Question

Generally speaking if i write
√x + 2 + 3y + xy = 4z would you assume i mean
√(x) + 2 + 3y + xy = 4z ??? or would you assume the √ is over the entire left side

Answer 1

I would ask you, but probably assume just the x under the root otherwise...

Answer 2

exactly... usually if a person wanted it over the whole left side they would extend the square root.... im just trying 2 figure out what is proper and what isnt, cause some people on here have 2 make it so difficult to understand

Answer 3

I would assume that the root is over the whole side unless otherwise stated

Answer 4

well without any parentheses or the symbol drawn completely it really is not clear, so whoever asks the question has to contend with that

Answer 5

true

Answer 6

thats where I was unclear

Answer 7

I agree with TuringTest

Answer 8

like I would look at the problem and say "which way makes more sense?"
but in this case they seem about the same
maybe if I knew the question I could make a better call

Answer 9

ye usually i prefer parenthesis on formulas just 2 make things clear

Answer 10

@Goten77 I think you must be referring to a question where you were trying to help and the asker got "upset" because you didn't understand their notation.

I believe the asker was in the wrong there and should have instead politely clarified exactly what they meant in their question by either drawing it or by using parenthesis.

Answer 11

ye i kinda was mad , since he assumed i had no idea what i was doing

Answer 12

I was very impressed by the way in which you stayed calm in that situation - it shows good character - keep up the good work my friend! :)