Symbols

You can predefine a bunch of commonly used ‘symbols’ and choose from them when editing text. This can be handy when trying to write mathematical text (eg. √9 ≠ 4) It’s not Latex or Mathjax but it helps! The symbols are synced between Mac and iPad (assuming you’re logged into iCloud.)

MacOS

When editing text press COMMAND+CONTROL+OPTION+SPACE and the symbol picker will be presented - as below:

You can edit the symbols in the Preferences - as below. There is a built in symbol browser in MacOS (CONTROL+COMMAND+SPACE) that you can use to add new symbols.

iPad

On iPad edit some text then tap on the ‘infinity’ symbol on the right above the keyboard to present the symbol picker. Unfortunately this is not available on iPhone (screen is too small!)

NB: If you have a Chinese or Japanese keyboard then the infinity button may not be visible. This is due to a bug in iOS (contact me and I’ll explain more.)

Windows

On Windows hit CTRL+ALT+SPACE when editing text to show the symbol picker. To edit the symbols, choose the Help->Settings menu option.