Mathematical procedures often require manipulating expressions and presenting the final answer in a conventional format. For example, simplifying (3 + 2i) + (1 – i) results in 4 + i, which is the complex number expressed in its conventional format with the real component first and the imaginary component second. Similarly, the quadratic equation, after solving, might yield solutions like 2 and -2, but expressing them as 2 provides a concise and recognizable presentation.
Presenting answers in a consistent manner allows for easier comparison, verification, and further calculations. Standardized formats in mathematics have evolved over centuries to enhance clarity and communication. The adoption of symbolic notation and agreed-upon presentation conventions greatly accelerated the development of mathematics. This rigor allows for unambiguous interpretation and avoids potential confusion arising from varied representations.
