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Absolute Value in LaTeX
Learn how to typeset absolute value correctly in LaTeX, when to use scalable delimiters, how to distinguish absolute value from norms, and how to write piecewise definitions involving absolute values.
Basic Notation
Use vertical bars around the expression:
Inline absolute value
Fixed-size bars are fine for short inline expressions.
Scalable Delimiters with \\left and \\right
Use scalable bars for tall content:
Pair \left| with \right| to avoid mismatched sizes.
Have an equation screenshot with absolute values? Convert images to LaTeX instantly and paste the code into your document.
Absolute Value vs Norm
Absolute value applies to scalars, while norms use double bars for vectors and functions.
- Scalar absolute value:
|z| - Vector norm:
\| \mathbf{v} \| - Function norm:
\| f \|_{L^2}
Piecewise Definitions
Equivalent definition for |x| using cases:
This is mathematically equivalent to |x| and useful when you need explicit conditions.
Useful Inequalities
Absolute Value in LaTeX
Learn how to typeset absolute value correctly in LaTeX, when to use scalable delimiters, how to distinguish absolute value from norms, and how to write piecewise definitions involving absolute values.
Basic Notation
Use vertical bars around the expression:
Inline absolute value
Fixed-size bars are fine for short inline expressions.
Scalable Delimiters with \\left and \\right
Use scalable bars for tall content:
Pair \left| with \right| to avoid mismatched sizes.
Have an equation screenshot with absolute values? Convert images to LaTeX instantly and paste the code into your document.
Absolute Value vs Norm
Absolute value applies to scalars, while norms use double bars for vectors and functions.
- Scalar absolute value:
|z| - Vector norm:
\| \mathbf{v} \| - Function norm:
\| f \|_{L^2}
Piecewise Definitions
Equivalent definition for |x| using cases:
This is mathematically equivalent to |x| and useful when you need explicit conditions.
Useful Inequalities
Getting Started
Text Formatting
Mathematical Expressions
Document Structure