If a subexpression is selected in the expression editor, then any menu command will be applied to that subexpression.
For example, suppose that you enter the expression
(x+1)*(x+2)*(x-1)
in the expression editor. Note that you can use the abilities of the editor to make this easier. First, enter x+1. Select this with the up arrow, then type * followed by x+2. Select the x+2 with the up arrow and then type * followed by x-1. Using the up arrow again will select the x-1. Select the entire expression with the up arrow, and then select eval from the M menu. This will put all factors at the same level. Suppose you want the factors (x+1)*(x+2) to be expanded. You could select (x+1)*(x+2) with the mouse and do one of the following:
There are also keystroke commands that you can use to operate on subexpressions that you’ve selected. There are the usual Ctrl+Z and Ctrl+Y for undoing and redoing. Some of the others are given in the following table.
Key | Action on selection |
Ctrl+D | differentiate |
Ctrl+F | factor |
Ctrl+L | limit |
Ctrl+N | normalize |
Ctrl+P | partial fraction |
Ctrl+R | integrate |
Ctrl+S | simplify |
Ctrl+T | copy LATEX version to clipboard |