17. Creating Equations

Here comes the Maths!

If you are studying or working in a scientific, technical or numerical field, equations will be a core part of your report. Well presented, you will ensure a professional standard of report writing; but poorly presented equations will make for a poor impression of your work, and therefore yourself. This is the vital role played by equations and their presentation as part of a report.

Ohm's law is one of the most fundamental principles or electricity, and the very short equation should not represent a challenge. However, the majorities of reports will feature the equation as follows:

While the equation is correct, it is poorly presented. The star symbol (*) should never be used as an alternative for the multiplication sign. Furthermore, it is best practice to define the variable of the equations, namely the symbols and the quantity they represent. Furthermore, the units to be used should be specified. 

This is why I have been recommending the following format to my students and employees. Under the equation, each variable is presented, first with its symbol as per the equation, then a description of the quantity, and finally the actual units used. This is also supplemented by the addition of an equation number, which will not only allow to cross-reference the equation in the text, but also to incorporate it as part of the table of equations.

And this is the best, most complete and most professional way to present any equation as part of a report. The equation is clearly presented and associated with its equation number, each variable is introduced, and the units specified.