# Introduction to Formula Questions

## Overview

The powerful auto-grading math and chemistry engine permits content creators to ask open-ended questions. The author sets the parameters for the correct answer and, as long as the student’s response fits these parameters, the question will be scored as correct. This means that students can enter their answer in a wide variety of forms, and syntaxes, and will not be penalized for using different variable ordering, bracketing, or spaces between elements.

The following example is one from our math question examples using equivSymbolic scoring.

Sample Question:

There are a number of correct answers:

$$0.5$$true
$$\frac{2}{4}$$true
$$\frac{1}{2}$$true
$$0.25+0.25$$true
$$50\%$$true

Take a look at the Math and Chemistry scoring sections to learn more about various scoring methods available.

## Creating Math and Chemistry Expressions

Formula questions in Learnosity have a Template area, where authors can easily create math and chemistry expressions. LaTeX is a markup language used in Learnosity to render formula expressions. LaTeX can be entered by the authors in the Template area with the LaTeX Keypad. There are multiple ways to enter expressions. Take a look at the examples below:

Figure 1 - Creating math expressions with a response box. The author enters LaTeX in the Template area on the left side and the preview on the right side shows how the expression is rendered.

Figure 2 - Creating math expressions with response boxes.

Figure 3 - Creating chemistry expressions with a response box.

## Keyboards and Special Symbols

As well as a large level of scoring options, there is both an onscreen keyboard, which allows the input of symbols not readily available on standard QWERTY keyboards, as well as a handwriting feature, which enables students to utilize a touchscreen interface. Take a look at our Keyboard Types and Symbol Groups tutorials for more information.