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How to handle errors in Math Notes on your iPhone or iPad

Use Math Notes in the Calculator or Notes app to solve mathematical expressions, create and use variables, or graph equations. If there's a red or blue dotted line in your equation, you can tap the dotted line to understand the error and correct it.

If you see a dotted red line

A red dotted line indicates that there's unrecognized math or an unsolvable expression, such as a syntax error or division by zero.

  1. Tap the dotted red line to see details about the error.

    iPad showing "9/0" in Math Notes. Red dotted line around equals sign indicates a divide by zero error with a dismiss option.

  2. To correct the error, go back to the equation and change it.

If you see a dotted blue line

A blue dotted line indicates that there is an ambiguous character in the equation. The result provided uses the most likely option for the ambiguous character, but you can change it if you meant something else.

  1. Tap the dotted blue line.

    iPad showing "8 + ambiguous character" in Math Notes. Character is underlined with blue dots, with options to clarify as "S" or "5".

  2. Tap the character you want to use to clarify what you wrote.

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