how to write latex in markdown of jupyter notebook

Guri Bee

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21-10-2024

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Writing LaTeX in Jupyter Notebook: A Comprehensive Guide

Jupyter Notebook is a powerful tool for data scientists and researchers, providing a convenient platform to combine code, text, and visualizations. But what about incorporating mathematical equations and formulas? This is where LaTeX comes in. LaTeX is a typesetting language widely used for its ability to render complex mathematical notation with precision and elegance.

This article will guide you through the process of seamlessly integrating LaTeX into your Jupyter Notebook markdown cells. We'll explore various LaTeX commands, delve into practical examples, and offer tips for optimizing your mathematical expression writing.

1. The Basics: Inline and Display Math

In Jupyter Notebook, you can use LaTeX in two modes:

a) Inline Math: For equations embedded within text, use single dollar signs ($) to enclose the LaTeX code:

This is an example of inline math: $x^2 + y^2 = z^2$.

Output: This is an example of inline math: $x^2 + y^2 = z^2$.

b) Display Math: For equations displayed on separate lines, use double dollar signs ($):

$
\sum_{i=1}^n a_i = a_1 + a_2 + ... + a_n
$

Output:

$$\sum_{i=1}^n a_i = a_1 + a_2 + ... + a_n$$

2. Essential LaTeX Commands

Let's explore some commonly used LaTeX commands for mathematical expressions:

• Fractions: \frac{numerator}{denominator}

$
\frac{1}{2} + \frac{3}{4} = \frac{5}{4}
$

Output:

$$\frac{1}{2} + \frac{3}{4} = \frac{5}{4}$$

• Subscripts and Superscripts: _ for subscripts and ^ for superscripts

$
x_{10} + y^{10} 
$

Output:

$$x_{10} + y^{10}$$

• Greek Letters: \alpha, \beta, \gamma, \delta, etc.

$
\alpha + \beta = \gamma
$

Output:

$$\alpha + \beta = \gamma$$

• Summation: \sum

$
\sum_{i=1}^n i^2
$

Output:

$$\sum_{i=1}^n i^2$$

• Integral: \int

$
\int_0^1 x^2 dx
$

Output:

$$\int_0^1 x^2 dx$$

• Limits: \lim

$
\lim_{x \to 0} \frac{\sin(x)}{x} = 1
$

Output:

$$\lim_{x \to 0} \frac{\sin(x)}{x} = 1$$

3. Advanced LaTeX Commands

Let's move on to more complex mathematical notations:

• Matrices: Use \begin{pmatrix} ... \end{pmatrix}

$
\begin{pmatrix}
1 & 2 \\
3 & 4 
\end{pmatrix}
$

Output:

$$\begin{pmatrix} 1 & 2 \\ 3 & 4 \end{pmatrix}$$

• Vectors: Use \overrightarrow{}

$
\overrightarrow{a} + \overrightarrow{b} = \overrightarrow{c}
$

Output:

$$\overrightarrow{a} + \overrightarrow{b} = \overrightarrow{c}$$

• Operators: Use \operatorname{} for custom operators

$
\operatorname{max}(x,y)
$

Output:

$$\operatorname{max}(x,y)$$

4. Troubleshooting and Tips

• Syntax Errors: LaTeX is strict about syntax. Double-check your code for missing parentheses, brackets, or misplaced commands.
• Refer to LaTeX Documentation: The comprehensive LaTeX documentation is an invaluable resource for learning more about commands and symbols.
• Use LaTeX Editors: Consider using dedicated LaTeX editors, such as Overleaf, for a smoother editing experience and real-time preview.

5. Beyond the Basics:

• Custom Symbols: You can define your own symbols using LaTeX's macro capability. Refer to the LaTeX documentation for guidance.
• Packages: Explore LaTeX packages to extend your mathematical expression capabilities. For example, the amsmath package provides additional mathematical functions and environments.

6. Conclusion:

By mastering the art of LaTeX in Jupyter Notebook, you can elevate the presentation of your mathematical work. This guide provides a foundational understanding of the key concepts and commands for seamlessly integrating elegant mathematical expressions into your analyses and reports. As your needs evolve, continue exploring the vast resources available in the LaTeX ecosystem to enhance your mathematical communication skills.