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MathML Block

By Adam Silverstein

Content Management / Document Management & Downloads

Reviewed by Abdul Hameid

Trusted WordPress expert with 20+ years of experience evaluating plugins for the WP ecosystem.

MathML Block Review - In-Depth Analysis

A MathML block for the WordPress block editor (Gutenberg). It allows integration of mathematical formulas into web pages using MathML.

Performance Overview

WPS Score

7/10

User Rating

3.8/5 (based on 4+ reviews)

Active Installations

1,000+

Update Frequency

Below Average It is calculated using the weighted average of same category plugins.

Security Score

1 / 10 (Very Low Risk) It is calculated using the weighted average of all versions.

What It Does

A MathML block for the WordPress block editor (Gutenberg). It allows users to integrate mathematical formulas into their web pages using Mathematical Markup Language (MathML).

MathML is an application of XML designed for describing mathematical notations and capturing both its structure and content. This block uses MathJax to render MathML formulas in the editor and on the front end of a website.

To test a MathML block and enter a formula, type the formula into a block of text, select it, and use the 'M' icon in the control bar. For example, you can input formulas like x = {-b ± √(b²-4ac) / 2a}.

This plugin requires PHP 5.6+ and WordPress 5.0+. Development takes place on the GitHub repository, and contributions are welcome.

Comparing to Alternatives

MathML Block is one of several plugins that enable math formula rendering in WordPress, with several well-known alternatives available.

Top alternatives

Strengths

Clean and simple visual output
Easy to use with LaTeX syntax familiarity
Regular updates addressing bugs
No known security vulnerabilities
Lightweight codebase

Weaknesses

Loads MathJax JavaScript files globally, impacting site performance
Lacks user-friendly syntax documentation
Limited support for non-developers
No premium version with enhanced features

User Sentiment Analysis

With a modest number of ratings, the plugin has a generally positive reception but some users express concerns about documentation and performance.

Positive highlights

'Top ! The best way I have found to write math formulas on the web.' — Martouf
'Excellent plugin, worked well for 2 years with timely updates.' — javcardenas
'Very clean visually and simple to use.' — spartan9802

Common complaints

Lack of accessible syntax documentation for non-developers

Weaknesses

Documentation is developer-focused and not user-friendly
Performance issues due to loading scripts site-wide

Who Should Use This?

Best for

Users comfortable with LaTeX syntax and developers looking for a simple, clean math rendering plugin without extra frills.

Not ideal for

Non-technical users seeking comprehensive documentation or those concerned about site performance due to global script loading.

Pricing & Value

Free version includes

The free version offers basic math formula rendering with LaTeX syntax support and visual simplicity.

Final Verdict

MathML Block provides a straightforward and visually clean solution for embedding math formulas in WordPress, especially for users familiar with LaTeX. Its lack of security issues and regular updates are positive aspects. However, the plugin's global loading of MathJax scripts can negatively affect site performance, and the absence of user-friendly documentation limits accessibility for non-developers.

While there are several alternative plugins with potentially better performance optimizations or documentation, MathML Block remains a viable choice for those prioritizing simplicity and visual clarity without premium features. Prospective users should weigh these factors against their technical comfort and site needs.