When does the inequality sign flip?
The inequality sign flips when you multiply or divide both sides by a negative number, and also when you take the reciprocal of both sides (if both sides have the same sign). For example, -2x > 6 becomes x < -3 after dividing both sides by -2 (the > flips to <). AskSia handles this automatically and labels the step explicitly so you can see when and why the flip occurred. The sign flip is the most common place students lose points on inequality problems, and AskSia catches it every time.
How does AskSia solve quadratic inequalities?
AskSia uses the test-point method. First, solve the corresponding equation (set the quadratic equal to zero) to find the roots, which are the critical points. These roots split the number line into intervals (typically three: less than the smaller root, between the roots, greater than the larger root). AskSia tests one point from each interval by plugging into the original inequality. The intervals where the inequality holds are the solution set. The roots are included (closed circles) for ≤ or ≥, excluded (open circles) for < or >.
How does AskSia solve absolute-value inequalities?
AskSia rewrites the absolute-value inequality as a compound inequality based on the direction. |X| < a becomes the compound -a < X < a (an AND case, where both bounds must hold). |X| > a becomes X < -a OR X > a (an OR case, where either holds). For mixed forms like |X| ≤ a, the same rules apply with ≤ instead of <. AskSia then solves each piece of the compound inequality and combines them correctly. The final solution is graphed on a number line with the right open/closed circles.
What's the difference between interval notation and set-builder notation?
Interval notation writes the solution as a range with brackets: [2, 5] means 2 ≤ x ≤ 5, while (2, 5) means 2 < x < 5. Brackets are inclusive (filled circle on number line), parentheses are exclusive (open circle). Multiple intervals are joined with ∪ (union). Set-builder notation describes the solution as a set: {x : x ≥ 2} or {x : -3 < x ≤ 5}. AskSia returns the solution in both forms on every solve, so you can match whichever your textbook or assignment requires.
How accurate is AskSia?
AskSia hits 98% accuracy on standard high school and college coursework, measurably higher than ChatGPT, Photomath, and Symbolab on the same problem sets. Accuracy comes from subject-specialized models, a symbolic verification pass that catches arithmetic errors, and a self-check step that re-derives the answer before showing it to you.
Can I get practice problems and flashcards?
Yes. After any solve, ask Sia to generate similar practice problems at SAT, ACT, AP, IB, or college difficulty, or build a flashcard set on the underlying concept in one tap. Useful for exam prep and spaced repetition before a quiz, midterm, or final.
How much does AskSia cost?
AskSia has a free plan that includes daily solves across all subjects. AskSia Pro and Super include unlimited solves, advanced subjects, the full AI tutor companion, exports, and priority response speed. See pricing for details.