Writer Guide

OOoMath provides scalable brackets. That is, the brackets grow in size
to match the size of their contents. Use the commands left( and right)
to make scalable brackets.
Markup Result
left( matrix { a # b ## c # d } right)

a b
c d

Tip
Use left[ and right] to obtain square brackets.
How do I make a derivative?
Making derivatives essentially comes down to one trick: Tell OOo it’s a
fraction .
In other words, you have to use the over command. Combine this with
either the letter d (for a total derivative) or the partial command (for a
partial derivative) to achieve the effect of a derivative.
Markup Result
{df} over {dx}
df
dx
{partial f} over {partial y}
∂ f
∂ y
{partial^2 f} over {partial t^2}
∂
2
f
∂t
2
Note
Notice that we had to use squiggly brackets to make the
derivative.
Numbering equations
Equation numbering is one of OOoMath’s best hidden features. The
steps are simple, but obscure:
1) Start a new line.
2) Type fn and then press F3 .
The fn is replaced by a numbered formula:
E=mc
2
(2)
502 OpenOffice.org 3 Writer Guide