Therefore in LaTeX (\therefore)

Where it is used

Three dots in a triangle, read therefore, introducing a conclusion.

\therefore is common in school mathematics and informal derivations: x + 2 = 5, \therefore x = 3. Formal papers usually prefer words like hence or the implication arrow \implies. It is set as a relation, so spacing is automatic between expressions. The upside-down version, \because, means because. In text, it must still be in math mode, for example $\therefore$, unless you load a text symbol alternative. Because its meaning is clear to most readers, it works well in slides and worked solutions where space is tight.

Minimal compilable example

Paste this into an empty .tex file and compile it with pdfLaTeX, XeLaTeX or LuaLaTeX.

\documentclass{article}
\usepackage{amssymb}
\begin{document}
Therefore: $\therefore$

\[ 2x = 6 \quad \therefore x = 3 \]
\end{document}

Related symbols

• Because\because
• Models\models
• Contradiction (falsum, bottom)\bot
• Proves\vdash
• Tautology (verum, top)\top
• If and Only If\iff

Frequently asked questions

How do I write Therefore in LaTeX?

Type \therefore in math mode, for example $2x = 6 \quad \therefore x = 3$. Load amssymb first with \usepackage{amssymb}.

Which package do I need for \therefore?

\therefore needs amssymb: add \usepackage{amssymb} to your preamble before the document starts.

Can I use \therefore in text mode, or only in math mode?

Only in math mode. Outside $...$ LaTeX stops with "Missing $ inserted", so write $\therefore$ in running text. If you only need the glyph in text, paste the Unicode character ∴ instead (with XeLaTeX or LuaLaTeX and a font that has it).