## About writing of mathematical papers [closed]

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Is not it better to use a mathematical language for writing mathematical papers. For example, use the logic of mathematical symbols more tnan additional comment. Is it feasible?

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Do you want your papers to be read by humans or by robots? – ayanta Jan 17 at 15:17

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I'm not sure this question is a good fit for MO. As a general rule, I think that if one can explain underlying concepts without resorting to a lot of symbolism, then one should do so. Think of a pleasant discussion with a mathematician on a hike up a mountain, without benefit of pencil and paper, just talking. After all, we are humans, not computers. – Todd Trimble Jan 17 at 15:21

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The $\Rightarrow$ symbol does not mean the same as "then", "so", "hence" or "therefore". It means that the thing on the right is a consequence of the thing on the left. It does not carry the vital point which is that you believe both statements are true. – James Cranch Jan 17 at 15:44

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I would use $\exists$ if I were writing in some setting where the expression using the symbol is being viewed as a mathematical object in its own right, as in logic. Otherwise I would avoid it in favor of "There exists". – Adam Epstein Jan 17 at 15:46

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It is in fact the opposite. You should favor a clear explanation in words over symbols. Use symbols only when it's not possible or too complicated to express what you want to say precisely enough in words. – Deane Yang Jan 17 at 15:59
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## 1 Answer

The answer to your question is "No".

In Halmos's "How to write mathematics" (which you can find by googling), he refers to using symbols rather than words as "writing in code". It might make the writer's task easier but that is irrelevant, because it makes the reader's life considerably harder.

Halmos's article is a very good guide.

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