Mathematica Guide

Mathematica is a powerful global computing environment. Ideal for use in engineering, mathematics, finance, physics, chemistry, biology, and a wide range of other fields, it makes possible a new level of automation in algorithmic computation, interactive manipulation, and dynamic presentation--as well as a whole new way of interacting with the world of data.

What is Mathematica?

Mathematica is a powerful global computing environment. Ideal for use in engineering, mathematics, finance, physics, chemistry, biology, and a wide range of other fields, it makes possible a new level of automation in algorithmic computation, interactive manipulation, and dynamic presentation -- as well as a whole new way of interacting with the world of data. 

Installing Mathematica

Mathematica is currently installed on all public Windows (PC) labs (see Software Available on Public Computers).

Mathematica is also available for installation as follows:

• FACULTY/STAFF -- college-owned machines installer
• FACULTY/STAFF -- personally-owned machines installer
• STUDENTS -- personally-owned machines installer (can install a local license on a laptop or desktop machine)

1. Click the appropriate link above for the installation type you need, then click Create one to set up a Wolfram ID.
2. Supply the requested details, using your Middlebury email (format username@middlebury.edu) then click Create WolframID.
3. Complete the Wolfram Activation Key Request Form then click Submit.
4. Check your email and verify your address as requested.  You will then receive a separate message containing your activation key and a link to Wolfram's User Portal.
5. Click the appropriate download link.  the installer then enter your Activation Key.

Are you interested in installing Mathematica elsewhere? Please submit a Helpdesk ticket with your request details.

Middlebury also has access to Wolfram Products: https://www.wolfram.com/siteinfo/?source=frontpage-site-license

What is Mathematica used for in a university setting?

Mathematica has a tremendous amount of uses, including...

• lecture presentations, writing journal articles, and preparing student lab reports
• individual student projects
• research and writing

See Wolfram's Screencast and Video Gallery for usage ideas and examples.

What are the best steps to start using Mathematica?

If you are new to Mathematica, here are some suggestions on the best ways to get started.

Students

1. Watch the "Hands-On Start to Mathematica" tutorial screencast.
2. Explore the Learning Center for topics relevant to your interests.
3. Launch Mathematica, open the Classroom Assistant, and perform your first few computations.
4. You're now ready for the projects that faculty will assign.

Faculty

1. Watch the "Overview of Mathematica for Education" video.
2. Explore the Learning Center for topics relevant to your interests.
3. Find some prebuilt examples and courseware from the Demonstrations Project, MathWorld, and the Library Archive.
4. Assign the above steps in the student section to your classes as homework.
5. Sign up for the Faculty Program.
6. Take other webinars relevant to your work.