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Equations

Mathematical and scientific notation can be challenging to make accessible due to the following reasons:

  • Specialized knowledge or software is required to produce many types of equations in a format that can be read by screen readers.
  • Many popular screen readers do not interpret all equations as intended or in a way that is comprehensible to the user; however, tools for reading mathematical notation comprehensibly (e.g., MathCAT) are being continually improved.

These challenges are among the reasons many have tended to present mathematical and scientific notation in images, rather than real text (e.g., by using a mathematical editor or markup language). Images of equations present their own challenges for accessibility because screen readers cannot interpret images of text, whether mathematical notation or words, handwritten or typed; so, images of equations must be accompanied by equivalent text.

Best Practices

Use software or online tools to produce mathematical notation in an accessible format.

  • Use the integrated equation editor available in some platforms, (e.g., Canvas, Microsoft).
  • Use a mathematical markup language.
    • MathML provides access to visual representation of equations and to speaking mathematical notation comprehensibly by assistive technology.
      • MathML Central by Wolfram converts text mathematical expressions to MathML
    • LaTeX can be input into popular equation editors (e.g., Canvas, Microsoft).
    • ASCIImath is an easier-to-write markup language for mathematics.
    • Mathjax converts MathML, LaTeX, or ASCIImath to HTML+CSS, Scalable Vector Graphics (SVG), or MathML
  • Convert images of equations to real text
    • MathPix converts images of equations into MathML, LaTeX, or ASCIImath
    • Equatio features
      • Equation editor that can take typed, spoken, image, or handwritten input
      • Output options include image with alt text; LaTeX; MathML; HTML.
  • For images of equations, provide equivalent text in at least one way:
    • Alt text
    • Caption
    • Separate section of text provided or linked close to the image
  • Present equations in a recorded narrated video (e.g., Panopto, Zoom) with accurate synchronous captions and transcript.

Resources