Writing proofs — frequently asked questions
Why can't I find the theorem I'm looking for?
It may be a theorem that is not on the list of theorems approved by the Ministry of Education, or the wording in the system may differ from the one you know. Try changing the search words, or look in the full list of theorems (it opens when you click Select reason..., below the search field). You can ask us to add theorems.
How do I make an auxiliary construction, and how do I write the construction in the proof?
Beside the diagram there is a pencil icon (Constructions) for auxiliary constructions. The constructions appear in the proof automatically.
What should I do if the system doesn't understand my equation?
Check that the equation has no mistakes; if you can't find one, we recommend deleting it and writing it again.
What to check:
- The equation contains an equals sign — not an inequality sign, a similarity sign and so on.
- Angles are written with 3 letters — one letter is enough only when there is a single angle at that vertex; otherwise the system asks for the full angle name.
- Use standard symbols — you'll find the degree sign and the arithmetic signs on the equation editor's keyboard, or on your computer keyboard. We don't recommend copying from other equation editors.
Do I have to write the givens again in the proof?
No. The system lets you write the givens again, but does not require it.
How do I refer to earlier statements in the proof?
When a statement in the proof is based on earlier statements, note this in the By statements column in Table view (the button beside the Proof heading). You can type the numbers of the statements or tick the boxes beside the matching rows.
How do I mark Q.E.D.?
Adding the target (you can write it yourself or add it to the proof with the + beside it) automatically adds the Q.E.D. label to the matching row as well. The Submit button works only once the proof includes what has to be proved.