Common Sense Media Review
By Amanda Bindel
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Handy algebra helper with X factor; watch for cheating.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 11+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Download
Videos and Photos
MathPapa - Algebra Calculator
Privacy Rating Warning
Privacy Rating
Our expert evaluators create our privacy ratings. The ratings are designed to help you understand how apps use your data for commercial purposes.
Pass
Meets our minimum requirements for privacy and security practices.
Warning
Does not meet our recommendations for privacy and security practices.
Fail
Does not have a privacy policy and should not be used.
Privacy Rating
Our expert evaluators create our privacy ratings. The ratings are designed to help you understand how apps use your data for commercial purposes.
Pass
Meets our minimum requirements for privacy and security practices.
Warning
Does not meet our recommendations for privacy and security practices.
Fail
Does not have a privacy policy and should not be used.
What's It About?
MATHPAPA - ALGEBRA HELPER looks just like a traditional calculator -- with a few extra symbols and letter variables. Kids can enter their own equations and instantly see a step-by-step solution. They can choose between solving by substitution or solving by elimination when appropriate and see solutions graphed. With the monthly subscription, kids get a full algebra class that includes lessons and practice problems. Account creation isn't necessary, so once kids download the app, they're ready to solve problems.
Is It Any Good?
This helpful tool goes from free homework helper to full-featured paid algebra tutor in a handy app, but parents will need to make sure it's being used for learning and not cheating. It's impressive how simply, effectively, and quickly the app can solve algebraic equations entered by users -- for free. In the paid version, which is a monthly subscription, kids get complete algebra lessons -- from the basics to advanced concepts, including graphing examples. No login is required. Just enter the equation and get the step-by-step solution. For kids struggling with algebraic thinking, MathPapa - Algebra Helper could be a great tool to support the instruction they get in school, but adult oversight is best so kids don't just use it as a shortcut to easy answers.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about how to best use homework helpers like MathPapa - Algebra Calculator to enhance learning. At what point in practice is your family OK with checking answers? What are the disadvantages to getting answers via an app?
Discuss real-world applications of algebra. How do you use it in daily life?
App Details
- Devices : iPhone , iPod Touch , iPad , Android
- Subjects : Math : algebra
- Skills : Thinking & Reasoning : part-whole relationships , problem solving , thinking critically , Self-Direction : academic development
- Pricing structure : Free to try (free seven-day trial, then $9.99/mo.; $59.99/year)
- Release date : November 6, 2018
- Genre : Education
- Topics : STEM , School ( High School , Middle School )
- Publisher : MathPapa, Inc.
- Version : 1.3.3
- Minimum software requirements : iOS 8.0 or later; Android 4.4 and up
- Last updated : September 30, 2025
Did we miss something on diversity?
Research shows a connection between kids' healthy self-esteem and positive portrayals in media. That's why we've added a new "Diverse Representations" section to our reviews that will be rolling out on an ongoing basis. You can help us help kids by
Suggest an Update
Common Sense Media's unbiased ratings are created by expert reviewers and aren't influenced by the product's creators or by any of our funders, affiliates, or partners.
See how we rate