About
Equatio is a digital math accessibility tool by Texthelp that enables students, teachers, and STEM professionals to create mathematical equations, formulas, and scientific notation digitally. Users can input math by speaking, drawing by hand, typing, or using LaTeX — removing the barrier of manual notation for learners with dyslexia, dyscalculia, or other learning differences. It integrates directly into Google Workspace (Docs, Slides, Forms, Sheets) and Microsoft Word, making it practical for everyday academic workflows. Core features include speech-to-math dictation, handwriting recognition on touchscreens, equation prediction/autocomplete, a screenshot reader that converts printed math to editable digital format, and a built-in Desmos graphing calculator. It also supports chemistry formula input and text-to-speech playback of equations so students can hear math read aloud. Equatio is primarily delivered as a Google Chrome Extension and targets K–12 and higher education institutions. It offers a free tier with limited features and a paid premium version available via individual or site licensing, with dedicated education pricing for schools and districts.
Key Features
- Speech-to-Math Input: Users can dictate mathematical expressions verbally, and Equatio converts spoken words into properly formatted digital equations in real time.
- Handwriting Recognition: On touchscreen devices, users can write math by hand and have it automatically digitized into formatted equations without any manual transcription.
- Screenshot Math Reader: A screenshot tool captures printed or digital math problems and converts them into editable, accessible digital format for further manipulation or submission.
- Google Workspace & Word Integration: Equatio works natively inside Google Docs, Slides, Forms, and Sheets as well as Microsoft Word, allowing math creation directly within existing workflows.
- Text-to-Speech for Equations: Math expressions can be read aloud, enabling students to hear equations — a critical accessibility feature for learners with visual or reading difficulties.
Pros
- Strong Accessibility Focus: Multiple input modes (voice, handwriting, typing, screenshot) make math creation accessible for students with dyslexia, dyscalculia, or motor difficulties.
- Seamless Google Workspace Integration: As a Chrome Extension, Equatio plugs directly into Google Docs, Forms, and Slides — tools already widely used in K–12 and higher education settings.
- No Coding or LaTeX Knowledge Required: Students and teachers can produce complex math notation without knowing LaTeX or any programming, though a LaTeX editor is also available for advanced users.
- Free Tier Available: A functional free version lowers the barrier to entry for individual students or educators who want to try the tool before committing to a paid license.
Cons
- Limited Platform Support: Equatio is primarily a Chrome Extension and Google Workspace tool; full functionality outside of Chrome or on non-Windows Microsoft Word setups can be restricted.
- Opaque Pricing: Premium and institutional pricing is not publicly listed on the website, requiring direct contact with Texthelp for quotes — which can slow procurement for schools.
- Free Version Is Feature-Limited: The free tier restricts access to several key tools, including handwriting recognition and the screenshot reader, pushing most meaningful use cases toward the paid plan.
