There are several excellent software tools for laying out and formatting mathematical formulas, catering to different levels of complexity and ease of use. Here are some of the most widely used ones:

1. LaTeX

• Best for: Academics, researchers, and professionals.
• Description: LaTeX is a high-quality typesetting system widely used for creating documents that involve complex mathematical formulas. It’s especially powerful for scientific papers, theses, and books.
• Features:
  • Precision control over formatting.
  • Capable of handling complex mathematical notations.
  • Extensive library of symbols and formatting options.
• Tools to use: Overleaf (online LaTeX editor), TeXShop (Mac), MiKTeX (Windows), TeXworks (cross-platform).
• Learning curve: Steep but very powerful.

2. Microsoft Word (with Equation Editor)

• Best for: General users and students.
• Description: Microsoft Word has an integrated Equation Editor, allowing users to easily insert and format mathematical equations.
• Features:
  • User-friendly interface.
  • Suitable for basic and moderately complex formulas.
  • Equation editor supports LaTeX-like syntax.
• Learning curve: Easy.

3. MathType

• Best for: Professionals who need to integrate formulas in various software.
• Description: MathType is a powerful tool for creating mathematical equations that can be used in documents, presentations, and web pages.
• Features:
  • Easy-to-use graphical interface.
  • Works with Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, Google Docs, and many other programs.
  • Supports LaTeX and MathML.
• Learning curve: Moderate.

4. LyX

• Best for: LaTeX users who want a graphical interface.
• Description: LyX is a document processor that combines the power of LaTeX with a user-friendly graphical interface, making it easier to create complex documents with formulas.
• Features:
  • Easy insertion and formatting of mathematical formulas.
  • WYSIWYG interface with LaTeX-quality output.
• Learning curve: Moderate.

5. Google Docs (with Equation Editor)

• Best for: Collaborative work and simple to moderate formulas.
• Description: Google Docs has a built-in equation editor, making it easy to insert basic formulas into documents.
• Features:
  • Real-time collaboration.
  • Easy to use for basic formulas.
  • Supports LaTeX-like input.
• Learning curve: Easy.

6. Wolfram Mathematica

• Best for: Advanced mathematical computing and symbolic calculations.
• Description: Mathematica is a comprehensive software tool used for symbolic mathematics, computations, and visualizations.
• Features:
  • Can solve, manipulate, and visualize mathematical equations and expressions.
  • Ideal for research and advanced math.
• Learning curve: Steep but highly capable.

7. Maple

• Best for: Advanced users looking for symbolic and numerical computing capabilities.
• Description: Maple is a software tool for solving complex mathematical problems and generating professional-looking formulas.
• Features:
  • Extensive library for algebraic operations.
  • Ideal for professionals in engineering and research.
• Learning curve: Moderate to steep.

8. Desmos (Online Graphing Calculator)

• Best for: Interactive graphing and algebra.
• Description: Desmos is a free online graphing calculator that allows users to plot equations and explore algebraic concepts visually.
• Features:
  • Interactive graphing tool.
  • Good for students and educators.
  • Simple algebraic and trigonometric functions.
• Learning curve: Easy.

9. Geogebra

• Best for: Visual learners and those exploring geometry, algebra, and calculus.
• Description: Geogebra is an interactive software that allows you to visualize and manipulate algebraic and geometric concepts.
• Features:
  • Combines geometry, algebra, and calculus into a single platform.
  • Interactive and intuitive.
• Learning curve: Easy to moderate.

10. KaTeX

• Best for: Rendering mathematical formulas on the web.
• Description: KaTeX is a fast, web-based tool for displaying mathematical formulas on web pages.
• Features:
  • Extremely fast and lightweight.
  • Integrates well with web development platforms.
  • Supports LaTeX-style input.
• Learning curve: Moderate (for web developers).

These tools range from simple editors for general use to more powerful software for professionals handling complex mathematical expressions. Your choice will depend on the complexity of your formulas, your platform (desktop, web), and your need for collaboration.