Create and insert math expressions

Last updated on Jun 2, 2026

Learn how to use MathML to add and format mathematical equations in your Adobe InDesign documents.

InDesign supports MathML, an XML-based markup language, for creating mathematical notation using the Math Expressions panel. You can create or import equations and place them as scalable SVG files that maintain quality and can be styled. Math expressions behave like graphic objects and can be anchored, resized, and formatted within your layout.

Create a math expression

Select Window > Math Expressions.

Select Create Expression.

When the cursor changes to the Insert Expression, place it on the canvas where you want the equation.

Select from the Expressions and Symbols presets in the panel to build your equation.

Use the arrow keys to navigate through the expression and position your cursor.

Adjust Font Size, Fill color (including document colors), and Font Style in the panel. The MathML code updates automatically as you build the expression and appears in the Math Expressions panel.

Insert a math expression

Select Object > Insert MathML.

Paste or type your MathML code in the MathML Input section.

Select the Preview Expression icon to verify the equation renders correctly in the Expression Preview section.

The Insert MathML dialog box with the MathML code in MathML Input and (a+b)^2 = a^2 +2ab+b^2 in Expression Preview.
Add a MathML code to generate and add a math expression.

Select Place to add the expression to your document.

Resize the expression by dragging its corner handles and anchor it to text like any other inline graphic.

Adjust Font Size, Fill color (including document colors), and Font Style in the Math Expressions panel (Window > Math Expressions).

Note

InDesign exports math expressions to multiple formats, including PDF (with accessibility), EPUB (Reflowable or Fixed Layout), HTML, IDML, PNG, JPEG, XML, and Publish Online. For EPUB (Reflowable) exports, select Object > SVG Options > Export Math Objects as and choose either SVG or MathML based on your reader requirements.