When it comes to documents, Microsoft Word and Google Docs are the go-to tools for many. But if you frequently work with mathematical equations, which one offers a smoother experience? I put their equation editing capabilities to the test to help you make the right choice.
Equation Editor Interface
Typing a math equation in Google Docs is as simple as clicking the Equation button in the Insert menu. This action brings up an equation toolbar containing a wide range of mathematical symbols and structures organized into categories. The toolbar's layout makes it easy to locate and select the desired elements for your equation.
On the other hand, Microsoft Word's equation editor can also be accessed through the Equation button in the Insert tab. Upon clicking it, a sidebar appears, presenting various math symbols and structures under these two categories.
While the sidebar provides a comprehensive set of options, it can feel a bit overwhelming, especially for users who are new to equation editing.
Symbol and Structure Selection
Navigating through the available symbols and structures is straightforward in Google Docs. The categorized equation toolbar lets you quickly find what you need by expanding the relevant category. In contrast, Microsoft Word's sidebar requires more clicking and exploring to locate specific elements, which can be time-consuming but well-organized.
Both Google Docs and Microsoft Word offer similar functionalities for selecting symbols and structures. In Google Docs, clicking on a category in the equation toolbar expands it, revealing a grid of related options. Simply click on the desired symbol or structure to insert it into your equation.
Similarly, Microsoft Word's sidebar allows you to click on a category to view more options and then select the one you need.
While both software provide a decent selection of math symbols and structures, Microsoft Word's sidebar feels more organized and offers more symbols and structures. The categories are clearly labeled, and the symbols are displayed in a visually appealing manner.
Keyboard Shortcuts and LaTeX Support
Google Docs offers a handful of keyboard shortcuts for equation editing, such as using a backslash (\) followed by a symbol name to insert it quickly.
Google Docs doesn't natively support LaTeX—a powerful typesetting system widely used in academia. You will need to install an add-on to enable LaTeX support in Google Docs. To do that, go to Extensions > Add-ons > Get add-ons, and then search for Auto-LaTeX Equations.
Once the add-on is installed, you can directly type LaTeX commands and render to create complex equations.
Microsoft Word, on the other hand, provides a more extensive set of keyboard shortcuts for equation editing. These shortcuts cover many symbols and structures, allowing you to insert them without navigating through the sidebar.
For instance, you can type "\gamma" and press the spacebar to insert the Greek letter gamma (γ), or type \sum followed by the spacebar to insert the summation symbol (∑).
Word also lacks native LaTeX support. To use LaTeX in Word, you need to install a separate add-in, as you would do in the case of Google Docs. The add-in can be found in the Microsoft Store.
I personally rely more on keyboard shortcuts and prefer a more extensive set of options, so Microsoft Word is a better choice. On the other hand, if you prioritize a smooth LaTeX experience, Google Docs could be the way to go.
If neither Google Docs nor Microsoft Word suit you, the note-taking app Obsidian also provides a smooth math-writing experience.
Which One Is Better?
The answer, as with most tech comparisons, is not clear-cut. If you prioritize a user-friendly equation editor interface and smooth LaTeX integration, Google Docs might be your better choice. Its intuitive toolbar and straightforward LaTeX support make it easy to write equations, even for users who are not well-versed in advanced mathematical typesetting.
On the other hand, if you heavily rely on keyboard shortcuts and prefer a more extensive set of options, Microsoft Word could be the way to go. Its comprehensive collection of shortcuts can significantly speed up your workflow, and its equation editor sidebar provides a wide range of symbols and structures.