# How math formulas work

Since math is simply the science of order, the [language](language.md) of math is simply the language of order.

- Unfortunately, there are many [symbols](math-symbols.md) to represent MANY parts of this order, and learning all of it can be overwhelming.
- However, piece-by-piece each symbol is easy to understand.

Unfortunately, the concept is very dense for most non-mathematical minds.

- People typically dive into a subject, but that subject is cumulatively built on many other subjects, and one "simplified" video tutorial can lead to 5 Wikipedia pages and 3 other videos just to even conceptualize the concept.

## Complexity

In the same way that language can be made infinitely complex, math can be made infinitely complex.

- It is entirely possible to convert "1=1" into an abominable puzzle of many calculated steps. Some math majors intentionally submit term papers in this way.
- Like with [writing well](language-writing.md), a mathematician's best formulas should be expressed as simply as possible.
  - Unfortunately, most mathematicians are [technical idiots](https://gainedin.site/idiot/), so it's not likely to change anytime soon.

## Functions

A function is essentially when one input is matched to one output.

- e.g., if the function of x becomes x plus 3, then it becomes f(x)=x+3.
- This can be confusing for learners because f(x) and y are often interchangeable for the purposes of expressing it.