Symbols are a concise way of giving lengthy instructions related to numbers and logic.

Symbols are a communication tool. Symbols are used to eliminate the need to write long, plain language instructions to describe calculations and other processes.

For example, a single symbol stands for the entire process for addition. The familiar plus sign eliminates the need for a long written explanation of what addition means and how to accomplish it.

The same symbols are used worldwide . . .

The symbols used in mathematics are universal.

The same math symbols are used throughout the civilized world. In most cases each symbol gives the same clear, precise meaning to every reader, regardless of the language they speak.

The most valuable, most frequently used Symbols in mathematics . . .

The most important, most frequently used Grouping symbols are listed below.

Grouping Symbols (delimiters) - click description

Return To
"Top of Page"
click here

The Angle Bracket symbols and the Less-Than/Greater-Than inequality symbols have a similar appearance.

A side by side comparison is shown below:

Angle Brackets
Less Than/Greater Than
Inequality Symbols

Angle Brackets (also called "chevrons") are not generally used as grouping symbols (bare delimiters) in mathematics .

They could be . . . but, normally they are only used for very narrow, specialized purposes. These include grouping symbols for commands in html, delimiters identifying a complete e-mail address, symbols used to enclose text, specialized uses in quantum mechanics, etc.

Less Than/Greater Than inequality symbols are often used to represent angle brackets.