Symbols

In Corca, symbols are structured elements rather than characters. When you type or insert a symbol, the system creates a mathematical node with defined behavior. This allows expressions to remain stable during editing, alignment, and computation.

Symbols can be entered directly from the keyboard, selected from suggestions, or inserted from the Symbols palette.

Entering symbols

Most symbols are created automatically as you type. For common operators such as +,-,=, or /, the system converts the input into a mathematical symbol immediately. The result behaves like part of the expression rather than plain text: 2+3. The plus sign becomes an operator node inside the expression.

Symbols can also be created by typing their names. For example, typing pi results in π.

Suggestions appear while typing. You select the desired symbol and continue writing.

Using the Symbols palette

The Symbols palette provides a visual way to insert symbols. Selecting a symbol from the palette creates the corresponding mathematical node immediately. No additional confirmation step is required. This method is commonly used when:

• the symbol is not on the keyboard

• the exact name is unknown

• visual selection is faster

Symbols inserted from the palette behave exactly like typed symbols.

Basic operators

Arithmetic operators define mathematical operations.

Operator symbols are interpreted automatically and integrated into the expression structure.

When typing consecutive operations such as:

2+3+1+2

the system maintains a continuous expression rather than creating disconnected elements. This ensures reliable editing and evaluation.

Relation symbols

Relation symbols express logical or mathematical relationships.

Multi-character relations are recognized automatically. The system converts the characters into a single relation symbol.

Groupping symbols

Groupping symbols define structure inside expressions. They determine evaluation order, control layout, and organize mathematical content.

Group symbols are paired automatically. When an opening symbol is inserted, the matching closing symbol is created. You can also apply grouping to an existing expression after it is written using the right panel.

Logical and set symbols

Logical and set notation is supported directly.

These symbols are commonly used in proofs and formal definitions.

Symbol suggestions

Suggestions appear automatically while typing. They help select the correct symbol quickly and maintain consistent notation. Suggestions behave differently depending on context:

• operator input produces operator suggestions

• function input produces function suggestions

• text suggestions are filtered when a symbol is expected

This prevents incorrect conversions and keeps expressions predictable.

Highlighting and editing symbols

When a symbol is selected or focused, it becomes visually highlighted. This indicates the active editing position and improves navigation inside complex expressions. Symbols can be edited directly.

Example:

x+y

Replace operator:

x-y

The structure remains intact.

Symbols in imported content

Symbols imported from LaTeX, Markdown, or other formats are converted into structured mathematical symbols.

Input:

\geq

Result:

≥

Imported symbols behave exactly like native symbols.