Assessment Settings

• Name: The name of the assessment
• Summary: A description of the summary (shows on course page)
• Intro/Instructions: Displays at the top of the test (see below for details on making question-specific instructions)
• Available after: The first date for the item to be available to students
• Available until: The last date for the item to be available to students. Students must complete the assessment by this date - they will be kicked out if they are in the middle of an assessment when this time is reached.
• Available for review: If the checkbox is clicked, the assessment will convert to review mode after the due date until this date. Review mode defaults to Skip Around display, unlimited attempts, answers shown always. Scores are not saved in Review mode.
• Count: Whether the assessment score should be counted in the gradebook, not counted in the grade total, or counted as extra credit.
• Copy Options From: If you have other assessments in your course already, you can select to copy the assessment settings from another assessment.
• Password: If specified, requires student to enter this password to access the assessment. Leave blank to require no password.
• Time Limit: The time limit, in minutes, for the test (0 for none). If the student exceeds the time limit, their test will be recorded, and you can decide whether or not to accept it in the gradebook detail. Partial minutes are possible using decimal values. If you check the "Kick student out at timelimit" box, then the assessment will automatically finalize at the timelimit, and submission attempts after the timelimit will be rejected.
• Display method:
  • Full test at once: All questions are displayed on one page
  • One question at a time: One question is shown at a time. Students must complete the questions in the order presented
  • Full test, submit one at time: Full test is displayed, but student submits answer to one question at a time. Student can skip between questions.
  • Skip around: Students are provided with a navigation bar and can jump between questions and complete them in any order
  • Embedded: Similar to "Full test, submit one at time", but all questions are always active, and any one can be submitted at any time. Questions can be embedded into the Intro/Instructions using [QUESTION #] tags.
• Default points per problem: How many points each problem should be worth by default. This can be changed for individual problems.
• Default attempts per problem: How many attempts a student should have at each problem by default. This can be changed for individual problems. Enter 0 for unlimited attempts
• Reattempts different versions: Reattempting a problem will regenerate the question with new numbers. By default, reattempts of problems receive the same version of the problem. This option does not make sense to use with Homework mode.
• Default penalty per missed attempt: What percentage of points possible a student should lose for an incorrect attempt. This can be changed for individual problems. You can select a penalty for each missed attempt, to start after a certain number of missed attempts, or specify a penalty for the last possible attempt only.
• Feedback method: What detail the students should see
  • No scores shown: No scores, including the total, are shown to the student. If reattempts are allowed, the student is forced to retake all questions (even ones they got right the first time). With this mode, access to grade detail in the gradebook controlled by the Show Answers setting.
  • Final score: Only final (total) score is shown at the end. If reattempts are allowed, the student is forced to retake all questions (even ones they got right the first time). With this mode, access to grade detail in the gradebook controlled by the Show Answers setting.
  • Show score on each at end: At the end of the test, the student is shown their score on each question. If reattempts are allowed, they are then allowed to go back and reattempt problems.
  • Show as submitted: As each question is submitted, the score is shown, and students are offered a chance to reattempt the problem (if allowed). This method does not apply to the "Full test at once" display method.
  • Practice Test: Same as above, and the test can be regenerated (re-randomized) whenever the student wants. Students are given an opportunity to try similar problems to the one presented after completing each question (when not in Full test at once mode). Scores are cleared each time the test is regenerated, and scores are not shown by default in the gradebook. Answers can be shown after some number of attempts.
  • Homework: Like "Show as submitted", but students are given an opportunity to attempt a similar question if they miss a question. Doing so resets attempts for that question (reseting attempt penalty as well). Also, show answers (see below) can be set to show answers during the homework after a number of attempts. This is best used in conjunction with the attempt penalty.
• Show Answers: When (if ever) students should be able to see answers.
  • Practice Tests and Homework: For practice tests and homework, you can set this to never, after 0,1,3,4,or 5 attempts are made, or after last attempt. There is also an after last attempt option that will allow students to jump directly to the answer.
  • Other Tests: For other tests, you can set this to never, after the assessment due date, after the last last attempt (in Skip Around and Full test submitted one at time modes only), or immediately. Answers will be available in the gradebook review of a test. Note: Do not use the "Immediately" option if you are allowing multiple attempts per problem. Doing so would allow a student to complete the test, view the answers, then reenter the test (since more attempts are allowed) and put in the correct answers. Also be aware that if an assessment is set to allow review mode, that answers will be available to students in review mode.
• Show hints when available: Whether or not to show hints if the question has them defined
• Allow use of LatePasses: If you have granted LatePasses to students, this will allow use of them on this assessment
• Make hard to print: Makes the assessment harder to print, for in-class tests
• Shuffle item order: Randomizes the order in which questions are presented
• Gradebook Category: If you have created gradebook categories, you can assign the assessment to one of those categories.
• Count: Whether to count the assessment in the gradebook
• Allow tutors to edit: Whether tutors should be able to change students' scores on this assessment
• Minimum Score for Credit: A minimum score which must be acheived to receive credit for the assessment. Set to 0 to accept all scores. If set and score is not met, gradebook will display "NC" (No Credit).
• Show based on another assessment: Use this to hide this assessment until a specific score is acheived on another assessment. Provide a point value and select an assessment to use this feature. Set the assessment to "Don't Use" to not use this feature
• All questions same random seed: Usually not needed. This is only need for a set of questions designed to work together using the same random values
• All students receive same version of questions: All students receive the same first version of questions. If in practice test or homework mode, when students request a similar problem, different students will receive different versions of the questions.
• Penalty for questions done while in exception/LatePass: A percent penalty to take on all questions submitted after the original assignment due date while under a due date exception.
• Is group assessment?: Allows students to specify group members for the assignment. All group members will receive the same score for the assignment
• Show question categories?: If you plan to categorize questions and would like the categories displayed while the student is taking the test, you can select that option here
• LTI access secret: An access code to place this assessment in a BasicLTI-compliant consumer. More info

Qustion-specific instructions (deprecated)

Note: The following approach is deprecated, and no longer recommended. Using the [+Text] button on the Add/Remove Questions page instead to insert text between questions.

In the Intro/Instructions box, you can make question-specific instructions by putting a tag of the form [Q #] or [Q #-#] before the text specific to that question or range of questions. Here is an example:

Adding Questions to an Assessment

You can add existing questions to an assessment by clicking the "Select Library" button to choose libraries to search, then the "Search" button to list potential questions. Leave the "Search" entry blank to list all questions in the libraries selected. The checkboxes can be used to search in all libraries (not just the selected ones), list only questions you own, or exclude questions you've already added to your assessment.

• Use the checkboxes to select questions, then click the "Add (using defaults)" button to add the questions. Adding this way will use the assessment default settings for points, attempts allowed, and penalty per attempt. You can change these later by clicking the "Change Settings" link.
• Use the checkboxes to select questions, then click the "Add" button to add the questions. Adding this way will allow you to override the default settings for points, attempts allowed, and penalty per attempt if you wish, and add a question multiple times.
• Choose "Add" from the Action dropdown. This will allow you to change the default question settings
• Choose "Use as template for New Question" from the Action dropdown. This will create a new question based upon the existing question. This allows you to avoid rewriting a question from scratch if a similar question exists
• Click "Preview" to preview the question

Alternatively, you can click the "Select from Assessments" button to choose questions from existing assessments. In this mode, select the assessments you wish to pull questions from and click "Use these assessments". Then select the questions you wish to use.

• Reorder Questions: Using the number selectors next to each question will allow you to rearrange the order of the questions. This is only useful if you are not shuffling the question order
• Group Questions: Use the checkboxes to select questions, then press the "Group" button to group questions. Then you can specify how many questions from the group you want the system to randomly assign to students, and whether to make that selection with or without replacement.
• Change Settings: Override the default settings for points, attempts allowed, and penalty per attempt, if desired. When done for one question using the "Change Settings" option in the Action dropdown there are more settings you can edit than when using the checkboxes and the "Change Settings" button.
• Edit Code: In the Action Dropdown. Change the question code or wording, if it is your question
• View Code: In the Action Dropdown. View the question code, if it is not your question
• Edit Personal Copy: In the Action Dropdown, if it is not your question. Creates a copy of the question, and will trade out the original question for your personal copy.
• Template: In the Action Dropdown. Create a new question based on this one. The original will not be removed from the assessment.
• Remove from assessment: From the Action dropdown, or use the checkboxes and press the "Remove" button. Removes the question(s) from the assessment. This does not delete the question itself.

After the Assessment has been Taken

If students have taken the assessment, you will not be allowed to make as many changes to the assessment, as it will mess up existing student attempts. If you need to change the assessment a lot, you can clear all student attempts. Otherwise you can change individual question settings (be careful!) or edit the question if it's yours. If there is a problem with the question, you modify it, and want to give students another chance on that question, you can clear all attempts on a single question by clicking the "Clear Attempts" link here

Adding New Questions

Categorizing Questions

After adding questions to an assessment, click the "Categorize Questions" button to categorize the questions in the assessment. Categorization allows you and students to see a score breakdown by question category.

In the question categorization page, you will see each question listed, followed by a category pull-down. By default, the list contains the names of all libraries containing the question. If you'd like to define a category not in the lists, type in the new category name in the box provided and click the "Add Category" button. The new category name will now appear in the pull-down lists next to each question, and can be selected to assign the question to that category. When you are done, click the "Record" button.

Making Print Copies

After adding questions to an assessment, click the "Create Print Version" to layout your assessment for printing.

On the first page, you will be asked what you would like to include in the test header. You will also be asked to enter your print margins setup. These can be found by choosing "Page Setup" from the "File" menu in your browser. In the Page Setup you may also wish to remove the default header and footer materials included in printouts by your browser.

On the next page, you will see alternating blue and green rectangles indicating the size of pages. Use the resizing buttons next to each question to increase or decrease the space after each question until the questions fall nicely onto the pages. You can use Print Preview in your browser to verify that the print layout looks correct. After you have completed the print layout, you will be given the chance to specify additional print options. Longer questions, such as those with graphs, may appear cut off in the print layout page. Be sure to resize those questions to show the entire question.

On the next page, select how many versions of the test you would like to generate, and whether you'd like to generate answer keys. After hitting continue, you print version of the test will be displayed. Choose Print in your browser to print your tests.

Blackboard Integration - older Common Cartridge Instructions

Go to Course Items → Export, select the items you want to export, select your LMS, and Download the Export Cartridge

To import the cartridge in BlackBoard:

• Go to Packages and Utilities, then Import Package
• Click Import Package
• Select the export file from your computer, click Select All to select all course materials, then click Submit.
• If you have an LTI 1.3 connection or global LTI 1.1 college-wide key and secret, skip ahead. If you need to set up a course-level configuration, follow these steps.
  • To to Packages and Utilities, then Manage LTI Links
  • If the links are listed as Working, then you have an existing configuration, and do not need to continue.
  • For one of the links with status listed as Broken, use the drop-down menu that shows when hovering over the link name and select Edit Credentials.
  • For the Tool Provider Key, enter: LTIkey_####_1, where #### is your Course ID
  • For the Tool Provider Secret enter the secret you set up in your Course Settings
  • Check the box "Apply these credentials to all links"
  • Click Submit
• To enable grade return, Blackboard requires some additional steps:
  • Return to the main course page in Blackboard.
  • For each assessment link that was imported, use the drop-down menu and select Edit
  • Set the Enable Evaluation option to Yes, specify the points possible (it does not need to match the points possible in XYZ Homework), and set a Due Date if desired.

Next you will need to establish the connection between your XYZ Homework course and BlackBoard course

• In BlackBoard, click one of the assessment links in your course.
• If this is your first time using this key and secret, XYZ Homework will ask you, the teacher, to sign into your XYZ Homework account. This is necessary to establish a connection between your LMS account and your XYZ Homework account. You will not need to do this step again, and students will not be asked to sign in and will not need a XYZ Homework account.
• Follow the prompts to associate the LMS course with your existing XYZ Homework course or create a copy.
• Once complete, all the LTI links in your LMS should work.
• Be aware:
  • Links, files, forums, and and text items were imported into your LMS. Changing them in XYZ Homework will not change them in your LMS
  • If you change assessment settings or the questions in an assessment in XYZ Homework, those changes will show up when the assessment is launched from the LMS
  • If you change due dates in XYZ Homework, they will be enforced by XYZ Homework, but the due dates in the LMS will not automatically be updated.
  • Any new items added in XYZ Homework, including new assessments, will not automatically show up in the LMS; you would need to repeat the export/import process.
  • If configured, grades will be sent from XYZ Homework to the LMS immediately every time the student completes a question, but the LMS may delay updating the grade.

Note: When configuring a course-level configuration, the use of a key in the form LTIkey_###_1 is recommended. With this type of key, students will not have or need a username for XYZ Homework, and they must access assignments via the LMS. This is usually desired when doing integration, and is necessary to ensure grades are passed from XYZ Homework back to the LMS. If, however, you are not interested in grade return, and simply want to provide single-signon from your LMS into XYZ Homework while allowing direct login to XYZ Homework as well, then you can use a key of the form LTIkey_###_0 instead. This will require students to have or create an account on XYZ Homework, which they'll have to log into once to establish the connection.

Blackboard Integration - Using Import

Go to Course Items → Export, select the items you want to export, select your LMS, and Download the Export Cartridge

To import the cartridge in BlackBoard:

• Go to Packages and Utilities, then Import Package
• Click Import Package
• Select the export file from your computer, click Select All to select all course materials, then click Submit.
• If you have an LTI 1.3 connection or global LTI 1.1 college-wide key and secret, skip ahead. If you need to set up a course-level configuration, follow these steps.
  • To to Packages and Utilities, then Manage LTI Links
  • If the links are listed as Working, then you have an existing configuration, and do not need to continue.
  • For one of the links with status listed as Broken, use the drop-down menu that shows when hovering over the link name and select Edit Credentials.
  • For the Tool Provider Key, enterthe Key listed in the Export screen in your XYZ Homework course.
  • For the Tool Provider Secret enter the secret you set up in your Course Settings
  • Check the box "Apply these credentials to all links"
  • Click Submit
• If importing a Common Cartridge, to enable grade return Blackboard requires some additional steps:
  • Return to the main course page in Blackboard.
  • For each assessment link that was imported, use the drop-down menu and select Edit
  • Set the Enable Evaluation option to Yes, specify the points possible (it does not need to match the points possible in XYZ Homework), and set a Due Date if desired.

Next you will need to establish the connection between your XYZ Homework course and BlackBoard course

• In BlackBoard, click one of the assessment links in your course.
• If this is your first time using this key and secret, XYZ Homework will ask you, the teacher, to sign into your XYZ Homework account. This is necessary to establish a connection between your LMS account and your XYZ Homework account. You will not need to do this step again.
• Follow the prompts to associate the LMS course with your existing XYZ Homework course or create a copy.
• Once complete, all the LTI links in your LMS should work.
• Be aware:
  • Links, files, forums, and and text items were imported into your LMS. Changing them in XYZ Homework will not change them in your LMS
  • If you change assessment settings or the questions in an assessment in XYZ Homework, those changes will show up when the assessment is launched from the LMS
  • If you change due dates in XYZ Homework, they will be enforced by XYZ Homework, but the due dates in the LMS will not automatically be updated.
  • Any new items added in XYZ Homework, including new assessments, will not automatically show up in the LMS; you would need to repeat the export/import process.
  • If configured, grades will be sent from XYZ Homework to the LMS immediately every time the student completes a question, but the LMS may delay updating the grade.

Note: When configuring a course-level configuration, the use of a key in the form LTIkey_###_1 is recommended. With this type of key, students will not have or need a username for XYZ Homework, and they must access assignments via the LMS. This is usually desired when doing integration, and is necessary to ensure grades are passed from XYZ Homework back to the LMS. If, however, you are not interested in grade return, and simply want to provide single-signon from your LMS into XYZ Homework while allowing direct login to XYZ Homework as well, then you can use a key of the form LTIkey_###_0 instead. This will require students to have or create an account on XYZ Homework, which they'll have to log into once to establish the connection.

Blackboard Integration - Manual Process

To manually create a link to XYZ Homework, in Blackboard:

• Under the Build Content dropdown, select Web Link
• Give the link a Name
• For URL, enter https://www.xyzhomework.com/imathas/bltilaunch.php
• Click the checkbox for "This link is to a Tool Provider"
• If you have an LTI 1.3 connection or global LTI 1.1 college-wide key and secret, you will not see or need to fill out the following two entries.
  • For Key, enter LTIkey_####_1, where #### is your Course ID
  • For Secret, enter the secret shown in your XYZ Homework Course Settings
• If you are setting up a link to an individual assessment, set "Enabled Evaluation" to Yes, and enter the points possible. Whole course links to not return grades, so there is no need to enabled evaluation for those.
• Click Submit
• If the link you just created shows "(invalid link)" next to the name, they you'll need to ask your BlackBoard administrator to approve LTI connections to XYZ Homework.
• Click on the link you just created.
• If this is your first time using this key and secret, XYZ Homework will ask you, the teacher, to sign into your XYZ Homework account. This is necessary to establish a connection between your LMS account and your XYZ Homework account. You will not need to do this step again, and students will not be asked to sign in and will not need a XYZ Homework account.
• If this is your first link from this course, XYZ Homework will ask you to select the XYZ Homework course you want to connect your LMS course with.
• Select the assignment you want to link with, or select "Whole Course Placement" if you want a single link to your entire XYZ Homework course, then click Make Placement.

Be aware assessment links created manually in this way will lose their association with XYZ Homework assessments when the course is copied in BlackBoard, so using the Export/Import process is recommened if you are creating individual assessment links.

D2L Brightspace Integration

Go to Course Items → Export, select the items you want to export, select your LMS, and Download the Export Cartridge

To import the cartridge in Brightspace:

• Go to Course Admin, and select Import/Export/Copy Components.
• Select Import Components, and "from a course package"
• Choose the export file and click Import All Components.
• If you have an LTI 1.3 connection or global LTI 1.1 college-wide key and secret, you can skip ahead. If you need to set up a course-level configuration, follow these steps.
  • Go to Course Admin, and click External Learning Tools
  • Click on Manage Tool Providers. If you do not see this link, then your LMS administrators have blocked your ability to self-configure the connection. You will need to ask for them to set up a global tool provider.
  • Click New Tool Provider
  • For the Launch Point enter the address shown on the Export page
  • For the Secret enter the secret you set up in your Course Settings
  • Click the "Use custom tool information" box if needed
  • For the Key, enter the Key listed in the Export screen in your XYZ Homework course.
  • For the name name, enter: XYZ Homework
  • Click the "Allow users to use this tool provider" if that option is available.
  • Under Security Settings, make sure the following options are checked (it is OK to check other ones as well):
    • Send tool consumer information to tool provider
    • Send context information to tool provider
    • Send course information to tool provider
    • Send LTI user ID and LTI role to tool provider
    • Send user name to tool provider
    • Send user email to tool provider (optional, but recommended)
  • Save

Next you will need to establish the connection between your XYZ Homework course and Brightspace course

• In Brightspace, click one of the assessment links in your course.
• If this is your first time using this key and secret, XYZ Homework will ask you, the teacher, to sign into your XYZ Homework account. This is necessary to establish a connection between your LMS account and your XYZ Homework account. You will not need to do this step again.
• Follow the prompts to associate the LMS course with your existing XYZ Homework course or create a copy.
• Once complete, all the LTI links in your LMS should work.
• Be aware:
  • LTI assessments may not show in the gradebook columns until a student started working on an assignment.
  • Links, files, forums, and and text items were imported into your LMS. Changing them in XYZ Homework will not change them in your LMS
  • If you change assessment settings or the questions in an assessment in XYZ Homework, those changes will show up when the assessment is launched from the LMS
  • If you change due dates in XYZ Homework, they will be enforced by XYZ Homework, but the due dates in the LMS will not automatically be updated.
  • Any new items added in XYZ Homework, including new assessments, will not automatically show up in the LMS; you would need to repeat the export/import process.
  • If configured, grades will be sent from XYZ Homework to the LMS immediately every time the student completes a question, but the LMS may delay updating the grade.

Moodle Integration

Go to Course Items → Export, select the items you want to export, select your LMS, and Download the Export Cartridge

To import the cartridge in Moodle:

• Under Course Administration (in some versions, the big gear icon in the upper right), select Restore.
• Choose the export file and select Restore.
• Follow the prompts to import the content.
• Turn on editing for your course.
• For one of the assessment, use the Edit dropdown and select Edit Settings.
• If the Launch URL does not display the warning Tool configuration not found for this URL, then you must have an existing LTI 1.3 connection or LTI 1.1 key and secret set up, and can skip ahead. If you do see that warning, then follow these steps.
  • Click the + sign located directly after the External tool type pulldown (in some versions, this is labeled Preconfigured Tool)
  • Give the tool a name, like XYZ Homework
  • For Tool base URL enter the address shown on the Export page
  • For Consumer Key, enter the Key listed in the Export screen in your XYZ Homework course.
  • For Shared Secret enter the secret you set up in your Course Settings
  • Under Privacy, it is recommended to set all options to Always, but it is fine to leave it as Delegate to teacher instead.
  • Save changes
  • The Launch URL should now indicate Using tool configuration XYZ Homework. Click Save.

Next you will need to establish the connection between your XYZ Homework course and Moodle course

• In Moodle, click one of the assessment links in your course.
• If this is your first time using this key and secret, XYZ Homework will ask you, the teacher, to sign into your XYZ Homework account. This is necessary to establish a connection between your LMS account and your XYZ Homework account. You will not need to do this step again.
• Follow the prompts to associate the LMS course with your existing XYZ Homework course or create a copy.
• Once complete, all the LTI links in your LMS should work.
• Be aware:
  • LTI assessments may not show in the gradebook columns until a student started working on an assignment.
  • Links, files, forums, and and text items were imported into your LMS. Changing them in XYZ Homework will not change them in your LMS
  • If you change assessment settings or the questions in an assessment in XYZ Homework, those changes will show up when the assessment is launched from the LMS
  • If you change due dates in XYZ Homework, they will be enforced by XYZ Homework, but the due dates in the LMS will not automatically be updated.
  • Any new items added in XYZ Homework, including new assessments, will not automatically show up in the LMS; you would need to repeat the export/import process.
  • If configured, grades will be sent from XYZ Homework to the LMS immediately every time the student completes a question, but the LMS may delay updating the grade.

LTI Integration for Other LMSs - Using Import

Go to Course Items → Export, select the items you want to export, select your LMS, and Download the Export Cartridge. The cartridge is an IMS Common Cartridge format.

Import the cartridge into your LMS. If you have an LTI 1.3 connection or global LTI 1.1 college-wide key and secret, skip ahead. Otherwise, you'll likely need to configure the LTI connection by providing the key and secret, which can be found on the Course Settings page.

Next you will need to establish the connection between your XYZ Homework course and LMS course

• In your LMS, click one of the assessment links in your course.
• If this is your first time using this key and secret, XYZ Homework will ask you, the teacher, to sign into your XYZ Homework account. This is necessary to establish a connection between your LMS account and your XYZ Homework account. You will not need to do this step again.
• Follow the prompts to associate the LMS course with your existing XYZ Homework course or create a copy.
• Once complete, all the LTI links in your LMS should work.
• Be aware:
  • Links, files, forums, and and text items were imported into your LMS. Changing them in XYZ Homework will not change them in your LMS
  • If you change assessment settings or the questions in an assessment in XYZ Homework, those changes will show up when the assessment is launched from the LMS
  • If you change due dates in XYZ Homework, they will be enforced by XYZ Homework, but the due dates in the LMS will not automatically be updated.
  • Any new items added in XYZ Homework, including new assessments, will not automatically show up in the LMS; you would need to repeat the export/import process.
  • If configured, grades will be sent from XYZ Homework to the LMS immediately every time the student completes a question, but the LMS may delay updating the grade.

LTI Integration for Other LMSs - Manual Process

If you have an LTI 1.3 connection or global LTI 1.1 college-wide key and secret, you do not need to set up a course-level configuration. Otherwise, you will need to set up a course-level LTI configuration. Consult your LMS's help for how to do this; some LMSs configure an LTI took at the course settings level, while some have you enter the credentials with each link.

If you need to set up a course-level LTI configuration, you will need:

• A Consumer/Tool Key: LTIkey_####_1, where #### is your Course ID
• A Secret: use the LTI secret shown in your XYZ Homework Course Settings
• Launch/Tool URL: https://www.xyzhomework.com/imathas/bltilaunch.php

The process to set up LTI links varies by LMS, so consult your LMS for details.

Be aware assessment links created manually in this way will lose their association with XYZ Homework assessments when the course is copied in the LMS, so using the Export/Import process is recommened if you are creating individual assessment links and your LMS supports it.

Solver Input

• Select your code from the Common Control box, then either drag-drop or copy-paste it to the box below, or
• Highlight an expression in Common Control and press Ctrl-M to update the Solver code, or
• Highlight an expression in your code before clicking Solver.
• Select an operation to perform: Solve, Differentiate, Integrate, Plot.
• You may need to change the colored Sage code below to solve for the correct variable or to adjust the plot window etc. See the help icon below for examples.

Solver: Sage Syntax

#create symbolic variables
x,y,a,b,c,d = var('x,y,a,b,c,d')
# solve the equation for x
solve( y==(a*x+b)/(c*x-d) , x )

x = var('x')
#Differentiate
diff( 3*x^4 , x )

x = var('x')
#Plot in a standard window
plot( -x^2+4 , (x,-10,10) )

x = var('x')
#Simplify
simplify( 5*x+7*(-3*x-4) )


• Declare any variables using var() as above. By default, x is a variable.
• Use two equal signs for math equations.
• With solve() diff() integral() give the independent variable after a comma.
• With plot() a range for the independent variable must be specified, e.g. (x, -10, 10).
• Select a new operation or click Go to calculate.

Solver Output

• Drag the result above to the Common Control box where you define the $answer or any other location, or
• Click Insert in Common Control to append the result to the end of the Common Control, or
• Click Insert as $answer to append $answer = result to the Common Control (not available if $answer is already defined).
• Note: Touchscreens might not be supported by the drag operation.

Number

The student is asked to enter a number (integer, decimal, or scientific notation). The answer is compared to a given tolerance. Can also accept DNE, oo (Infinity), and -oo (Negative Infinity) as answers.

Required Variables

$answer = a number or calculation resulting in a number, like $answer = 5

Defines the answer. Define multiple acceptable answers in a string separated by or: $answer = "3 or 5 or 7". Alternatively, you can provide an interval notation range of acceptable answers, like $answer = "(2,5]". Providing a range will override any tolerances set. If $answerformat is set for list answers, then this should provide a list of correct answers, like $answer = "1,2,3".

Optional Variables

$reltolerance = a decimal value

Defines the largest relative error that will be accepted. If this is not set, a relative error of .001 (.1%) is used by default.

$abstolerance = a number

Defines the largest absolute error that will be accepted. This will override the use of $reltolerance

$reqdecimals = a number

Defines the minimum decimal accuracy required (ie 2 for two decimal places). This will put a message in the answer tips stating the decimals required. If neither $abstolerance or $reltolerance is set, this will set the tolerance, otherwise the provided tolerance will be used (even if it doesn't agree with the $reqdecimal setting).

$reqdecimals = "=2" can be used to require exactly 2 decimal places in the answer, regardless of how the value rounds (so 3.5 would get marked wrong when the answer is 3.50 if "=2" is used). If you use the "=2" form, it will also round your $answer if needed for the $showanswer.
$reqdecimals = "r2" can be used to require rounding to 2 decimal places in the answer, not checking for trailing zeros (so 3.5 would get marked correct when the answer is 3.50 if "r2" is used). If you use the "r2" form, it will also round your $answer if needed for the $showanswer.
When the "=2" or "r2" form is used, it overrides both $reltolerance and $abstolerance, and by default tests that the student answer exactly matches the correct answer ($abstolerance=0).
To override the tolerance use +- in the setting, like this:
$reqdecimals = "=2+-.01" checks for exactly 2 decimals, but allows the answer to have an absolute error of .01
$reqdecimals = "=2+-1%" checks for exactly 2 decimals, but allows the answer to have an relative error of 1% (equivalent to $reltolerance = .01)

$reqsigfigs = a number

Defines the significant figure accuracy required. Use $reqsigfigs = 2 for at least 2 sig fig accuracy, or $reqsigfigs = "=2" to require exactly 2 sig figs in the answer, or $reqsigfigs = "[2,4]" to require between 2 to 4 sigfigs. This will put also a message in the answer tips stating the significant figures required. If you use the "=2" form, it will also round your $answer if needed for the $showanswer.
This setting overrides both $reltolerance and $abstolerance, and by default tests that the student answer rounded to the specified sigfigs matches the correct answer. To override the tolerance use +- in the setting, like this:
$reqsigfigs = "=2+-.01" checks for exactly 2 sigfigs, but allows the answer to have an absolute error of .01
$reqsigfigs = "=2+-1%" checks for exactly 2 sigfigs, but allows the answer to have an relative error of 1% (equivalent to $reltolerance = .01)

$answerformat = "list", "exactlist", "orderedlist", "set", "integer, "units", "nosoln", or "nosolninf"

• Answerformats can be combined, like $answerformat = "nosoln,list"
• $answerformat = "list", "exactlist", or "orderedlist" specifies that a list of answers is expected.
• If $answerformat="list", then duplicate values are ignored.
• If $answerformat="exactlist", then duplicate values are not ignored.
• If $answerformat="orderedlist", the list must be in the same order and contain identical counts of values.
• $answerformat = "set" behaves like "list", but expects the answer list to be wrapped in curly braces as a set.
• $answerformat = "integer" changes the entry hint to only indicate integers, and rejects answers that contain decimals (except it does allow 2.0 instead of 2)
• $answerformat = "units" adds unit checking. Supply the answer like $answer = "3 kg/m^2". The student's answer can be in other equivalent units, so "300 cm" is considered equivalent to "3 m". The answer must be in the format [decimal number]*[unit]^[power]*[unit]^[power].../[unit]^[power]*[unit]^[power]..., though multiplication can be implied. Also, 'per' may be used for division of units, and 'unit squared', 'square unit', 'unit cubed' and 'cubic unit' may be used. Note that the units do not require mathematically-proper parens around the denominator. The decimal number can include basic scientific notation in 3E5 or 3*10^5 formats. Examples: 4 cm, and 3.5E4 feet per second squared Note that tolerances are scaled to the unit, so $answer = "3m" with $abstolerance = .1 would mean .1 meters, so "310cm" would still be within tolerance. If $reqsigfigs is set, the specified number of sigfigs will need to be present in the student's answer, regardless of units.
• $answerformat = "nosoln" or "nosolninf" adds a list radio buttons for "no solutions" and optionally "infinite solutions". $ansprompt can override the default statements like this: $ansprompt = "One value, x=;No values;Many values"

$requiretimes = a list, like "E,=0"

Adds format checking to the student's answer. The list can include multiple checks, which come in pairs. The first is the symbol to look for. The second describes what is acceptable. For example, in the string shown above, the symbol "E" would be required to show up exactly 0 times.
Be aware that if you search for "5,=1", it will match both 5 and 15 and 2.5, since all three strings contain a 5. When searching for numbers, you can avoid this by putting a "#" before the number, like "#5,=1", which would match the 5 but not 15 or 0.5. Beware this type of search ignores signs.
You can use just "#" in the symbol location to match any number (including decimal values); 3.2^5 would match twice.
You can match either of two symbols by putting || between them, like ".5||1/2,>0"
You can use a regular expression by putting in the symbol location "regex:expression"
You can put "ignore_commas,true" at the beginning of the $requiretimes to ignore commas in the answer

$requiretimeslistpart = a list, in the same format as $requiretimes

Similar to $requiretimes, but this check is applied to each element of the answer list when a list $answerformat is used, where $requiretimes would be applied to the entire list of answers.

$partialcredit = array(number,score,[number,score,...])

Allows you to specify partial credit for other answers. The array should be given in the form array(number,score,number,score,...), where number is the value to compare to the student answer, and score is a proportion between 0 and 1 to award as partial credit. Note this currently only works for single number answers; "or" and list answers are not supported.

$ansprompt = string

A string that will be displayed in front of the input box. Example: $ansprompt="y="

$displayformat = "alignright"

Aligns the text in the answer box to the right side

$answerboxsize = number

Determines the number of characters space provided for entry of an answer. Defaults to 20.

$readerlabel = string

A string that will be used as a visually hidden label on the input box for screenreaders.

$answerbox (In Question Text)

Using the variable $answerbox in the Question Text will place the question input box in that location

$showanswer

The answer to show to students (if option if available). Defaults to $answer. Use this to give a detailed answer, or a rounded off answer.

$hidetips = true

Hides the question entry tips that display by default. This should only be used when a question type is being used in an unintentional way, or if the question type gives away critical info to the student.

Calculated

A student is asked to enter a number or a calculation, like 2/3, 5^2, or sin(2). Can also accept DNE, oo (Infinity), and -oo (Negative Infinity) as answers.

Required Variables

$answer = a number or calculation resulting in a number

Defines the answer. Define multiple acceptable answers in a string separated by or: $answer = "3 or 5 or 7". Alternatively, you can provide an interval notation range of acceptable answers, like $answer = "(2,5]". Providing a range will override any tolerances set

To have the answer display as a rendered expression, provide the answer as a string. For example, if you want the answer to show as 2⁴ then you'd specify $answer = "2^4". If you specified $answer = 2^4, the answer would display as 16.

Optional Variables

$answerformat = "fraction", or one of the other options below.

Specifies answer format options. Some can be combined in a list, like this: $answerformat="nodecimal,notrig".

• Base format types: only use at most one of these at a time
  • fraction: requires the answer to be a single fraction (like 10/6, 1/3, or 5)
  • reducedfraction: a reduced fraction (like 5/3 or 5)
  • mixednumber: a reduced mixed number (like 2 1/2 or 2_1/2, or 2/3 or 5)
  • mixednumberorimproper: a reduced mixed number or improper fraction (like 2 1/2 or 5/2)
  • sloppymixednumber: a mixed number (will take 5/2, 2 1/2, even 1 3/2)
  • scinot: scientific notation (like 2.3*10^4)
  • scinotordec: scientific notation (like 2.3*10^4) or decimal value
  • fracordec: a single fraction or decimal value. Can be combined with "allowmixed" to also allow mixed numbers.
  • decimal: requires the answer to be an integer or decimal value
• Mix-ins: You can add these as needed to modify what's allowed
  • allowunreduced: can be combined with "mixednumber" or "mixednumberorimproper" to allow unreduced fractional parts
  • allowxtimes: allows the use of x for multiplication (like 23x10^2 for 23*10^2), typically in combo with the "scinot" format
  • allowplusminus: allow use of +- in the answer. Will enable the 'list' option if not already included.
  • nodecimal: require an answer without decimals (also disallows 10^-2 and 3E-2)
  • notrig: require an answer without trig functions (sin,cos,tan,sec,csc,cot)
  • allowmixed: will enable support for mixed numbers (like 2 1/2) in answers
  • allowdegrees: will enable the use of the degree symbol to designate degrees, so sin(30degree)=1/2.
  • noval: tells the answer preview to not compute a decimal equivalent (deprecated - this option is now enabled by default)
  • showval: tells the answer preview to display a decimal equivalent
  • sameform: requires the student's answer be in the "same form" as the correct answer. This means exactly the same, except for commutation of addition and multiplication, multiplication by 1, implicit multiplication, and extra parentheses. Use with caution.
• List options: only use at most one of these at a time
  • list: a list of answers is expected - ignores duplicate values (1,1,2 is equivalent to 1,2)
  • exactlist: a list of answers is expected - does not ignore duplicates
  • orderedlist: a list of answers is expected - order is important, and duplicates are not ignored
• Special options:
  • nosoln: adds radio buttons for "no solutions". Use $answer="DNE" if the answer is no solutions.
  • nosolninf: adds radio buttons for "no solutions" and "infinite solutions". Use $answer="DNE" or $answer="oo" respectively if needed.
  • To override the default "no solutions" and "infinite solutions" wording, you can define $ansprompt as a list of semicolon-delimited strings to override the default wording. For example,
    $ansprompt = "One value, x=;No values;Many values"

$formatfeedbackon = true

Turns on "right answer, wrong format" feedback on the question

$reltolerance = a decimal value

Defines the largest relative error that will be accepted. If this is not set, a relative error of .001 (.1%) is used by default.

$abstolerance = a number

Defines the largest absolute error that will be accepted. This will override the use of $reltolerance

$reqdecimals = a number

Defines the decimal accuracy required (ie 2 for two decimal places). This will put a message in the answer tips stating the decimals required. If neither $abstolerance or $reltolerance is set, this will set the tolerance, otherwise the provided tolerance will be used (even if it doesn't agree with the $reqdecimal setting).

$reqsigfigs = a number

Defines the significant figure accuracy required. Only valid for "decimal", "scinot", and "scinotordec" $answerformat options. Use $reqsigfigs = 2 for at least 2 sig fig accuracy, or $reqsigfigs = "=2" to require exactly 2 sig figs in the answer, or $reqsigfigs = "[2,4]" to require 2 to 4 sigfigs. This will put also a message in the answer tips stating the significant figures required. If you use the "=2" form, it will also round your $answer if needed for the $showanswer.
This setting overrides both $reltolerance and $abstolerance, and by default tests that the student answer rounded to the specified sigfigs matches the correct answer. To override the tolerance use +- in the setting, like this:
$reqsigfigs = "=2+-.01" checks for exactly 2 sigfigs, but allows the answer to have an absolute error of .01
$reqsigfigs = "=2+-1%" checks for exactly 2 sigfigs, but allows the answer to have an relative error of 1% (equivalent to $reltolerance = .01)

$requiretimes = a list, like "^,=3,cos,<2"

Adds format checking to the student's answer. The list can include multiple checks, which come in pairs. The first is the symbol to look for. The second describes what is acceptable. For example, in the string shown above, the symbol "^" would be required to show up exactly 3 times, and "cos" would be required to show up less than 2 times.
Be aware that if you search for "5,=1", it will match both 5 and 15 and 2.5, since all three strings contain a 5. When searching for numbers, you can avoid this by putting a "#" before the number, like "#5,=1", which would match the 5 but not 15 or 0.5. Beware this type of search ignores signs.
You can use just "#" in the symbol location to match any number (including decimal values); 3.2^5 would match twice.
You can match either of two symbols by putting || between them, like ".5||1/2,>0"
You can use a regular expression by putting in the symbol location "regex:expression"
You can put "ignore_commas,true" at the beginning of the $requiretimes to ignore commas in the answer
You can put "ignore_spaces,true" at the beginning of the $requiretimes to ignore spaces in the answer
You can put "ignore_symbol,$" (or some symbol other than $) at the beginning of the $requiretimes to ignore that symbol in the answer

$requiretimeslistpart = a list, in the same format as $requiretimes

Similar to $requiretimes, but this check is applied to each element of the answer list when a list $answerformat is used, where $requiretimes would be applied to the entire list of answers. To apply different $requiretimes to each element of the $answer list, separate them with semicolons, like "pi,=1;/,=1;;"

$partialcredit = array(answer,score,[answer,score,...])

Allows you to specify partial credit for other answers. The array should be given in the form array(answer,score,answer,score,...), where answer is the numerical or string expression to compare to the student answer, and score is a proportion between 0 and 1 to award as partial credit. Note this currently only works for single answers; "or" answers and lists are not supported. If needed, you can make $requiretimes and/or $answerformat an array, with the first entry to be applied to the $answer, and subsequent entries to apply to the $partialcredit answers.

$ansprompt = string

A string that will be displayed in front of the input box. Example: $ansprompt="y="

$answerboxsize = number

Determines the number of characters space provided for entry of an answer. Defaults to 20.

$hidepreview = true

Hides the Preview button. Could be useful in multipart questions, or if you're only asking for a simple response, like a fraction

$readerlabel = string

A string that will be used as a visually hidden label on the input box for screenreaders.

$answerbox (In Question Text)

Using the variable $answerbox in the Question Text will place the question input box in that location

$showanswer

The answer to show to students (if option if available). Defaults to $answer. Use this to give a detailed answer, or a rounded off answer.

$previewloc (In Question Text)

Where you want the preview button to be located. Defaults to after the entry box if not placed in question text.

$hidetips = true

Hides the question entry tips that display by default. This should only be used when a question type is being used in an unintentional way, or if the question type gives away critical info to the student.

Multiple-Choice

Required Variables

$questions (or $choices) = an array of choices

Defines the choices. If you use $choices, don't define $questions

$answer = the index into $questions that contains the correct answer

Defines the answer. Remember that arrays are zero-indexed, so if $questions = array("correct","wrong","wrong"), then $answer=0. Define multiple acceptable answer indices in a string separated by or: $answer = "0 or 1".

Optional Variables

$displayformat = "horiz", "select", "2column, "3column", or "inline"

Will lay out the choices horizontally, as a select box, in multiple columns, or inline with text rather than using the default vertical layout

$noshuffle = "all" or "last" or "last2"

If $noshuffle="all", then the $questions array will not be randomized (shuffled). If $noshuffle = "last", then the $questions array will be randomized, except for the last element. This is for options like "None of the above". You can use "last2" or "last3" to randomize all but the last 2 or 3 elements.

$partialcredit = array(index,score,[index,score,...])

Allows you to specify partial credit for other answers. The array should be given in the form array(index,score,index,score,...), where index is the index in $questions, and score is a proportion between 0 and 1 to award as partial credit. For example, if $answer = 0 and $partialcredit = array(2,.3), then the student would get full credit for selecting the item corresponding with $questions[0], and 30% credit for selecting the item corresponding with $questions[2]. All other answers would receive 0 credit.

$readerlabel = string

A string that will be used as a visually hidden label on the input box for screenreaders.

$ansprompt = string

When $displayformat = "select" is used, this allows you to override the default "Select an answer" text that displays. Do not use this unless there's a really strong reason to.

$answerbox (In Question Text)

Using the variable $answerbox in the Question Text will place the choice list in that location

$showanswer

The answer to show to students (if option if available). Defaults to the text of the correct answer. Use this to substitute a detailed answer.

$hidetips = true

Hides the question entry tips that display by default. This should only be used when a question type is being used in an unintentional way, or if the question type gives away critical info to the student.

Multiple-Answer

Required Variables

$questions (or $choices)= an array of questions

Defines the choices. If you use $choices, don't define $questions

$answers = a list of the indexes into $questions that contain the correct answer

Defines the answers. Remember that arrays are zero-indexed, if $questions = array("correct","correct","wrong"), then $answers="0,1". Or there are more than one correct combination, separate with or, like $answers = "0,1 or 0,3"

Optional Variables

$scoremethod = "answers" or "allornothing" or "takeanything"

By default, the total points possible are divided by the number of questions, and partial credit is lost for each correct answer missed and each wrong answer selected. If $scoremethod="answers" is set, then the total points possible are divided by the number of answers (tougher grading scheme). If $scoremethod="allornothing", then the student will only get credit if every piece is correct (no partial credit). if $scoremethod="takeanything", full credit will be given for any response.

$displayformat = "horiz", "2column, "3column", or "inline"

Will lay out the choices horizontally, in multiple columns, or inline with text rather than using the default vertical layout

$noshuffle = "all" or "last"

If $noshuffle="all", then the $questions array will not be randomized (shuffled). If $noshuffle="last", then the last element of $questions will not be randomized (shuffled) but the others will.

$answerformat = "addnone"

Adds "None of these" to the options. This is added automatically if $answers="", and you can add "None of these" yourselv to $questions, but this provides another way to always include the "None of these" option.

$readerlabel = string

A string that will be used as a visually hidden label on the input box for screenreaders.

$answerbox (In Question Text)

Using the variable $answerbox in the Question Text will place the choice list in that location

$showanswer

The answer to show to students (if option if available). Defaults to the text of the correct answers. Use this to substitute a detailed answer.

$hidetips = true

Hides the question entry tips that display by default. This should only be used when a question type is being used in an unintentional way, or if the question type gives away critical info to the student.

Matching

Required Variables

$questions = an array of questions

Defines the questions - these will be on the left with entry boxes

$answers = an array of answers

Defines the answers - these will be on the right and lettered

Optional Variables

$matchlist = a list of the indexes into $answers that contain the match to each question.

Defines correct matches. By default, it is assumed that each element of $questions is matched one-to-one with the corresponding element of $answers (in other words, that $answers[0] is the answer to $questions[0]).
$matchlist allows you to define one-to-many matches. Example: if $questions=array("cat","dog","quartz") and $answers=array("animal","mineral"), then $matchlist = "0,0,1"

$questiontitle = string

Displays a title above the list of questions. For example, if $questions was a list of states, then $questiontitle="States" would be appropriate

$answertitle = string

Displays a title above the list of answers

$noshuffle = "questions" or "answers"

Retains original order of questions or answers, and only shuffles the other. By default, both lists are shuffled

$displayformat = "select" or "2columnselect"

Only displays the $questions, with select boxes next to each containing the $answers. This should only be used with pure text $answers.

$scoremethod = "allornothing"

Setting "allornothing" will mean no partial credit is given, and the student must match all parts correctly to get credit.

$ansprompt = string

This allows you to override the default "-" that displays in the dropdowns when no selection has been made, for example to replace it with "?". It's recommended to not use this unless there's a really strong reason to.

$readerlabel = string

A string that will be used as a visually hidden label on the input box for screenreaders.

$answerbox (In Question Text)

Using the variable $answerbox in the Question Text will place matching questions and answers in that location

$showanswer

The answer to show to students (if option if available). Defaults to the list of correct matches. Use this to substitute a detailed answer.

$hidetips = true

Hides the question entry tips that display by default. This should only be used when a question type is being used in an unintentional way, or if the question type gives away critical info to the student.

Function

Required Variables

$answer = string

Defines the answer function, entered as a string. For example, $answer="2sin(x)". You can specify multiple acceptable answers by separating with "or", like $answer="x^2 or x^4"
Note: The system will accept any algebraically equivalent answer. To only allow answers of a specific format, you'll also need to define $requiretimes (see below).

Optional Variables

$variables = string

A list of all variables in the function (including letters representing constants). Defaults to "x". Can use "f()" to indicate a symbol represents a function.

$domain = "inputmin,inputmax"

Defines the domain on which to compare the given answer and correct answer functions. The same domain applies to all variables. An option third list element "integers" can be given, which limits the domain to integer values. The domain defaults to real numbers from -10 to 10. If using multiple variables, can extend domain to define domain for each variable separately. Example: $variables = "x,y"; $domain = "0,5,20,25"

$requiretimes = a list, like "^,=3,cos,<2"

Adds format checking to the student's answer. The list can include multiple checks, which come in pairs. The first is the symbol to look for. The second describes what is acceptable. For example, in the string shown above, the symbol "^" would be required to show up exactly 3 times, and "cos" would be required to show up less than 2 times. You can use "#" in the symbol location to match any number (including decimal values); 3.2x+42y would match twice.
You can use a regular expression by putting in the symbol location "regex:expression"
You can match either of two symbols by putting || between them, like "x^-3||/x^3,>0"
Include "ignore_case,false" to make the search case sensitive.
You can put "ignore_spaces,true" at the beginning of the $requiretimes to ignore spaces in the answer
Include "ignore_symbol,$" (or some symbol other than $) at the beginning of the $requiretimes to ignore that symbol in the answer
Note that commas are ignored by default with Function type, and a basic exponent like x^(-3) is converted to x^-3 before the check.

$answerformat = "equation" or "inequality" or "generalcomplex" or "toconst" or "scalarmult" or "nosoln" or "nosolninf" or "sameform" or "list" or "casesensitivevars" (can combine, like "equation,nosoln")

By default, the student answer is expected to be an expression, and be equivalent (at points) to the specified answer. This option changes this behavior.
"equation": Specifies that the answer expected is an equation rather than an expression. The given answer should also be an equation. Be sure to specify all variables in the equation in $variables. This may fail on equations that are near zero for most values of the input; this can often be overcome by changing the $domain
"inequality": Specifies that the answer is expected to be an inequality rather than an expression. The given answers should also be an inequality. Be sure to specify all variables in the equation in $variables. This may fail on equations that are near zero for most values of the input; this can often be overcome by changing the $domain
"generalcomplex": Specifies the answer is a complex function, involving i.
"list": Allow a list of expressions or equations to be entered. Does not ignore duplicates. You cannot use this in combination with $partialcredit. $requiretimes will apply to each element of the list.
"toconst": Specifies that the answer provided by the student is allowed to differ from the specified answer by a constant for all inputs. Appropriate for comparing antiderivatives. This may fail on expressions that evaluate to very large values or raise numbers to very large powers.
"scalarmult": Specifies that the answer provided by the student is allowed to differ from the specified answer by a scalar multiple.
"allowplusminus": allow use of +- in the answer. Will enable the 'list' option if not already included.
"nosoln" or "nosolninf" adds a list radio buttons for "no solutions" and optionally "infinite solutions". $ansprompt can override the default statements like this: $ansprompt = "One function, f(x)=;No such function exists"
"sameform": requires the student's answer be in the "same form" as the correct answer. This means exactly the same, except for commutation of addition and multiplication, multiplication by 1, implicit multiplication, and extra parentheses. (2x-3)(5-x) would be "sameform" as (-1x+5)(2*x-3), but 2/4x and 1/2x and 0.5x would not be "sameform". Use with caution.
"casesensitivevars": By default answers with incorrect case variables (like X instead of x) will be accepted. Add this option to not ignore case on variables.

$partialcredit = array(string,score,[string,score,...])

Allows you to specify partial credit for other answers. The array should be given in the form array(string,score,string,score,...), where string is the expression to compare to the student answer, and score is a proportion between 0 and 1 to award as partial credit. Note this currently only works for single expression answers; "or" answers are not supported.

$formatfeedbackon = true

Turns on "right answer, wrong format" feedback on the question

$reltolerance = a decimal value

Defines the largest relative error that will be accepted. If this is not set, a relative error of .001 (.1%) is used by default.

$abstolerance = a number

Defines the largest absolute error that will be accepted. This will override the use of $reltolerance

$ansprompt = string

A string that will be displayed in front of the input box. Example: $ansprompt="y="

$answerboxsize = number

Determines the number of characters space provided for entry of an answer. Defaults to 20.

$hidepreview = true

Hides the Preview button. Could be useful in multipart questions, but generally not recommended

$readerlabel = string

A string that will be used as a visually hidden label on the input box for screenreaders.

$answerbox (In Question Text)

Using the variable $answerbox in the Question Text will place the question input box in that location

$showanswer

The answer to show to students (if option if available). Defaults to makeprettydisp($answer).

$previewloc (In Question Text)

Where you want the preview button to be located. Defaults to after the entry box if not placed in question text.

$hidetips = true

Hides the question entry tips that display by default. This should only be used when a question type is being used in an unintentional way, or if the question type gives away critical info to the student.

String

Required Variables

$answer = a string

Defines the answer. Multiple acceptable answers can be entered using "or". Example: $answer = "dog or cat"

Optional Variables

$strflags = string of flags, like "ignore_case=1,trim_whitespace=0"

Determines how the string will be compared. Set to 1 to turn on, 0 for off. Flags are:

• ignore_case: ignores capitol/lowercase differences
• trim_whitespace: trims leading and ending whitespace (spaces)
• compress_whitespace: compresses multiple spaces to one space and trims
• remove_whitespace: removes all whitespace (spaces)
• ignore_order: treats ABC and CBA as equivalent
• ignore_commas: removes commas
• partial_credit: awards partial credit based on Levenshtein distance between strings
• allow_diff=n: gives full credit for answers with Levenshtein distance between strings ≤ n
• in_answer: gives credit if $answer is contained anywhere in the student answer
• regex: interprets $answer as a regular expression (pattern) to evaluate the student's answer. For example, $answer="cost.*increas" will give credit if the word cost appears before increas in the student's answer. $answer="increas|ris" will accept any of the following: increasing, increases, rising, or risen etc.
• special_or: use *or* for separating answers rather than or.
• ignore_symbol=sym: Unlike the other flags, this is not an on/off flag. Set this equal to a symbol to ignore that symbol in student answers. This flag can be used multiple times with different symbols.

By default, compress_whitespace and ignore_case are On. Only one of partial_credit, allow_diff, in_answer or regex may be used at a time.

$scoremethod = "takeanything" or "takeanythingorblank" or "submitblank"

"takeanything" or "takeanythingorblank" sets the problem to give full credit for any answer. "takeanythingorblank" also counts blank answers as correct. "submitblank" will cause blank answers to get submitted for scoring (new system only).

$answerformat = "list" or "logic" or "setexp"

"list" specifies that a list of answers is expected. Renders ignore_commas unnecessary. Cannot be used with partial_credit flag. Duplicates are not ignored.

"logic" enables a separate grading algorithm for logic statements, ignoring $strflags. The $answer should be given using vv for or, ^^ for and, neg for not, xor for exclusive or, => for conditional, and <=> for biconditional. Parens are supported, but no other symbols. The variables used in the logic expression must be declared by defining $variables.

"setexp" enables a separate grading algorithm for set expression statements, ignoring $strflags. The $answer should be given using 'nn' for intersection, 'uu' for union, '-' for set difference, '^c' for set complement, and 'oplus' for symmetric difference.

$displayformat = "usepreview" or "typeahead" or "usepreviewnomq"

"usepreview" enables mathquill entry for mathematical answers.
"usepreviewnomq" adds a preview button for previewing mathematical answers in asciimath.
"typeahead" will enable an auto-suggest list of options once the student has typed at least two letters of the word. Provide the auto-suggest list in the variable $questions.

$variables

When $answerformat="logic" or "setexp" is used, define the $variables in the logic statement, like "p,q"

$requiretimes = a list, like "^,=3,cos,<2"

Adds format checking to the student's answer. Usually not needed for string questions, but can be useful when the "logic" or "setexp" answerformat is used. The list can include multiple checks, which come in pairs. The first is the symbol to look for. The second describes what is acceptable. For example, in the string shown above, the symbol "^" would be required to show up exactly 3 times, and "cos" would be required to show up less than 2 times.

$ansprompt = string

A string that will be displayed in front of the input box. Example: $ansprompt="type: "

$answerboxsize = number

Determines the number of characters space provided for entry of an answer. Defaults to 20.

$readerlabel = string

A string that will be used as a visually hidden label on the input box for screenreaders.

$answerbox (In Question Text)

Using the variable $answerbox in the Question Text will place the answer entry box in that location

$showanswer

The answer to show to students (if option if available). Defaults to the text of the correct answer. Use this to substitute a detailed answer.

$hidetips = true

Hides the question entry tips that display by default. This should only be used when a question type is being used in an unintentional way, or if the question type gives away critical info to the student.

Essay

Required Variables

None - the essay type is not computer graded.

Optional Variables

$answerboxsize = "rows" or $answerboxsize = "rows,columns"

Determines size of space provided for entry of an answer. Defaults to 5 rows, 50 columns.

$displayformat = "editor" or "editornopaste" or "pre"

"editor" to use the rich text editor for the essay answer box, or "editornopaste" for the rich text editor with paste disabled.
"pre" to use standard text entry, and to display in gradebook as preformatted text.

$scoremethod = "takeanything" or "takeanythingorblank" or "nomanual"

The first two sets the problem to give full credit for any answer. The second also counts blank answers as correct. The "nomanual" option will give no credit for any answer, but doesn't mark the question as needing manual grading.

$readerlabel = string

A string that will be used as a visually hidden label on the input box for screenreaders.

$answerbox (In Question Text)

Using the variable $answerbox in the Question Text will place the essay box in that location

$showanswer

The answer to show to students (if option if available). Defaults to the text of the correct answer. Use this to substitute a detailed answer.

$hidetips = true

Hides the question entry tips that display by default. This should only be used when a question type is being used in an unintentional way, or if the question type gives away critical info to the student.

Drawing

Drawing questions require the student to draw one or more lines/curves or dots. Dots are graded right/wrong. Lines/curves are graded based on the deviation of the drawn line from the correct line.

Required Variables

$answers = a string or array of strings describing the points or curves to be drawn

Curves: "f(x)" like "x^2+3".
Line segments or rays: "f(x),xmin,xmax", like "x+1,-3,2" or "x+1,-oo,3"
Dots: "x,y" for closed dots, "x,y,open" for open dots, like "2,3"
See below for additional entry formats for other curves when using "twopoint" drawing.
When using twopoint drawing, you can preface an answer with "optional", like "optional,2,3", to indicate that drawing element is not required, but shouldn't mark down the score if present.

Recommended Variables

$answerformat = "twopoint", "polygon", "inequality", "numberline", "freehand", or (for the older tools), "line,lineseg,dot,opendot"

Limits the drawing tools available to students. Defaults to the older drawing tools "line,dot,opendot".

$answerformat="twopoint" will use a different set of drawing tools for specific shapes that all use two control points to define the shape. It is strongly recommended you use these instead of the older tools.

• $answerformat="twopoint" will use a default tool set of line, parabola, absolute value, circle, and dot tools
• You can limit or expand the tools by specifying them: e.g. $answerformat = "twopoint,line,parab". Valid values are:
  • line (lines)
  • dashedline (dashed lines)
  • lineseg (line segment)
  • ray (rays)
  • parab (vertical parabolas)
  • horizparab (horizontal parabolas)
  • halfparab (half a vertical parabola)
  • 3pointparab (parabola given 3 points)
  • cubic (a(x-h)^3+k style cubics)
  • abs (absolute value)
  • circle (circles)
  • dot (closed dots)
  • opendot (open dots)
  • sqrt (square root)
  • cuberoot (cube root)
  • trig (sin and cos)
  • tan (tan and cot function)
  • vector (position or displacement vectors)
  • exp (exponential with horizontal asymptote at y=0)
  • genexp (exponential with any horizontal asymptote)
  • log (logarithm with vertical asymptote at x=0)
  • genlog (logarithm with any vertical asymptote)
  • rational (linear/linear rational)
  • ellipse (ellipses)
  • hyperbola (vertical or horizontal hyperbolas)
• For lines, vertical parabolas, absolute values, square roots, cubics, cuberoots, sines, cosines, exponentials, logs, and rationals (linear/linear only) give $answers as a function of x, like "2(x-1)^2+3"
• For line segments and rays, given $answers as a function with domain, like "2x+4,-oo,3", or for vertical line segments use x= and give the range, like "x=4,-2,3"
• For dashed lines, give $answers as "dashedline,function" like "dashedline,2/3x+4"
• For dots give $answers as "x,y", or "x,y,open" for open dots
• For circles, give $answers as "circle,x,y,radius", like "circle,2,-1,3".
• For ellipses, give $answers as "ellipse,x,y,x_radius,y_radius", like "ellipse,1,2,4,2"
• For hyperbolas of form (x-h)^2/a^2-(y-k)^2/b^2=1, give $answers as "horizhyperbola,h,k,a,b"
• For hyperbolas of form (y-k)^2/a^2-(x-h)^2/b^2=1, give $answers as "verthyperbola,h,k,a,b"
• For horizontal parabolas give $answers as "x=equation", like "x=2(y-1)^2-3".
• For half parabolas give $answers as "equation,>xvertex", like "(x-1)^2-3,>1". Note only half parabolas are supported, not arbitrary segments.
• For vertical lines give $answers as "x=number", like "x=3".
• For vectors, give $answers as "vector, x_start, y_start, x_end, y_end" for position vectors, or "vector, dx, dy" for displacement vectors. Note you can use $scoremethod to change how vectors are scored.

$answerformat = "polygon" can be used for drawing a single polygon; give $answer as array of points in order joined with edges.

$answerformat = "closedpolygon" can be used for drawing a single polygon that is closed; the enclosed area will be shaded and the drawing terminate when the shape is closed. The format is the same as "polygon", except make sure the first and last entry of your $answers array are identical.

$answerformat="inequality" will use a set of drawing tools for graphing linear inequalities in two variables. Give $answers for non-vertical lines in form like ">=3x+4", "<5x+4", and "x<=3" for vertical lines.

$answerformat="inequality,parab" will use a set of drawing tools for graphing quadratic inequalities in two variables. Give $answers in form like ">=x^2-4", "<x^2+1". Use $answerformat="inequality,both" to turn on lines and parabolas.

$answerformat="inequality,abs" will use a set of drawing tools for graphing absolute value inequalities in two variables. Give $answers in form like ">=abs(x-3)+4", "<3abs(x)". Use $answerformat="inequality,line,abs,parab" or some combo to turn on multiple tools.

$answerformat="numberline" will use a set of drawing tools for graphing inequalities or points in one variable on a number line. Give $answers as dots and line segments, or use the intervalstodraw function from the interval macro library to form the $answers array.

$answerformat="freehand" will allow freehand drawing without any drawing tools. This mode can NOT be autograded, and should only be used for manually graded answers.

$answerformat can also be used to limit the older tools: $answerformat = "line", or $answerformat = "line,dot"

$snaptogrid = spacing

Turns on snapping, where points will jump to a grid. $snaptogrid = 1 will jump to the nearest integer. $snaptogrid = 0.5 will jump to the nearest .5. $snaptogrid = "2:4" will jump to the nearest 2 in the x and 4 in the y. Does not have to match the actual grid line spacing. Be aware that due to pixelation, the snapping may not land on exact values correctly. This is usually corrected for automatically, but it sometimes fails if the correction would be too large. In that case, use the getsnapwidthheight macro to compute an imagewidth and imageheight that will be pixel accurate.

Optional Variables

$grid = "xmin,xmax,ymin,ymax,xscl,yscl,imagewidth,imageheight"

Defines the grid to be drawn on. Defaults to "-5,5,-5,5,1,1,300,300". You can set all or just some of the values. For example, to just set the window, you could use "0,10,0,10"
If using $answerformat="numberline", set ymin and ymax to 0.
If desired, you can set separate label and grid spacing using "xmin,xmax,ymin,ymax,xlabelspacing:xgridspacing,ylabelspacing:ygridspacing,imagewidth,imageheight". You can specify axis labels using "xmin,xmax,ymin,ymax,xlabelspacing:xgridspacing:xaxislabel,ylabelspacing:ygridspacing:yaxislabel,imagewidth,imageheight". To create first quadrant graphs, use "0:-n" (for some value of n) for xmin and/or ymin to only have gridlines and labels after 0, while still using -n to adjust spacing.

$background = equation or array of equations, using the showplot macro format

Define a graph to display in the background, to be drawn on top of. Example: $background = "x^2,red".
You can also set $background a string of asciisvg commands prefaced with "draw:", like "draw:line([1,1],[3,3]);". Note that initPicture and axes will already have been called, so do not include them.
You can also set $background to "none" to remove axes and the grid.
To specify alt-text for the background, add an element to the background array, like $background = ["x^2,red","alt:a parabola"]. For a background using draw, add the alt at the end of your commands, like: "draw:line([1,1],[3,3]);alt:a line segment". Note that this provided alt will replace everything, including the basic window information.

$partweights = array or list of weights

Defines grading weight for each line or dot in $answers. Example: $partweights = ".5,.25,.25". Defaults to equal weights on each line or dot.

$reltolerance = tolerance scaling factor

Scales the grading tolerance. Defaults to 1. Set $reltolerance = 2 to make the grading twice as tolerant; $reltolerance = 0.5 to make grading half as forgiving

$abstolerance = grading cutoff

Sets all-or-nothing grading. If score < $abstolerance, the student receives 0 for the question (note: score is between 0 and 1). Otherwise the student will receive full credit. Not set by default.

$scoremethod = "takeanything", "direction", "relativelength", "ignoreoverlap", "ignoreextradots"

When "takeanything" is used, this will give full credit for any non-blank answer. This might be of use with the freehand drawing option.
"direction" and "relativelength" are only used for vectors. "direction" will score the initial point and direction for position vectors, but not length, and will only score direction for displacement vectors. "relativelength" will score like "direction", but will also check that the drawn vectors have correct lengths relative to each other.
"ignoreoverlap" only works with $answerformat="line", and will not deduct for overlapped lines.
"ignoreextradots" only works with $answerformat="polgon" and "closedpolygon", and will ignore any extra dots drawn along a side of the polygon.

$readerlabel = string

A string that will be used as a visually hidden label on the input box for screenreaders.

$answerbox (In Question Text)

Using the variable $answerbox in the Question Text will place the question input drawing tool in that location

$showanswer

The answer to show to students (if option if available). Defaults to the text of the correct answer. Use this to substitute a detailed answer.

$hidetips = true

Hides the question entry tips that display by default. This should only be used when a question type is being used in an unintentional way, or if the question type gives away critical info to the student.

N-Tuple

N-Tuple questions require the student to enter an n-tuple or list of n-tuples. This can be used for coordinate points, vectors, or any other n-tuple of numbers.

Required Variables

$answer = a string containing an n-tuple or list of n-tuples

Defines the answer n-tuple or list of n-tuples. N-tuples can be any dimension, but must be surrounded by any of: (), [], {}, <>. Examples: $answer = "(1,2)", $answer = "<2,3,4>,<1,5,7>", $answer = "(1,2) or (1,3)"

Optional Variables

$displayformat = "point", "pointlist", "vector", "vectorlist", "list", "set", "setlist"

Changes the answer entry tips (does NOT change how the question is graded). For points, entry like (2,3) is specified. For vectors, entry like <2,3> is specified.

$answerformat = "scalarmult", "anyorder", "nosoln", "nosolninf"

"scalarmult" will accept any answer that is a scalar multiple of the correct answer.
"anyorder" will accept elements in any order, so (2,1) would be treated equivalent to (1,2)
$answerformat = "nosoln" or "nosolninf" adds a list radio buttons for "no solutions" and optionally "infinite solutions". $ansprompt can override the default statements like this: $ansprompt = "One value, x=;No values;Many values"

$scoremethod = "byelement"

By default, the whole n-tuple must be correct to receive any credit. Set $scoremethod = "byelement" to give partial credit if only some elements of the n-tuple are correct.

$partweights = ".2,.8"

Can be used with $scoremethod = "byelement" to change the value of each part of the ntuple

$reltolerance = a decimal value

Defines the largest relative error that will be accepted. If this is not set, a relative error of .001 (.1%) is used by default.

$abstolerance = a number

Defines the largest absolute error that will be accepted. This will override the use of $reltolerance

$readerlabel = string

A string that will be used as a visually hidden label on the input box for screenreaders.

$answerbox (In Question Text)

Using the variable $answerbox in the Question Text will place the question input drawing tool in that location

$showanswer

The answer to show to students (if option if available). Defaults to the text of the correct answer. Use this to substitute a detailed answer.

$hidetips = true

Hides the question entry tips that display by default. This should only be used when a question type is being used in an unintentional way, or if the question type gives away critical info to the student.

Calculated N-Tuple

Calculated N-Tuple questions require the student to enter an n-tuple or list of n-tuples. This can be used for coordinate points, vectors, or any other n-tuple of numbers. This is identical the the N-tuple answer type, but allows students to enter mathematical expressions rather than just numbers, such as (5/3, 2/3).

Required Variables

$answer = a string containing an n-tuple or list of n-tuples

Defines the answer n-tuple or list of n-tuples. N-tuples can be any dimension, but must be surrounded by any of: (), [], {}, <>. Examples: $answer = "(1/3,2)", $answer = "<2,3,4>,<1,5,7>", $answer = "(1,2) or (1,3)"

Optional Variables

$displayformat = "point", "pointlist", "vector", "vectorlist", "list", "set", "setlist"

Changes the answer entry tips (does NOT change how the question is graded). For points, entry like (2,3) is specified. For vectors, entry like <2,3> is specified.

$answerformat = "scalarmult", "anyorder", "fraction", "reducedfraction", "mixednumber", "scinot", "fracordec", "nodecimal", "notrig", "nosoln", "nosolninf", "sameform"

"scalarmult" will accept any answer that is a scalar multiple of the correct answer.
"anyorder" will accept elements in any order, so (2,1) would be treated equivalent to (1,2)
The other options require each component of the answer to be a single fraction (like 10/6), a reduced fraction (like 5/3), a reduced mixed number (like 2_1/2), scientific notation (like 2.3*10^4), a single fraction or decimal, an answer without decimals (also disallows 10^-2 and 3E-2), or an answer without trig functions (sin,cos,tan,sec,csc,cot). Multiple options can be specified like $answerformat="nodecimal,notrig".
$answerformat = "nosoln" or "nosolninf" adds a list radio buttons for "no solutions" and optionally "infinite solutions". $ansprompt can override the default statements like this: $ansprompt = "One value, x=;No values;Many values"

$scoremethod = "byelement"

By default, the whole n-tuple must be correct to receive any credit. Set $scoremethod = "byelement" to give partial credit if only some elements of the n-tuple are correct.

$partweights = ".2,.8"

Can be used with $scoremethod = "byelement" to change the value of each part of the ntuple

$reltolerance = a decimal value

Defines the largest relative error that will be accepted. If this is not set, a relative error of .001 (.1%) is used by default.

$abstolerance = a number

Defines the largest absolute error that will be accepted. This will override the use of $reltolerance

$readerlabel = string

A string that will be used as a visually hidden label on the input box for screenreaders.

$answerbox (In Question Text)

Using the variable $answerbox in the Question Text will place the question input drawing tool in that location

$showanswer

The answer to show to students (if option if available). Defaults to the text of the correct answer. Use this to substitute a detailed answer.

$hidetips = true

Hides the question entry tips that display by default. This should only be used when a question type is being used in an unintentional way, or if the question type gives away critical info to the student.

Complex N-Tuple

Complex N-Tuple questions require the student to enter an n-tuple or list of n-tuples of complex numbers. This can be used for coordinate points, vectors, or any other n-tuple of complex numbers. This will require the student to enter each complex number in a+bi form.

Required Variables

$answer = a string containing an n-tuple or list of n-tuples of complex numbers in a+bi form.

Defines the answer n-tuple or list of n-tuples. N-tuples can be any dimension, but must be surrounded by any of: (), [], {}, <>. Examples: $answer = "(1,2+i)", $answer = "<i,3+i,4>,<1+i,5-i,7>", $answer = "(1,2i) or (1+i,3)"

Optional Variables

$displayformat = "point", "pointlist", "vector", "vectorlist", "list", "set", "setlist"

Changes the answer entry tips (does NOT change how the question is graded). For points, entry like (2,3) is specified. For vectors, entry like <2,3> is specified.

$answerformat = "allowjcomplex", "nosoln", "nosolninf"

"allowjcomplex" allows 2+3j instead of 2+3i
$answerformat = "nosoln" or "nosolninf" adds a list radio buttons for "no solutions" and optionally "infinite solutions". $ansprompt can override the default statements like this: $ansprompt = "One value, x=;No values;Many values"

$scoremethod = "byelement"

By default, the whole n-tuple must be correct to receive any credit. Set $scoremethod = "byelement" to give partial credit if only some elements of the n-tuple are correct.

$partweights = ".2,.8"

Can be used with $scoremethod = "byelement" to change the value of each part of the ntuple

$reltolerance = a decimal value

Defines the largest relative error that will be accepted. If this is not set, a relative error of .001 (.1%) is used by default.

$abstolerance = a number

Defines the largest absolute error that will be accepted. This will override the use of $reltolerance

$readerlabel = string

A string that will be used as a visually hidden label on the input box for screenreaders.

$answerbox (In Question Text)

Using the variable $answerbox in the Question Text will place the question input drawing tool in that location

$showanswer

The answer to show to students (if option if available). Defaults to the text of the correct answer. Use this to substitute a detailed answer.

$hidetips = true

Hides the question entry tips that display by default. This should only be used when a question type is being used in an unintentional way, or if the question type gives away critical info to the student.

Calculated Complex N-Tuple

Calculated Complex N-Tuple questions require the student to enter an n-tuple or list of n-tuples of complex numbers. This can be used for coordinate points, vectors, or any other n-tuple of complex numbers. This is identical the the Complex N-tuple answer type, but allows students to enter mathematical expressions rather than just numbers, such as (5/3+sqrt(2)i, 2/3+1/4i).

Required Variables

$answer = a string containing an n-tuple or list of n-tuples

Defines the answer n-tuple or list of n-tuples. N-tuples can be any dimension, but must be surrounded by any of: (), [], {}, <>. Examples: $answer = "(1/3+i,2)", $answer = "<2i,3,i>,<1+i,5,7>", $answer = "(1,2i) or (i,3)". Each complex number must be in a+bi format unless $answerformat="sloppycomplex" or "generalcomplex" is used.

Optional Variables

$displayformat = "point", "pointlist", "vector", "vectorlist", "list", "set", "setlist"

Changes the answer entry tips (does NOT change how the question is graded). For points, entry like (2,3) is specified. For vectors, entry like <2,3> is specified.

$answerformat = "sloppycomplex", "generalcomplex", "allowjcomplex", "fraction", "reducedfraction", "mixednumber", "scinot", "fracordec", "nodecimal", "notrig", "nosoln", "nosolninf", "sameform"

Use "sloppycomplex" to allow the student to enter complex numbers in forms other than a+bi (allows (4+sqrt(3)i)/5 for example). Student answer must still only contain one i.
Use "generalcomplex" to allow students to enter complex expressions that may involve calculations, like (e^(3i),4).
"allowjcomplex" allows for use of j instead of i as the imaginary unit.
The other options require each component of the answer to be a single fraction (like 10/6), a reduced fraction (like 5/3), a reduced mixed number (like 2_1/2), scientific notation (like 2.3*10^4), a single fraction or decimal, an answer without decimals (also disallows 10^-2 and 3E-2), or an answer without trig functions (sin,cos,tan,sec,csc,cot). Multiple options can be specified like $answerformat="nodecimal,notrig".
$answerformat = "nosoln" or "nosolninf" adds a list radio buttons for "no solutions" and optionally "infinite solutions". $ansprompt can override the default statements like this: $ansprompt = "One value, x=;No values;Many values"

$scoremethod = "byelement"

By default, the whole n-tuple must be correct to receive any credit. Set $scoremethod = "byelement" to give partial credit if only some elements of the n-tuple are correct.

$partweights = ".2,.8"

Can be used with $scoremethod = "byelement" to change the value of each part of the ntuple

$reltolerance = a decimal value

Defines the largest relative error that will be accepted. If this is not set, a relative error of .001 (.1%) is used by default.

$abstolerance = a number

Defines the largest absolute error that will be accepted. This will override the use of $reltolerance

$readerlabel = string

A string that will be used as a visually hidden label on the input box for screenreaders.

$answerbox (In Question Text)

Using the variable $answerbox in the Question Text will place the question input drawing tool in that location

$showanswer

The answer to show to students (if option if available). Defaults to the text of the correct answer. Use this to substitute a detailed answer.

$hidetips = true

Hides the question entry tips that display by default. This should only be used when a question type is being used in an unintentional way, or if the question type gives away critical info to the student.

Algebraic N-Tuple

Algebraic N-Tuple questions require the student to enter an n-tuple or list of n-tuples of algebraic expressions. This can be used for parameterized points or vectors, or any other n-tuple of algebraic expressions. This is similar to the other N-tuple answer types, but allows students to enter algebraic expressions rather than just numbers, such as (x, x^2, 4-x).

Required Variables

$answer = a string containing an n-tuple or list of n-tuples

Defines the answer n-tuple or list of n-tuples. N-tuples can be any dimension, but must be surrounded by any of: (), [], {}, <>. Examples: $answer = "(x,x^2)", $answer = "<t,4-t,2+3t>,<t,3t,8t>", $answer = "(x,x^2) or (sqrt(x),x)". .

Optional Variables

$displayformat = "point", "pointlist", "vector", "vectorlist", "list", "set", "setlist"

Changes the answer entry tips (does NOT change how the question is graded). For points, entry like (2,3) is specified. For vectors, entry like <2,3> is specified.

$variables = string

A list of all variables in the function (including letters representing constants). Defaults to "x". Can use "f()" to indicate a symbol represents a function.

$domain = "inputmin,inputmax"

Defines the domain on which to compare the given answer and correct answer functions. The same domain applies to all variables. An option third list element "integers" can be given, which limits the domain to integer values. The domain defaults to real numbers from -10 to 10. If using multiple variables, can extend domain to define domain for each variable separately. Example: $variables = "x,y"; $domain = "0,5,20,25"

$answerformat = "generalcomplex", "nosoln", "nosolninf", "sameform"

Use "generalcomplex" to allow students to enter complex functions involving i.
"sameform" requires the student's answer be in the "same form" as the correct answer. This means exactly the same, except for commutation of addition and multiplication, multiplication by 1, implicit multiplication, and extra parentheses. (2x-3)(5-x) would be "sameform" as (-1x+5)(2*x-3), but 2/4x and 1/2x and 0.5x would not be "sameform". Use with caution.
$answerformat = "nosoln" or "nosolninf" adds a list radio buttons for "no solutions" and optionally "infinite solutions". $ansprompt can override the default statements like this: $ansprompt = "One value, x=;No values;Many values"

$requiretimes = a list, like "^,=3,cos,<2"

Adds format checking to the student's answer. The list can include multiple checks, which come in pairs. The first is the symbol to look for. The second describes what is acceptable. See the Function question type for more details. Note the $requiretimes applies to the student's entire answer.

$requiretimeslistpart = a list, in the same format as $requiretimes

Similar to $requiretimes, but this check is applied to each ntuple when the answer is a list of ntuples.

$scoremethod = "byelement"

By default, the whole n-tuple must be correct to receive any credit. Set $scoremethod = "byelement" to give partial credit if only some elements of the n-tuple are correct.

$partweights = ".2,.8"

Can be used with $scoremethod = "byelement" to change the value of each part of the ntuple

$reltolerance = a decimal value

Defines the largest relative error that will be accepted. If this is not set, a relative error of .001 (.1%) is used by default.

$abstolerance = a number

Defines the largest absolute error that will be accepted. This will override the use of $reltolerance

$readerlabel = string

A string that will be used as a visually hidden label on the input box for screenreaders.

$answerbox (In Question Text)

Using the variable $answerbox in the Question Text will place the question input drawing tool in that location

$showanswer

The answer to show to students (if option if available). Defaults to the text of the correct answer. Use this to substitute a detailed answer.

$hidetips = true

Hides the question entry tips that display by default. This should only be used when a question type is being used in an unintentional way, or if the question type gives away critical info to the student.

Complex

Required Variables

$answer = a string containing a complex number or list of complex numbers

Defines the answer. Example: $answer="3+2i"

Optional Variables

$answerformat = "list" or "allowjcomplex"

"list" Specifies that the answer will be a list of complex numbers. "allowjcomplex" allows 2+3j instead of 2+3i

$reltolerance = a decimal value

Defines the largest relative error that will be accepted. If this is not set, a relative error of .001 (.1%) is used by default.

$abstolerance = a number

Defines the largest absolute error that will be accepted. This will override the use of $reltolerance

$readerlabel = string

A string that will be used as a visually hidden label on the input box for screenreaders.

$answerbox (In Question Text)

Using the variable $answerbox in the Question Text will place the question input drawing tool in that location

$showanswer

The answer to show to students (if option if available). Defaults to the text of the correct answer. Use this to substitute a detailed answer.

$hidetips = true

Hides the question entry tips that display by default. This should only be used when a question type is being used in an unintentional way, or if the question type gives away critical info to the student.

Calculated Complex

Required Variables

$answer = a string containing a complex number or list of complex numbers

Defines the answer. Example: $answer="3+2i", $answer="2/3+1/3i". The answer must be given in a + bi format (so 2+3isqrt(2) or 5/2+i/3 will not work) unless $answerformat="sloppycomplex" is used.

Optional Variables

$answerformat = "sloppycomplex", "generalcomplex", "allowjcomplex" "fraction", "reducedfraction", "mixednumber", "scinot", "fracordec", "nodecimal", "notrig", or "sameform"

Use "sloppycomplex" to allow the student to enter complex numbers in forms other than a+bi (allows 2+3isqrt(2) for example). Student answer must still only contain one i.
Use "generalcomplex" to allow students to enter complex expressions that may involve calculations.
"allowjcomplex" allows for use of j instead of i as the imaginary unit.
The other options requires the real and imaginary parts of the answer to be a single fraction (like 10/6), a reduced fraction (like 5/3), a reduced mixed number (like 2_1/2), scientific notation (like 2.3*10^4), a single fraction or decimal, an answer without decimals (also disallows 10^-2 and 3E-2), or an answer without trig functions (sin,cos,tan,sec,csc,cot). Multiple options can be specified like $answerformat="nodecimal,notrig".
$answerformat = "list" specifies that the answer will be a list of complex numbers.
allowplusminus allow use of +- in the answer. Will enable the 'list' option if not already included.
$answerformat = "nosoln" or "nosolninf" adds a list radio buttons for "no solutions" and optionally "infinite solutions". $ansprompt can override the default statements like this: $ansprompt = "One value, x=;No values;Many values"

$reltolerance = a decimal value

Defines the largest relative error that will be accepted. If this is not set, a relative error of .001 (.1%) is used by default.

$abstolerance = a number

Defines the largest absolute error that will be accepted. This will override the use of $reltolerance

$readerlabel = string

A string that will be used as a visually hidden label on the input box for screenreaders.

$answerbox (In Question Text)

Using the variable $answerbox in the Question Text will place the question input drawing tool in that location

$showanswer

The answer to show to students (if option if available). Defaults to the text of the correct answer. Use this to substitute a detailed answer.

$hidetips = true

Hides the question entry tips that display by default. This should only be used when a question type is being used in an unintentional way, or if the question type gives away critical info to the student.

Numerical Matrix

Required Variables

$answer = string describing a matrix of numbers, or calculations leading to numbers

Defines the answer. Example: $answer = "[(1,2,3),(8/2,5,6)]" is a 2x3 matrix with first row: 1,2,3

Optional Variables

$answersize = "rows,cols"

Defines the size of the answer matrix. If this is supplied, the student will be provided with a grid of entry boxes in which to input the matrix. If this is not supplied, they will be required to enter the matrix using the ASCIIMath notation, like "[(1,2,3),(4,5,6)]"

$answerformat = "scalarmult" or "ref" or "rowequiv" or "anyroworder"

If "scalarmult" used, any scalar multiple of the correct matrix will be accepted.
If "ref" is used, any row echelon form matrix that is row equivalent will be accepted.
If "rowequiv" is used, any matrix that is row equivalent will be accepted.
If "anyroworder" is used, any matrix equivalent up to row interchanges will be accepted.

$reltolerance = a decimal value

Defines the largest relative error that will be accepted. If this is not set, a relative error of .001 (.1%) is used by default.

$abstolerance = a number

Defines the largest absolute error that will be accepted. This will override the use of $reltolerance

$scoremethod = "byelement"

By default, the whole matrix must be correct to receive any credit. Set $scoremethod = "byelement" to give partial credit if only some elements of the matrix are correct.

$displayformat = "det" or "inline" or "augmented"

When $answersize is used, by default square brackets are used around the entry array. Set $displayformat = "det" to use vertical bars instead.
Normally matrices with $answersize set are displayed on their own line. Set $displayformat = "inline" to display it inline with text. Note that if the text is in a <p>, you may need to change that to a <div> wrapper for the matrix to stay inline.
Use $displayformat = "augmented" to display the usual augment bar before the last column.

$ansprompt = string

A string that will be displayed in front of the input box. Example: $ansprompt="y="

$answerboxsize = number

Determines the number of characters space provided for entry of an answer. Defaults to 20. Will only be used if $answersize is not supplied.

$readerlabel = string

A string that will be used as a visually hidden label on the input box for screenreaders.

$answerbox (In Question Text)

Using the variable $answerbox in the Question Text will place the question input box in that location

$showanswer

The answer to show to students (if option if available). Defaults to $answer. Use this to substitute a detailed answer.

$hidetips = true

Hides the question entry tips that display by default. This should only be used when a question type is being used in an unintentional way, or if the question type gives away critical info to the student.

Calculated Matrix

Required Variables

$answer = string describing a matrix of numbers, or calculations leading to numbers

Defines the answer. Example: $answer = "[(1,2,3),(8/2,5,6)]" is a 2x3 matrix with first row: 1,2,3

Optional Variables

$answersize = "rows,cols"

Defines the size of the answer matrix. If this is supplied, the student will be provided with a grid of entry boxes in which to input the matrix. If this is not supplied, they will be required to enter the matrix using the ASCIIMath notation, like "[(1,2,3),(4,5,6)]"

$answerformat = "scalarmult","ref","rowequiv","anyroworder",fraction", "reducedfraction", "mixednumber", "scinot", "fracordec", "nodecimal", or "notrig"

Requires the entries of the answer to be a single fraction (like 10/6), a reduced fraction (like 5/3), a reduced mixed number (like 2_1/2), scientific notation (like 2.3*10^4), a single fraction or decimal, an answer without decimals (also disallows 10^-2 and 3E-2), or an answer without trig functions (sin,cos,tan,sec,csc,cot). Multiple options can be specified like $answerformat="nodecimal,notrig".
If "scalarmult" used, any scalar multiple of the correct matrix will be accepted.
If "ref" is used, any row echelon form matrix that is row equivalent will be accepted.
If "rowequiv" is used, any matrix that is row equivalent will be accepted.
If "anyroworder" is used, any matrix equivalent up to row interchanges will be accepted.

$reltolerance = a decimal value

Defines the largest relative error that will be accepted. If this is not set, a relative error of .001 (.1%) is used by default.

$abstolerance = a number

Defines the largest absolute error that will be accepted. This will override the use of $reltolerance

$scoremethod = "byelement"

By default, the whole matrix must be correct to receive any credit. Set $scoremethod = "byelement" to give partial credit if only some elements of the matrix are correct.

$displayformat = "det" or "inline" or "augmented"

When $answersize is used, by default square brackets are used around the entry array. Set $displayformat = "det" to use vertical bars instead.
Normally matrices with $answersize set are displayed on their own line. Set $displayformat = "inline" to display it inline with text. Note that if the text is in a <p>, you `may need to change that to a <div> wrapper for the matrix to stay inline.
Use $displayformat = "augmented" to display the usual augment bar before the last column.

$ansprompt = string

A string that will be displayed in front of the input box. Example: $ansprompt="y="

$answerboxsize = number

Determines the number of characters space provided for entry of an answer. Defaults to 20. Will only be used if $answersize is not supplied.

$hidepreview = true

Hides the Preview button. Could be useful in multipart questions, but generally not recommended

$readerlabel = string

A string that will be used as a visually hidden label on the input box for screenreaders.

$answerbox (In Question Text)

Using the variable $answerbox in the Question Text will place the question input box in that location

$showanswer

The answer to show to students (if option if available). Defaults to $answer. Use this to substitute a detailed answer.

$previewloc (In Question Text)

Where you want the preview button to be located. Defaults to after the entry box if not placed in question text.

$hidetips = true

Hides the question entry tips that display by default. This should only be used when a question type is being used in an unintentional way, or if the question type gives away critical info to the student.

Complex Numerical Matrix

Required Variables

$answer = string describing a matrix of complex numbers

Defines the answer. Example: $answer = "[(1+i,2,3i),(8,5+i,6)]" is a 2x3 matrix with first row: 1+i,2,3i

Optional Variables

$answersize = "rows,cols"

Defines the size of the answer matrix. If this is supplied, the student will be provided with a grid of entry boxes in which to input the matrix. If this is not supplied, they will be required to enter the matrix using the ASCIIMath notation, like "[(1+i,2,3i),(8,5+i,6)]" or using the equation editor palette.

$answerformat = "nosoln", "nosolninf"

$answerformat = "nosoln" or "nosolninf" adds a list radio buttons for "no solutions" and optionally "infinite solutions". $ansprompt can override the default statements like this: $ansprompt = "One value, x=;No values;Many values"

$reltolerance = a decimal value

Defines the largest relative error that will be accepted. If this is not set, a relative error of .001 (.1%) is used by default.

$abstolerance = a number

Defines the largest absolute error that will be accepted. This will override the use of $reltolerance

$scoremethod = "byelement"

By default, the whole matrix must be correct to receive any credit. Set $scoremethod = "byelement" to give partial credit if only some elements of the matrix are correct.

$displayformat = "det" or "inline" or "augmented"

When $answersize is used, by default square brackets are used around the entry array. Set $displayformat = "det" to use vertical bars instead.
Normally matrices with $answersize set are displayed on their own line. Set $displayformat = "inline" to display it inline with text.
Use $displayformat = "augmented" to display the usual augment bar before the last column.

$ansprompt = string

A string that will be displayed in front of the input box. Example: $ansprompt="y="

$answerboxsize = number

Determines the number of characters space provided for entry of an answer. Defaults to 20. Will only be used if $answersize is not supplied.

$readerlabel = string

A string that will be used as a visually hidden label on the input box for screenreaders.

$answerbox (In Question Text)

Using the variable $answerbox in the Question Text will place the question input box in that location

$showanswer

The answer to show to students (if option if available). Defaults to $answer. Use this to substitute a detailed answer.

$hidetips = true

Hides the question entry tips that display by default. This should only be used when a question type is being used in an unintentional way, or if the question type gives away critical info to the student.

Calculated Complex Matrix

Required Variables

$answer = string describing a matrix of complex numbers, or calculations leading to numbers

Defines the answer. Example: $answer = "[(1+i,2,3i),(3/2+i,3sqrt(2)i,6)]" is a 2x3 matrix with first row: 1+i,2,3i

Optional Variables

$answersize = "rows,cols"

Defines the size of the answer matrix. If this is supplied, the student will be provided with a grid of entry boxes in which to input the matrix. If this is not supplied, they will be required to enter the matrix using the ASCIIMath notation, like "[(1+i,2,3i),(3/2+i,3sqrt(2)i,6)]" or use the equation editor palette

$answerformat = "sloppycomplex", "generalcomplex", "allowjcomplex", "fraction", "reducedfraction", "mixednumber", "scinot", "fracordec", "nodecimal", or "notrig", "nosoln","nosolninf"

Use "sloppycomplex" to allow the student to enter complex numbers in forms other than a+bi (allows (4+sqrt(3)i)/5 for example). Student answer must still only contain one i.
Use "generalcomplex" to allow students to enter complex expressions that may involve calculations, like e^(3i).
"allowjcomplex" allows for use of j instead of i as the imaginary unit.
The other options require each of the coefficients of the entries of the answer to be a single fraction (like 10/6), a reduced fraction (like 5/3), a reduced mixed number (like 2_1/2), scientific notation (like 2.3*10^4), a single fraction or decimal, an answer without decimals (also disallows 10^-2 and 3E-2), or an answer without trig functions (sin,cos,tan,sec,csc,cot). Multiple options can be specified like $answerformat="nodecimal,notrig".
$answerformat = "nosoln" or "nosolninf" adds a list radio buttons for "no solutions" and optionally "infinite solutions". $ansprompt can override the default statements like this: $ansprompt = "One value, x=;No values;Many values"

$reltolerance = a decimal value

Defines the largest relative error that will be accepted. If this is not set, a relative error of .001 (.1%) is used by default.

$abstolerance = a number

Defines the largest absolute error that will be accepted. This will override the use of $reltolerance

$scoremethod = "byelement"

By default, the whole matrix must be correct to receive any credit. Set $scoremethod = "byelement" to give partial credit if only some elements of the matrix are correct.

$displayformat = "det" or "inline" or "augmented"

When $answersize is used, by default square brackets are used around the entry array. Set $displayformat = "det" to use vertical bars instead.
Normally matrices with $answersize set are displayed on their own line. Set $displayformat = "inline" to display it inline with text.
Use $displayformat = "augmented" to display the usual augment bar before the last column.

$ansprompt = string

A string that will be displayed in front of the input box. Example: $ansprompt="y="

$answerboxsize = number

Determines the number of characters space provided for entry of an answer. Defaults to 20. Will only be used if $answersize is not supplied.

$hidepreview = true

Hides the Preview button. Could be useful in multipart questions, but generally not recommended

$readerlabel = string

A string that will be used as a visually hidden label on the input box for screenreaders.

$answerbox (In Question Text)

Using the variable $answerbox in the Question Text will place the question input box in that location

$showanswer

The answer to show to students (if option if available). Defaults to $answer. Use this to substitute a detailed answer.

$previewloc (In Question Text)

Where you want the preview button to be located. Defaults to after the entry box if not placed in question text.

$hidetips = true

Hides the question entry tips that display by default. This should only be used when a question type is being used in an unintentional way, or if the question type gives away critical info to the student.

Algebraic Matrix

Required Variables

$answer = string describing a matrix of algebraic expressions

Defines the answer. Example: $answer = "[(x,x^2,3),(4,5+x,2)]" is a 2x3 matrix with first row: x,x^2,3

Optional Variables

$answersize = "rows,cols"

Defines the size of the answer matrix. If this is supplied, the student will be provided with a grid of entry boxes in which to input the matrix. If this is not supplied, they will be required to enter the matrix using the ASCIIMath notation, like "[(x,x^2,3),(4,5+x,2)]" or use the equation editor palette

$variables = string

A list of all variables in the function (including letters representing constants). Defaults to "x". Can use "f()" to indicate a symbol represents a function.

$domain = "inputmin,inputmax"

Defines the domain on which to compare the given answer and correct answer functions. The same domain applies to all variables. An option third list element "integers" can be given, which limits the domain to integer values. The domain defaults to real numbers from -10 to 10. If using multiple variables, can extend domain to define domain for each variable separately. Example: $variables = "x,y"; $domain = "0,5,20,25"

$answerformat = "generalcomplex", "nosoln", "nosolninf", "sameform"

Use "generalcomplex" to allow students to enter complex functions involving i.
"sameform" requires the student's answer be in the "same form" as the correct answer. This means exactly the same, except for commutation of addition and multiplication, multiplication by 1, implicit multiplication, and extra parentheses. (2x-3)(5-x) would be "sameform" as (-1x+5)(2*x-3), but 2/4x and 1/2x and 0.5x would not be "sameform". Use with caution.
$answerformat = "nosoln" or "nosolninf" adds a list radio buttons for "no solutions" and optionally "infinite solutions". $ansprompt can override the default statements like this: $ansprompt = "One value, x=;No values;Many values"

$reltolerance = a decimal value

Defines the largest relative error that will be accepted. If this is not set, a relative error of .001 (.1%) is used by default.

$abstolerance = a number

Defines the largest absolute error that will be accepted. This will override the use of $reltolerance

$scoremethod = "byelement"

By default, the whole matrix must be correct to receive any credit. Set $scoremethod = "byelement" to give partial credit if only some elements of the matrix are correct.

$displayformat = "det" or "inline" or "augmented"

When $answersize is used, by default square brackets are used around the entry array. Set $displayformat = "det" to use vertical bars instead.
Normally matrices with $answersize set are displayed on their own line. Set $displayformat = "inline" to display it inline with text.
Use $displayformat = "augmented" to display the usual augment bar before the last column.

$ansprompt = string

A string that will be displayed in front of the input box. Example: $ansprompt="y="

$answerboxsize = number

Determines the number of characters space provided for entry of an answer. Defaults to 20. Will only be used if $answersize is not supplied.

$hidepreview = true

Hides the Preview button. Could be useful in multipart questions, but generally not recommended

$readerlabel = string

A string that will be used as a visually hidden label on the input box for screenreaders.

$answerbox (In Question Text)

Using the variable $answerbox in the Question Text will place the question input box in that location

$showanswer

The answer to show to students (if option if available). Defaults to $answer. Use this to substitute a detailed answer.

$previewloc (In Question Text)

Where you want the preview button to be located. Defaults to after the entry box if not placed in question text.

$hidetips = true

Hides the question entry tips that display by default. This should only be used when a question type is being used in an unintentional way, or if the question type gives away critical info to the student.

Interval

A student is asked to enter an interval notation answer. Example: (2,5]U(7,oo)

Required Variables

$answer = a string with the answer in interval notation

Defines the answer. Join multiple intervals with U for union. Example: $answer = "(-oo,4]U(3,oo)". Use DNE for empty set. Multiple acceptable answers can be entered using "or". Example: $answer = "(3,3) or [3,3]"

Optional Variables

$reltolerance = a decimal value

Defines the largest relative error that will be accepted. If this is not set, a relative error of .001 (.1%) is used by default.

$abstolerance = a number

Defines the largest absolute error that will be accepted. This will override the use of $reltolerance

$reqdecimals = a number

Defines the decimal accuracy required (ie 2 for two decimal places). This will put a message in the answer tips stating the decimals required. If neither $abstolerance or $reltolerance is set, this will set the tolerance, otherwise the provided tolerance will be used (even if it doesn't agree with the $reqdecimal setting).

$answerformat = "normalcurve" or "list" or "allowsloppyintervals"

"normalcurve" Changes the question to use a "shade the area under the normal curve" widget. Define $answer using the open interval that should be shaded. Note that the shading tool only allows selection of z-values to 1 decimal place.
"list" will accept a list of comma-separated intervals like $answer="[2,3),(5,7)"
"allowsloppyintervals" will accept unsimplified unions, so will count [2,5)U(3,7) as equivalent to [2,7)

$scoremethod = "partialcredit"

By default, interval answers will be marked all right or all wrong. Setting $scoremethod = "partialcredit" will changing the scoring mode to give partial credit. (new assessment system only).

$ansprompt = string

A string that will be displayed in front of the input box. Example: $ansprompt="`x in`"

$answerboxsize = number

Determines the number of characters space provided for entry of an answer. Defaults to 20.

$readerlabel = string

A string that will be used as a visually hidden label on the input box for screenreaders.

$answerbox (In Question Text)

Using the variable $answerbox in the Question Text will place the entry box in that location

$showanswer

The answer to show to students (if option if available). Defaults to the text of the correct answer. Use this to substitute a detailed answer.

$hidetips = true

Hides the question entry tips that display by default. This should only be used when a question type is being used in an unintentional way, or if the question type gives away critical info to the student.

Calculated Interval

A student is asked to enter an interval notation answer. Example: (2,5]U(7,oo). Values can be entered as calculations rather than numbers, like [2/5,sqrt(8)]. Can use $answerformat="inequality" to require the student to use inequalities rather than interval notation.

Required Variables

$answer = a string with the answer in interval notation

Defines the answer. Join multiple intervals with U for union, and oo for infinity. Example: $answer = "(-oo,4]U(9/2,oo)". Use DNE for empty set. Multiple acceptable answers can be entered using "or". Example: $answer = "(3,3) or [3,3]".

Optional Variables

$answerformat = "fraction", "reducedfraction", "mixednumber", "scinot", "fracordec", "nodecimal", "notrig", "list", "allowsloppyintervals", or "inequality"

Requires the each value in the answer to be a single fraction (like 10/6), a reduced fraction (like 5/3), a reduced mixed number (like 2_1/2), scientific notation (like 2.3*10^4), a single fraction or decimal, an answer without decimals (also disallows 10^-2 and 3E-2), or an answer without trig functions (sin,cos,tan,sec,csc,cot). Multiple options can be specified like $answerformat="nodecimal,notrig".
$answerformat = "inequality" will require the student to enter an inequality rather than an interval. The instructor answer must still be given in interval notation (it will be reformatted to an inequality automatically for the Show Answer). Use $variables="y" to change the variable of the inequality.
"list" will accept a list of comma-separated intervals like $answer="[2,3),(5,7)". Does not work with "inequality".
"allowsloppyintervals" will accept unsimplified unions, so will count [2,5)U(3,7) as equivalent to [2,7)

$reltolerance = a decimal value

Defines the largest relative error that will be accepted. If this is not set, a relative error of .001 (.1%) is used by default.

$abstolerance = a number

Defines the largest absolute error that will be accepted. This will override the use of $reltolerance

$reqdecimals = a number

Defines the decimal accuracy required (ie 2 for two decimal places). This will put a message in the answer tips stating the decimals required. If neither $abstolerance or $reltolerance is set, this will set the tolerance, otherwise the provided tolerance will be used (even if it doesn't agree with the $reqdecimal setting).

$scoremethod = "partialcredit"

By default, interval answers will be marked all right or all wrong. Setting $scoremethod = "partialcredit" will changing the scoring mode to give partial credit. Note that answers not meeting $answerformat requirements will have deductions in addition to correctness checks. (new assessment system only).

$ansprompt = string

A string that will be displayed in front of the input box. Example: $ansprompt="`x in`"

$answerboxsize = number

Determines the number of characters space provided for entry of an answer. Defaults to 20.

$readerlabel = string

A string that will be used as a visually hidden label on the input box for screenreaders.

$answerbox (In Question Text)

Using the variable $answerbox in the Question Text will place the entry box in that location

$showanswer

The answer to show to students (if option if available). Defaults to the text of the correct answer. Use this to substitute a detailed answer.

$previewloc (In Question Text)

Where you want the preview button to be located. Defaults to after the entry box if not placed in question text.

$hidetips = true

Hides the question entry tips that display by default. This should only be used when a question type is being used in an unintentional way, or if the question type gives away critical info to the student.

Chemical Equation

A student is asked to enter a chemical formula, or use $answerformat="reaction" to ask for a reaction equation.

Required Variables

$answer = a string with the answer

Defines the answer, like "H_2O". Spaces are ignored. For reactions, use -> for a right arrow, and <-> for an equilibrium arrow, like "2H+O->H_2O".

Optional Variables

$answerformat = "reaction"

Use "reaction" if you're asking for a reaction equation.

$variables = a list of atoms

Define this to populate the equation editor with the specified atoms.

$answerboxsize = number

Determines the number of characters space provided for entry of an answer. Defaults to 20.

$readerlabel = string

A string that will be used as a visually hidden label on the input box for screenreaders.

$answerbox (In Question Text)

Using the variable $answerbox in the Question Text will place the entry box in that location

$showanswer

The answer to show to students (if option if available). Defaults to the text of the correct answer. Use this to substitute a detailed answer.

Chemical Molecule Drawing

A student is asked to enter a sketch a molecule, using the Kekule drawing tool. If the student has enabled the keyboard-based drawing accessibility option, they will be presented with a textbox for them to write out a description instead.

Required Variables

$answer = "SMILES~~~CML"

Defines the answer, which includes the SMILES representation of the molecule, as well as the CML representation used for displaying the answer key. Use our answer generator to draw the answer and generate the $answer string. You can specify multiple acceptable answers separated by or, like "SMILES~~~CML or SMILES~~~CML"

Optional Variables

$displayformat (In Common Control)

Set to "condensed" to display the atom labels on the drawing.

$answerbox (In Question Text)

Using the variable $answerbox in the Question Text will place the entry box in that location

$showanswer

The answer to show to students (if option if available). Defaults to a drawing of the correct answer. Use this to substitute a detailed answer.

File Upload

A student is asked to upload a file. The file upload type is not automatically graded.

Required Variables

None - the file upload type is not computer graded.

Optional Variables

$scoremethod = "takeanything" or "takeanythingorblank"

Sets the problem to give full credit for any answer. The latter also counts blank answers as correct.

$answerformat = "images", "canpreview", or a list of file extensions

Set a list of preferred file formats for the file selector. "images" is a shorthand for .jpg,.gif,.png,.jpeg. "canpreview" is a shorthand for image files, office files, and pdfs, which can be previewed inline. If listing file extensions, provide a comma separated list with leading periods, like ".pdf,.docx,.doc"

$readerlabel = string

A string that will be used as a visually hidden label on the input box for screenreaders.

$answerbox (In Question Text)

Using the variable $answerbox in the Question Text will place the file upload box in that location

$showanswer

The answer to show to students (if option if available).

$hidetips = true

Hides the question entry tips that display by default. This should only be used when a question type is being used in an unintentional way, or if the question type gives away critical info to the student.

Multipart

This type of question can contain multiple parts, where each part is one of the previous question types.

Required Variables

$anstypes = an array or list of answer types

Defines the answer type for each part. Example: $anstypes = array("number","number","choices")
Refer to this list for the short names of each question type:

• Number: "number"
• Calculated: "calculated"
• Multiple Choice: "choices"
• Multiple Answer: "multans"
• Matching: "matching"
• Function/expression: "numfunc"
• Drawing: "draw"
• N-tuple: "ntuple"
• Calculated N-tuple: "calcntuple"
• Complex N-tuple: "complexntuple"
• Calculated Complex N-tuple: "calccomplexntuple"
• Algebraic N-tuple: "algntuple"
• Matrix: "matrix"
• Calculated Matrix: "calcmatrix"
• Complex Matrix: "complexmatrix"
• Calculated Complex Matrix: "calccomplexmatrix"
• Algebraic Matrix: "algmatrix"
• Complex: "complex"
• Calculated Complex: "calccomplex"
• Interval: "interval"
• Calculated Interval: "calcinterval"
• Chemical Equation: "chemeqn"
• Chemical Molecule Drawing: "molecule"
• Essay: "essay"
• File Upload: "file"
• String: "string"

Question part variables

For each question part, you will need to define the variables (like $answer, $questions, etc.) you would normally need to define. However, you will need to suffix the variable with a part designator. For example, based on $anstypes above, the first answer is a number. Instead of $answer = 5, enter $answer[0] = 5. This designates that this answer belongs to the first element of $anstypes. Likewise, to set the variables for the "numfunc" type, you'd set $variables[5] = "x". Note that if you do not index the variable, it will apply to all parts. See $defaults below for more info and other options.

$answerbox[partnum] (In Question Text)

The array $answerbox will contain the entry boxes for each answer type. In the question text, you will need to position these boxes within the question. For example: "Enter a number: $answerbox[0]. Now a function: $answerbox[1]". Alternatively, you can use [AB#]: "Enter a number: [AB0]. Now a function: [AB1]"

Optional Variables

$answeights = an array or list of weights for each question

By default the points for a problem are divided evenly over the parts. Use this option if you wish to weight parts differently. Example: $answeights = array(.2,.3,.5). Best practice is to use percents, but if other values are used, they will be converted to percents.

$scoremethod = "singlescore" or "allornothing"

Instead of recording individual scores for each question part, these will cause a single score to be recorded for the question. "singlescore" totals the individual part scores, while "allornothing" will only give full credit or no credit. If you need to specify per-part indexed scoremethod values as well, you can define this as the array value $scoremethod['whole'] instead.

Question part options

You can define any optional variable for each question part. Like above, suffix the variable with the part designator.

$defaults

To set an optional variable to the same value for every question part, you can simply specify it without index, like $reqdecimals=1, and it will apply to all parts. But if you do this, you can't set an indexed value for one one/some parts. If you want to change the default value for most parts but have a different value for some, set $defaults['variable'] = value, like $defaults['answerboxsize'] = 5, and that will change the default value for that variable, and you can still override that default for specific parts, like $answerboxsize[2]=3. Be aware that using $defaults will generally apply the variable for ALL parts, which may cause some unexpected behavior. Note that defaults for abstolerance or reltolerance will not be applied to Drawing question parts, since those variables have special meaning in that context.

$showanswer

You can either define $showanswer for individual question parts (ie, $showanswer[1]="`x^2`"), or you can set one $showanswer, which will be the only answer shown for the problem (ie, $showanswer = "x=$answer[0], y=$answer[1]")

$showanswerloc (In Question Text)

Optionally, you can use $showanswerloc to place a single $showanswer "Show Answer" button, or $showanswerloc[part] to place "Show Answer" buttons for each part. You can also use short tags of the form [SAB] or [SABn] (like [SAB2]). Note that if you use this to place one Show Answer button, you must place all of them, or else the remainder will not show. Use $showanswerstyle = 'inline' to allow Show Answer to be placed inline with text rather than on its own line.

[SAB#] (In Detailed Solution)

To include the generated "show answer" values in the detailed solution, you can use short tags like [SAB2]. Note that this will place the "show answer" directly, not wrapped in a button like in question text.

Scaffolding

Scaffolded questions, also know as Sequential Multipart questions, allow you to break a question up into chunks, where the second chunk only shows after the first chunk is correctly answered or the student runs out of tries. This allows you to use the answer to the first chunk in the second without "giving away" the answer, and allows a student who gets stuck on the first chunk to move on to the rest of the question.

Note: scaffolding is only available in the new assessment interface. If you are using the old interface, the question will behave like a regular multipart question.

Scaffolded questions are an extension of Multipart questions. To turn a multipart question into a scaffolded question, just add an isolated line with three or more slashes in the Question Text where you want the chunks broken apart.

An example: (in the Question Text)

To simplify $a(x+$b) + $c, first we need to distribute:

$a(x+$b) = $answerbox[0]

///

Next, combine like terms:

$a x + $ab + $c = $answerbox[1]

Conditional

Required Variables

$anstypes = an array or list of answer types

Defines the answer type for each part. Example: $anstypes = "number,number". See the Multipart help above for the list of short names

$answer = any of these:

• A boolean (true/false) expression: Something that evaluates to true or false.
  Example: $answer = ($a>3)
  Example: $answer = comparefunctions($f,'x^2') && ($a!=0)
• A single numerical value in the interval [0,1]: will award that percentage of the total possible points.
• array('function',$a,$b): Will compare the functions $a and $b and mark the question correct if they are equivalent. Can set $variables, $reltolerance, $abstolerance, and $domain as needed, like with Function type questions
• array('number',$a,$b): Will compare the numbers or numerical expressions $a and $b and mark the question correct if they are equivalent. Can set $reltolerance or $abstolerance as needed, like with Number/Calculated type questions
• Multiple comparisons: You can mix the two types above by creating an array of comparisons. All must be true for the question to be marked correct.
  Example: $answer = array($a>3, array('function',$b,c), array('number',evalfunc($b,$a),5))

Question part variables

For each question part, you will need to define the variables (like $questions, etc.) you would normally need to define, except you should not define an $answer. However, you will need to suffix the variable with a part designator. For example, based on $anstypes above, the first answer is a number. Instead of $displayformat = "select", enter $displayformat[0] = "select". This designates that this setting belongs to the first element of $anstypes.

$answerbox[partnum] (In Question Text)

The array $answerbox will contain the entry boxes for each answer type. In the question text, you will need to position these boxes within the question. For example: "Enter a number: $answerbox[0]. Now a function: $answerbox[5]"

Optional Variables

Question part options

You can define any optional variable for each question part. Like above, suffix the variable with the part designator. Note that $variables, $domain, $reltolerance, and $abstolerance may be used for the comparison, and should not be set for individual parts.

$showanswer

By default the $showanswer for conditional types is "Answers may vary". Set $showanswer to override this.

Scaffolding

While not as simple as scaffolding multipart questions, you can add scaffolding to a Conditional question. As with multipart, put an isolated line with three slashes in the question text to indicate where the breaks occur. Then you will need to set $seqPartDone[pn] to true for each part index once that part should be considered completed. The scaffolding will move onto the next chunk when all parts in the previous chunk have $seqPartDone set to true.

Changing Your User Profile

To modify your user profile, click the "Change User Info" link in the top right corner.

Your profile allows you correct errors in your name, update your email address, and change your password. You can also upload a picture of yourself or an avatar that your instructor and other students will see with your forum posts and messages.

You can also adjust settings for whether or not to show a list of new messages and forum posts on the home page.

Enrolling in a Course

At your home page, click the "Enroll in a New Class" button to sign up for a new course. You'll need to enter the Course ID number and Enrollment Key in the box provided. If you do not know these, ask your instructor.

Entering Math

For some types of questions, you need to enter a mathematical expression. The system follows order of operations, so use grouping symbols as much as necessary.

Many times, you can click a yellow arrow that displays next to the answer box when you click in it, which will open up the MathQuill equation editor, which you can use to help enter your answers.

Alternatively, you can enter your answer using calculator-style notation. Here is some help on how to enter expressions: