Photomath

Scan a maths problem with your camera and see worked steps

AI Education & LearningFree planOverseasβ˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜† 4.0

What is Photomath?

Photomath lets you point a phone camera at a printed or handwritten maths problem and returns the answer with step-by-step working. Recognition covers arithmetic, fractions, algebra, equations, functions, trigonometry, calculus and parts of statistics and geometry, and each step can be expanded for an explanation. It is owned by Google, and its solver is rule-based rather than a generative model, which makes results more predictable but limits it to problem types it supports. Alternative solution methods appear where they exist. It is a checking and learning aid, and the working deserves as much scrutiny as the answer.

Last updated: 2026-09-20. This site only provides an index; for exact features, pricing, and licensing, see the official website.

Key features

  • Camera recognition of printed and handwritten maths problems
  • Step-by-step solutions with expandable explanations
  • Alternative solution methods for the same problem
  • Coverage of algebra, trigonometry, calculus and statistics
  • Handwriting keyboard for entering expressions manually
  • Saved history plus concept tutorials and explanations

Pros & cons

Strengths

  • Fast way to check a result and see the method
  • Step explanations can unstick a struggling student
  • Handles handwriting better than many competing apps

Watch out for

  • Recognition errors are possible on unclear writing
  • Word problems and proofs are poorly supported
  • Detailed steps and explanations sit behind the paid tier

Best for & use cases

checking homework, understanding worked steps, exam revision and self-study

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FAQ

Are the answers always right?

Not always. Recognition can misread handwriting or symbols, and solutions are only as good as the problem the app thinks it saw. Compare the scanned expression with your original before trusting the result.

Should I use it for homework?

Using it to check work or understand a method is normal. Using it to produce answers you do not understand will show up in tests. Many schools set their own rules, so check them first.

Does it explain why, or just how?

Steps show how the result was reached, and expanding a step gives more detail. Conceptual reasoning behind a method is better served by a textbook or a teacher than by the app.