How to Use Math Notes in iPad and iPhone (iPadOS 26 Included)

Since the first iPad launched, Apple users have long complained about the absence of a native Calculator app. Instead, they had to rely on third-party apps or Spotlight Search for even the most basic calculations. Fortunately, with iPadOS 18, Apple finally listened and introduced the long-awaited Calculator app to the iPad.

But in typical Apple fashion, it didn’t stop at just basic calculations. The new Calculator app brings a powerful new feature called Math Notes. It allows you to solve complex algebraic, geometric, and trigonometric problems with just a scribble—literally. With support for Apple Pencil, natural handwriting recognition, and even 3D graph plotting in iOS 26 and iPadOS 26, Math Notes is a game-changer for students, educators, and anyone who deals with math daily.

FaceTime Like a Pro:

Get our exclusive Ultimate FaceTime Guide 📚 — absolutely FREE when you sign up for our newsletter below.

Let’s explore how to use Math Notes on your iPhone and iPad.

What is Math Notes?

Math Notes is an advanced feature inside the Calculator app that lets you handwrite or type math equations directly onto the screen. Just write a problem and add an equals sign—the app instantly calculates the answer. It works seamlessly whether you’re using the iPhone keyboard, your finger, or an Apple Pencil on the iPad.

How to Use Math Notes on iPad and iPhone

To get started with Math Notes:

1. Open the Calculator app on your iPhone or iPad.
2. Tap the Calculator icon in the bottom-left corner of the screen.
   
   
3. Choose the Math Notes option in the pop-up menu that appears.
   
   
4. Tap the New Note button (with the pencil icon) in the top-right corner to open a Math Note.
   
   
5. Depending on your preference, use the Apple Pencil, your finger, or the keyboard to scribble a math problem. Let’s say you write 77 x 84.
6. Add an equals sign after the problem, and Math Notes will return the answer on your screen.
   
   
7. You may change the numerals in the written math problem, and the result will update automatically.
   
   
8. You can even add a square root, and the result will still be updated seamlessly.
   
   
9. Similarly, you can use the Math Notes to create graphs and solve complex algebraic equations, geometric problems, or trigonometric equations.
   
   

How to Create 3D Graphs Using Math Notes in iOS 26 and iPadOS 26

With iOS 26 and iPadOS 26, Apple adds another layer of functionality: interactive 3D graphing.

Here’s how to generate 3D graphs with Math Notes:

1. In a new note, type a math equation involving three variables, such as z = sin(x² + y²). You can also use Apple Pencil on iPad to write the equation.
2. As you type, you will see an Insert 3D Graph pop-up button over the equation.
3. Tap the Insert 3D Graph button, and the resultant graph will appear underneath the equation.
4. You can use the tap and drag gesture to rotate, resize, or move the graph on the canvas.
5. Tap the three-dot button under the graph to copy the 3D graph and paste it into other apps like Notes, Pages, or Keynote to use in your documents or presentations.

This makes it incredibly useful for high school and college students, engineers, or professionals working with multivariable data sets.

How to Use Math Notes in the Apple Notes App

Math Notes aren’t limited to the Calculator app. Apple automatically syncs them with the Notes app under a dedicated Math Notes folder.

To Use Existing Math Notes:

1. Open the Notes app and tap on the sidebar icon in the top-left corner.
   
   
2. Select Math Notes.
3. Choose the existing Math Note you want to work on.
   
   
4. Once open, you can work in the Math Note, similar to how you do in the Calculator app.

To Create a New Math Note in Notes:

1. In the Notes app, tap the New Note icon in the top-right corner to create a new note.
   
   
2. Now, tap Aa to select the keyboard as your input method. Then, enter a simple or complex mathematical equation and follow it up with an equals sign to get the result.
   
   
3. If you want to scribble the math problem using your finger or Apple Pencil, tap the pencil icon in the toolbar and start scribbling.
   
   

How to View Saved Math Notes on iPad and iPhone

All the Math Notes you create or work on are saved automatically, and you can view them in both the Calculator and Notes app.

In Calculator App:

1. Tap the Calculator icon in the bottom-left corner.
2. Choose Math Notes to see all your saved entries.

In Notes App:

1. Tap the sidebar icon.
2. Select Math Notes to browse all stored equations and graphs.

How to Delete Math Notes

Deleting Math Notes in the Calculator and Notes app is easy and similar to deleting a regular note in the Notes app.

1. Tap and hold the Math Note you want to delete.
2. Tap on Delete in the pop-up menu that appears.
   
   

That’s it—simple and clean.

Solving Math Problems Has Never Been Easier

The Calculator app’s arrival on the iPad was a long time coming. But with the Math Notes feature, Apple has turned a basic app into an incredibly powerful tool. From doing your cousin’s homework to plotting complex 3D graphs, it’s fast, intuitive, and surprisingly fun.

I’ve personally used it to help with algebra homework, and the results have always been accurate and instant. The combination of handwriting input, instant results, and graphing tools truly makes the Calculator app a must-have.

Have you tried Math Notes on your iPhone or iPad yet? Whether you’re a student, teacher, or someone who just loves playing with numbers, this feature is worth exploring. Share your thoughts with us in the comments!

Also Read:

• How to use the Calculator app on iPhone like a pro
• How to view your iPhone calculator history
• How to Use Local Capture on iPad
• How to Use Notes to Apple Watch