1. Ma 375 - Communicating Mathematics
Carl Eberhart and Paul Eakin
Class 10
Root files II -- Adventures with Algebra

2. Most math teachers, at one time or
another, have thought about writing
a math book. We can do that now.
Today, we start a book on Algebra.
We will build the root file, and
begin to outline the book there.
Then we will start writing some
of the chapters. We learn more of
how to typeset mathematics.

3. A rootfile for a little algebra book. \documentclass{book}
\title{a little algebra book}
\author{wee willie wonder}
\begin{document}
\frontmatter
\maketitle
\tableofcontents
\mainmatter
\include{thought1}
\include{thought2}
\backmatter
\include{index}
\end{document
A rootfile for
a little algebra book.
Note the new words:
\title, \author
\tableofcontents
\frontmatter
\mainmatter
\backmatter

4. Labeling and referencing equations
\begin{equation}\label{eq1}
x+y=3
\end{equation} ….
Look at equation \ref{eq1} for a moment.

5. Typesetting Problem: Illustrate Pascal’s triangle\[
\begin{array}{ccc}
(x+y)^0 & = & 1\\
x+y & = & x+y\\
\left (x+y\right )^{2} & = & {x}^{2}+2\,xy+{y}^{2}\\
\end{array} \]

6. Typesetting Problem: Make a macro for a binomial symbol
A solution:
\newcommand{\binom}[2]{
\left(
\begin{array}{c} #1 \\ #2
\end{array}\right)}

7. A good way to learn LaTeX
Have something you want to typeset (it can be in your head.)
Approach the task as a series of typesetting problems.
Have a reference handy. Be willing to ask someone before you give up.