---
title: Image to LaTeX
description: How to convert any formula image into clean LaTeX code with TexPixel
slug: image-to-latex
date: 2026-03-25
tags: [LaTeX, tutorial]
order: 2
---

# Image to LaTeX

TexPixel's core feature is converting formula images — from photos, scans, or screenshots — directly into LaTeX code you can paste anywhere.

## How It Works

1. **Upload your image** — Drag and drop a JPG or PNG into the upload zone, or click to browse. You can also paste from your clipboard.
2. **AI processes it** — Our model detects the formula region, runs OCR, and generates structured LaTeX in under a second.
3. **Copy the result** — Click the copy button next to the LaTeX output. Paste directly into Overleaf, VS Code, Word, or any LaTeX editor.

## Input Requirements

| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| File formats | JPG, PNG |
| Max file size | 10 MB |
| Recommended DPI | 150 DPI or higher |
| Background | White or light backgrounds work best |

## What Gets Recognized

TexPixel handles a wide range of mathematical content:

- **Algebra** — equations, inequalities, polynomials
- **Calculus** — derivatives, integrals, limits
- **Matrices** — 2×2 up to large arrays
- **Greek letters** — α, β, γ, Σ, Π, and more
- **Subscripts and superscripts** — `x_i^2`, `a_{n+1}`
- **Fractions** — `\frac{a}{b}`, nested fractions
- **Square roots and radicals** — `\sqrt{x}`, `\sqrt[n]{x}`

## Example

Uploading an image of the quadratic formula gives you:

```latex
x = \frac{-b \pm \sqrt{b^2 - 4ac}}{2a}
```

An image of an integral:

```latex
\int_0^\infty e^{-x^2}\, dx = \frac{\sqrt{\pi}}{2}
```

## Tips for Best Results

- **Use clear images** — avoid blur, shadows, or low contrast
- **Crop tightly** — the less background, the better the focus
- **Dark ink on white paper** — ideal for handwritten formulas
- **Avoid rotated images** — keep the formula horizontal
- **One formula per image** — for complex multi-part work, crop each formula separately

## Limitations

- Extremely faint or pencil-written formulas may have lower accuracy
- Hand-drawn arrows or annotation marks outside the formula may be ignored
- Very large matrices (10×10+) may have reduced accuracy

## Copy Options

After recognition, you can copy output in multiple formats:

- **LaTeX** — raw LaTeX string
- **MathML** — for web embedding
- **Markdown** — `$...$` inline or `$$...$$` block
- **Plain text** — Unicode approximation

---

**Further reading:** [From Whiteboard to LaTeX in 3 Seconds: A Student's Workflow →](/blog/student-workflow)

Ready to try it? [Upload a formula image now →](/app)