Getting Started Guide

Brackets with matrices look ugly!
For background, we start with an overview of the matrix command.
Markup Result
matrix { a # b ## c # d }
a b
c d
Note
Rows are separated by two #’s and entries within each row are
separated by one #.
The first problem people have with matrices is that brackets do not
scale with the matrix.
Markup Result
( matrix { a # b ## c # d } )
OOo Math 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.
Note
Notice that we have to use braces (squiggly brackets) to make
the derivative.
Chapter 9 Getting Started with Math 323
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