; they’re for display purposes only.
FIGURE 23.25
An equation created by the Equation Editor
The best way to become familiar with the Equation Editor is to insert one of the premade
equations. Choose Insert ➪ Symbols ➪ Equation, and choose one of equations from the gal-
lery. The equation is inserted into your worksheet.
When you select an Equation object, you have access to two contextual tabs:
Drawing Tools Used to format the container object
Equation Tools Used to edit the equation
The Equation Tools ➪ Design tab contains three groups of controls:
Tools Used to insert a new equation or control how the equation is displayed. Click the
dialog box launcher in the bottom-right corner of the Tools group to display the Equation
Options dialog box, where you can specify the way the equation is copied and define key-
board shortcuts (click Math AutoCorrect).
Symbols Contains common mathematical symbols and operators that you can use in your
equations.
Structures Contains templates for various structures that are used in equations.
Describing how to use the Equation tools is more difficult than actually using them.
Generally, you add a structure and then edit the various parts by adding text or symbols.
You can put structures inside structures, and there is no limit to the complexity of the
equations. It might be a bit tricky at first, but it doesn’t take long before you understand
how it works.