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In WordPress 6.9 or later, add a Math block to enter a standalone equation, or use the Math option in a rich-text field for a short inline formula. Both accept LaTeX or valid MathML. If your site does not have the core Math block, the right alternative depends on whether you use Jetpack, WordPress.com, or a separate equation plugin.
Use the built-in Math block for a standalone equation
The core Math block requires WordPress 6.9 or later, according to WordPress’s Math block documentation, last updated July 23, 2026. In the block editor:
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- Open the post or page and place the cursor where the equation should go.
- Open the Block Inserter with the + button, search for Math, and select the Math block. Or type
/mathin the editor and press Enter. - Enter the formula in LaTeX or valid MathML. For example, LaTeX source can be
frac{a}{b},E=mc^2, orint_0^infty e^{-x} dx. - Exit the block to see the rendered equation in the editor.
The source you type is the mathematical markup; the editor preview displays the formatted notation. Use a standalone block for a large or multi-line equation.
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Put a short formula inline with text
For a compact expression within a sentence, use the Math option in a supported rich-text field, such as a Paragraph, Heading, List item, or Table cell. Select the relevant text, open the block toolbar’s More menu, and choose Math. Enter LaTeX or MathML in the field that appears. The same kinds of expressions work inline, including frac{a}{b} and E=mc^2. Inline display is best for short formulas that belong in the flow of a sentence; keep longer or multi-line work in a standalone block.
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Choose a format, then make the equation understandable
LaTeX is often the quickest format to type, and the block also accepts MathML. Use standard, simple syntax where possible: WordPress does not promise support for every LaTeX package or custom macro, so a formula that depends on specialized commands may not render as expected.
WordPress’s documentation recommends MathML where possible for improved accessibility. Whichever format you choose, include explanatory prose near the equation so readers—including people using assistive technology—can understand what it represents. Mathematical markup alone does not explain a formula’s meaning.
The Math block’s settings include color, typography, dimensions, borders, and advanced options. If you reuse a formula, save it as a Pattern so you can insert it in other posts or pages. Patterns can also help keep recurring labels consistent.
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- No automatic equation numbering: WordPress’s core Math block does not number equations. Add a label in nearby text if readers need to refer to an equation, or use a Pattern to keep repeated numbering consistent.
- Not every LaTeX command is guaranteed: The documentation does not promise compatibility with all packages or custom macros. Prefer common syntax and check the rendered preview.
If the Math block is not available
First identify your environment: the core instructions above apply to WordPress 6.9 or later. Jetpack and WordPress.com have separate documented math paths; they are not interchangeable with installing a plugin on a self-hosted WordPress.org site.
| Option | When it applies | What to know |
|---|---|---|
| Core Math block | WordPress 6.9 or later | Enter LaTeX or MathML directly in a standalone block or supported inline field. No built-in equation numbering. |
| Jetpack math support | Sites using Jetpack that need its documented math route | See Jetpack’s “Beautiful Math with the Math block” support article. Not every WordPress site needs Jetpack. |
| WordPress.com LaTeX support | Sites hosted on WordPress.com | Follow WordPress.com’s LaTeX support instructions. This is a hosted-service path, not a guide to installing Jetpack on a self-hosted site. |
| Glyphwell plugin | Authors who want a visual equation editor as a separate plugin option | The WordPress.org directory listing describes an Equation block, inline equations, editable LaTeX, bundled KaTeX rendering, and sanitized MathML stored alongside the source. It also says assets are local and loaded only on pages with equations. The listing identifies no numbering, labels, cross-references, or custom macros. As of September 30, 2026, it showed version 1.0.0, fewer than 10 active installations, and no reviews, so treat it as emerging rather than established. These are listing claims, not independent performance or security testing. |
If you still use the Classic Editor, the older WordPress code documentation notes that its visual editor treats code as ordinary text and encodes angle brackets. That is legacy context, not current Math block guidance; frequent equation authors may find a math-specific plugin or PHP tool more convenient.
Troubleshoot an equation that does not render
Work through these checks in order, beginning with the editor and input itself before investigating plugin conflicts:
Quick Recap
- Confirm the WordPress version and available route. The core Math block requires WordPress 6.9 or later. If it is unavailable, confirm whether you are using Jetpack, WordPress.com, or another math tool and follow that product’s instructions.
- Check the markup. Look for typos and unmatched opening or closing braces in LaTeX. For MathML, verify that tags are valid and properly nested.
- Match the input format to the content. If you entered LaTeX, make sure the field is set for LaTeX; if you entered MathML, select MathML.
- Paste as plain text. If characters are escaped, changed, or removed, paste the formula as plain text to avoid hidden formatting carried over from another editor.
- Inspect MathML characters and plugin behavior. MathML angle brackets and entity references must be valid HTML. If syntax checks do not resolve missing or altered content, another plugin may be stripping it.
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