Mathematical question

  • Updated on May 23, 2026
  • Published on Sep 7, 2021
  • 1 minute(s) read
  • Aiden Molavi
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The Mathematical question item type accepts answers in the form of formulas, expressions, equations, vectors, matrices, and other mathematical objects. It is powered by the SOWISO integration. Use this article to understand what it can do and how to enable it.

Mathematical question items are auto-scored.

Add-on, contact Cirrus first

The Mathematical question type is an add-on. Contact your Cirrus representative for commercial details before it can be enabled on your tenant.

Mathematical (SOWISO) question editor in Cirrus

What you can ask

SOWISO items support a wide range of mathematical answer formats:

  • Decimal numbers, including ranges of accepted values.
  • Complex numbers.
  • Expressions and formulas using variables, constants (e, i, π) and subscripts.
  • Sum and product calculations.
  • Comparisons, inequalities, and odds.
  • Trigonometric functions.
  • Systems of linear equations.
  • Mathematical logic.
  • Algebra: vectors and matrices.
  • Intervals.
  • Latin and Greek characters.
  • Lists and collections.
  • Limits.
  • Differential and integral calculus.

Each item can have random parameters, so every candidate sees a slightly different version. Items can also carry targeted feedback that markers and candidates see.

Differences from SOWISO standalone

Cirrus uses the SOWISO open exercise type. Other SOWISO exercise types do not import cleanly:

  • Drawing-based answers are not supported.
  • SOWISO's advanced table layouts do not translate one-to-one into the Cirrus editor. When importing finished SOWISO items, keep the layout simple.
  • Inside Cirrus, the decimal delimiter is always a dot, regardless of regional settings.

Formative versus summative behaviour

The behaviour differs by purpose:

  • Formative: items are available when you create an assessment of type Formative. Candidates can receive step-by-step feedback during the exam.
  • Summative: items are available for Summative assessments. Candidates see a single attempt with the configured feedback level.

Enabling and authoring

To start using the Mathematical question item:

  1. Contact your Cirrus representative to enable the SOWISO add-on commercially.
  2. Once enabled, the item type appears in the + Add menu in your collections.
  3. SOWISO can train you, help develop questions, or supply pre-built content. Items authored in SOWISO can also be imported into Cirrus.

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