Find AI Tools
Photomath screenshot

What is Photomath?

Photomath is a mobile app that lets you photograph maths problems and receive step-by-step solutions. Point your phone's camera at a handwritten or printed equation, and the app recognises the problem and shows you how to solve it. It covers many maths topics, from basic arithmetic through to calculus and algebra. The app works on a freemium model; the free version provides solutions, whilst a paid subscription enables additional features like detailed explanations and multiple solving methods. It's designed primarily for students seeking help with homework, though parents and tutors may also find it useful for checking work or understanding where mistakes occur.

Key Features

Camera-based problem recognition

photograph maths problems in any format for instant identification

Step-by-step solutions

view detailed workings for how each problem is solved

Multiple solving methods

paid tier shows alternative approaches to the same problem

Handwriting and print support

recognises both written equations and printed textbook problems

Topic coverage

handles arithmetic, algebra, geometry, trigonometry, calculus, and statistics

Progress tracking

subscription tier includes records of problems you've solved

Pros & Cons

Advantages

  • Saves time on maths homework by instantly providing solutions rather than requiring manual lookup
  • Helps students understand the solving process rather than just getting an answer
  • Works with both handwritten and printed problems, making it flexible for different scenarios
  • Free tier is genuinely useful, so you can test it without paying first

Limitations

  • Camera recognition occasionally fails on complex or poorly lit equations, requiring manual input
  • The free tier limits explanations, so understanding deeper concepts may require upgrading
  • Some users may be tempted to use it to avoid engaging with the maths itself, rather than as a learning tool

Use Cases

Students checking their homework answers and understanding where they went wrong

Parents helping children with maths homework when they're uncertain about the method

Tutors quickly verifying solutions during tutoring sessions

Self-study learners working through textbooks and needing instant feedback on practice problems