Open Source for Maths Diagrams

In summary, the conversation discusses the need for open source programs to create publication quality diagrams for school math notes. Suggestions include GeoGebra, PsTricks, Tikz, Visio, and Graphviz, with examples provided for each.
  • #1
qspeechc
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Hi everyone.

I'm working on getting together some notes on school maths and of course I'd like to include some diagrams. The usual stuff, graphs of things like parabolas, circle geometry, etc. But I'm also skint. So I'm looking for some open source programs that can do that, and they need to be publication quality diagrams. I know about Sage, but I don't know Python and don't have the time to learn Python and Sage. I'm looking for a program that can do stuff like the following:
http://www.mathillustrations.com/
http://geometryexpressions.com/
But those programs are seriously expensive.

Any suggestions? Thanks.
 
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  • #2
You might want to take a look at GeoGebra; I seem to remember it can do that sort of stuff. Mostly geometry diagramming, but it can do graphing.
 
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  • #3
Grapher on macs does a good job of graphing, but needs a little more work for geometry pictures. Have you tried

https://www.desmos.com/calculator

If you are willing to put forth a little more work with Latex (if you know and use it now, at least) the PsTricks collection of packages is capable of making some stunning graphics of all types - look at some of the items here

http://tug.org/PSTricks/main.cgi?file=examples

Tikz can also be used with latex, and is itself very capable. (If you don't use Latex - these probably aren't the tools for you.)
 
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  • #4
Thanks guys. GeoGebra looks interesting. And I do use Latex, but I'm not planning on using it for this, because I find it too difficult to arrange images the way I like, and generally too difficult to edit the way I want it. I use LibreOffice, which is much easier. By the wasy, the link for PsTricks isn't working.

Any other suggestions are still welcome :D
 
  • #5
"The link for PsTricks isn't working"

When I click on it I am taken to a page that has this at the top: "Welcome to the PSTricks web site"

 
  • #6
Quite a learning curve, but I've yet to discover a nicer way of making graphs/diagrams than in Latex with Tikz.
 
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  • #7
The link still isn't working for me. No big deal, I just did an internet search. GeoGebra, PsTricks and Trikz look very interesting. I might have to consider using Latex instead. Thanks everyone.
 
  • #8
For diagrams, visio can be programmed fairly easily, but it's not free.

For graphs, check Graphviz. It is based on DOT. Both are open source. Here is an example of code and the result: http://www.graphviz.org/Gallery/directed/cluster.html

Another example (click on the picture to see the Graphviz code): http://www.graphviz.org/content/unix
 
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1. What is meant by "Open Source for Maths Diagrams"?

"Open Source for Maths Diagrams" refers to the use of open source software to create and edit mathematical diagrams. This means that the source code for the software is freely available for anyone to use, modify, and distribute.

2. How is open source software beneficial for creating maths diagrams?

Open source software allows for more flexibility and customization in creating maths diagrams. It also encourages collaboration and innovation as anyone can contribute to the development of the software.

3. What are some examples of open source software for maths diagrams?

Some examples of open source software for maths diagrams include GeoGebra, SageMath, and Inkscape. These software are free to use and have a wide range of features for creating mathematical diagrams.

4. Do I need to have coding experience to use open source software for maths diagrams?

No, most open source software for maths diagrams have user-friendly interfaces and do not require coding experience. However, having some basic coding knowledge can be helpful in customizing and extending the functionalities of the software.

5. Can I use open source software for maths diagrams for commercial purposes?

Yes, most open source software for maths diagrams have licenses that allow for commercial use. However, it is important to check the specific license of the software you are using to ensure that you are complying with its terms and conditions.

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