Contextual tab

MathType includes contextual editing tools that help users modify the layout and appearance of existing mathematical expressions. These tools make relevant editing options available while working with structures such as matrices, fences, multiline expressions, and elementary math layouts.

What it is

The Contextual tab is a dynamic section of the MathType toolbar. It acts as an access point for commands associated with the mathematical structure or symbol currently being edited.

Unlike the standard toolbar tabs, whose symbols and templates remain fixed, the contents of the Contextual tab change according to the cursor position or current selection. For example, placing the cursor inside a matrix displays matrix-related controls, while selecting a fence or an individual symbol displays the controls available for that element.

These commands let users modify the selected element directly, often without deleting or recreating the surrounding mathematical structure.

Why it matters

Mathematical structures often have editing options that are useful only in a particular context. For example, column alignment applies to matrices, while delimiter controls apply to fenced expressions.

By displaying these commands only when they are relevant, the Contextual tab reduces the number of controls permanently visible in the toolbar. This keeps the editor easier to navigate while making advanced editing options available when they are needed.

It also allows users to modify an existing structure without deleting and recreating it.

How it works

Select a mathematical context

The current cursor position or selection determines which mathematical element MathType considers active. The active context may be a complete structure, such as a matrix, or an individual element, such as a delimiter or symbol.

Identify the available controls

MathType identifies the type of the active element and determines which editing commands apply to it. Controls that do not apply to the current structure are not displayed.

Update the Contextual tab

The Contextual tab displays the relevant controls. When the cursor moves to another part of the expression, or a different element is selected, the tab updates automatically.

Key rules and behaviours

• The Contextual tab is always available, but its contents change according to the current cursor position or selection.
• The cursor must be inside a supported mathematical structure, or the relevant symbol must be selected, for its controls to appear.
• Moving the cursor to a different structure updates the available commands automatically.
• The available controls may depend on the MathType product, integration, toolbar configuration, or enabled editor features.
• If an expected command is not displayed, check the cursor position and current selection first.

Depending on the active structure, the Contextual tab may provide the following types of tools:

Examples

Matrix context

When the cursor is placed inside a matrix, the Contextual tab can display controls for adding or removing rows and columns, changing column alignment, and adjusting the space between columns.

Fence context

When the cursor is placed inside a fenced expression, the Contextual tab can display controls for changing the opening and closing delimiters independently. This can be used to change interval notation or create an expression with different delimiters on each side.

Symbol positioning context

When an individual symbol is selected, the Contextual tab can display nudging controls for making small horizontal or vertical adjustments. These controls are useful when the default position of a symbol does not provide the required visual result within a complex expression.

For instructions and additional examples, see Contextual tab examples.

Common misunderstandings

The Contextual tab is missing

The tab remains available, but it may contain few or no structure-specific controls when the cursor is not inside a supported mathematical element.

The Contextual tab always shows the same controls

Its contents are dynamic. The controls displayed for a matrix differ from those displayed for a fence, elementary math layout, multiline expression, or individual symbol.

Every control is available in every integration

Some controls depend on the editor configuration or the MathType integration being used. As a result, a particular command may not be available in every environment.

Related concepts

• Contextual tab examples.
• Toolbar and keyboard shortcuts.
• Using MathType Web.