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matlab-use-symbolic-math

Generate MATLAB code for symbolic computation, equation solving, and analytical mathematics.

995|122|Updated Apr 3, 2026
Search Tags:#calculus#differential equations#matlab#symbolic math#equation solving#transfer function#Code generation
One-click install
npx skills add https://github.com/matlab/matlab-agentic-toolkit --skill matlab-use-symbolic-math
Or copy as Structured Prompt for Agent▼
Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: matlab-use-symbolic-math
Source: https://github.com/matlab/matlab-agentic-toolkit/tree/main/skills-catalog/math-and-optimization/matlab-use-symbolic-math
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/matlab/matlab-agentic-toolkit --skill matlab-use-symbolic-math

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

💡 This Skill includes references (resource) components.

What problem does it solve?

Writing correct Symbolic Math Toolbox code is error-prone: deprecated string-based syntax, persistent assumptions, misused subs calls, and invalid function targets cause subtle bugs. This Skill provides verified syntax rules, workflow patterns, and common-mistake fixes so generated MATLAB symbolic code works correctly the first time.

Core Features & Use Cases

  • Symbolic Computation Patterns: Correct usage of syms/sym, solve, dsolve, diff, int, laplace, and assumption management with assume/assumeAlso.
  • Conversion Pipelines: Convert symbolic results to numeric functions via matlabFunction, to C code via codegen, to transfer functions for Control System Toolbox, and to PDE coefficients via pdeCoefficients.
  • Specialized References: Ten reference files covering control systems, ODE solving, plotting (fplot/fsurf), symmatrix atomic matrices, symunit physical units, and rewrite/combine expression targets.
  • Use Case: Derive a transfer function from a mass-spring-damper ODE symbolically, convert it with sym2poly, and pass it to tf for a Bode plot — all with correct syntax and zero deprecated calls.

Quick Start

Ask the agent to symbolically solve a differential equation or derive a transfer function, and it will apply these Symbolic Math Toolbox patterns to generate correct MATLAB code.

Frequently Asked Questions about matlab-use-symbolic-math

High-intent search queries and answers about installing and using this skill.

FAQPage Schema
How do I solve equations symbolically in MATLAB?▼

Use `syms x` to declare symbolic variables, then `solve(x^2 - 5*x + 6 == 0, x)` with `==` for equations. Never pass strings like `solve('x^2=1')` — string-based syntax is deprecated and errors in current releases.

How do I convert a symbolic expression to a MATLAB function?▼

Use `matlabFunction(expr, 'Vars', [x y])` to create a function handle. Call `symvar(expr)` first to find all free symbols, since every free variable must appear in `'Vars'` or be substituted with `subs` beforehand.

Why does my MATLAB symbolic code give wrong results after clearing variables?▼

Assumptions persist in the symbolic engine even after `clear`. Reset them by recreating the variable with `syms x`, calling `assume(x, 'clear')`, or using `reset(symengine)` to clear everything.

Can I derive a transfer function from a differential equation in MATLAB?▼

Yes. Define the ODE symbolically, apply `laplace`, substitute zero initial conditions, solve for Y(s)/U(s), then convert with `sym2poly` before passing to `tf` or `ss` from Control System Toolbox.

When should I use symmatrix instead of sym for matrices?▼

Use `symmatrix('A', [n n])` for textbook-style atomic matrix algebra like `inv(A)*b` or `det(A)`. Use element-wise `sym` matrices when you need `eig`, `svd`, element access, or numeric substitution.

Why does matlabFunction fail on piecewise expressions?▼

Anonymous function handles cannot contain if-else branching, so piecewise expressions require file output: `matlabFunction(expr, 'File', 'myFunc', 'Vars', {...})`. Alternatively, evaluate directly with `subs` and `double`.

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