Pandoc · Troubleshooting

Pandoc to Word: why your equations aren’t editable (7 fixes)

Published Dec 14, 2025 · 6 · Updated Jan 05, 2026

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If you convert Markdown/LaTeX to DOCX with Pandoc and equations disappear or become plain text, here’s a practical troubleshooting checklist.

Quick tip Convert LaTeX (or AI-generated math) into native, editable Word equations (OMML).
LaTeX → OMML converter

7 practical fixes

  1. Use consistent delimiters ($...$, $$...$$).
  2. Avoid heavy macros or expand them.
  3. Test with a minimal sample file.
  4. Prioritize an OMML-friendly pipeline if you need editable equations.
  5. For long docs, convert the whole document rather than copy/paste.
  6. Validate on a second machine.
  7. For submissions: DOCX + native editable equations.

When Pandoc won’t give reliable OMML

Export to .txt/.docx with LaTeX and convert with Equations to Word.

Related


Quick tip: If you are pasting many formulas (for example, a long AI answer), the most reliable approach is converting the full document into native Word equations (OMML) so you can edit it without formatting issues.

Why Pandoc math becomes non-editable

Pandoc can produce a DOCX that looks correct, but math may end up as images, embedded objects, or non-native content depending on the template and the way LaTeX is written. Macros, custom packages, and mixed delimiters are common sources of inconsistent output.

Tip: For a complete workflow, see the LaTeX → OMML guide.

Step-by-step checklist (fast)

  1. Reduce the document to a minimal sample with 3–5 representative equations.
  2. Use consistent delimiters and avoid custom macros where possible.
  3. Check if equations are editable: click an equation in Word; if you cannot edit it, it is not native OMML.
  4. If you must deliver editable equations, convert LaTeX to native Word equations (OMML) using the converter.

FAQ

How do I know if an equation is OMML?

In Word, click the equation. If the equation editor opens and you can edit individual components, it is a native equation object (OMML).

Does Pandoc support OMML perfectly?

It can in some cases, but reliability varies. For consistent editable equations, an OMML-focused step is typically safer.

Need to convert a .docx or .txt containing LaTeX? Use the converter and download a Word file with native editable OMML equations. LaTeX → OMML Converter More articles