Math symbol reference

Expected Value E

Represents the probability-weighted average of a random variable.

E
UnicodeU+0045
LaTeX\mathbb{E}
HTML entity
HTML decimalE
MathML<mo>E</mo>

Semantic identity and intent

Semantic type

operator

An operator, relation, connective, or notation mark whose meaning depends on its operands and context.

Primary search task

understand the operation or relation, see a valid example, and copy the correct notation

Probability SymbolsStatistics Symbols

MathML token

<mo>

Use E with the operand structure shown in the examples. Preserve grouping, limits, spacing, and evaluation order when converting between formats.

Characters to distinguish

  • P — Probability
  • μ — Population Mean

Use E in the right format

Meaning and usage

Represents the probability-weighted average of a random variable.

Use brackets or parentheses around the random variable.

Pronunciation: expected value

Formula examples

\mathbb{E}[X]=\sum_x xP(X=x)

How to type Expected Value

Windows
Use Character Map or enter U+0045 in a Unicode-aware app.
macOS
Open Character Viewer with Control–Command–Space and search by name.
Microsoft Word
Type \mathbb{E} in an equation and press Space.
iPhone and iPad
Copy and paste E, or use a math/LaTeX app. The standard iOS keyboard may not expose every mathematical symbol.
Android
Copy and paste E, or use a math keyboard or LaTeX editor. Keyboard layouts vary by device and app.
Google Docs
For plain text, paste E or use Insert → Special characters. For structured math, use the equation editor and verify \mathbb{E}.
Excel
Paste E into a cell or use Insert → Symbol when available. Ordinary cells preserve the character but do not interpret LaTeX commands.

Common mistakes

  • Define E near first use because statistical and probability conventions can distinguish sample, population, estimator, and parameter meanings.
  • For plain text, copy E as U+0045; for structured equations, use \mathbb{E} in math mode. A look-alike glyph or image can break search, accessibility, or parsing when the intended character is Expected Value.

When to use E

  • Use E in plain text when a Unicode character is appropriate and the destination preserves U+0045.
  • Use \mathbb{E} in an equation editor when mathematical spacing or structure matters.
  • Define the local meaning when Expected Value is used in probability, statistics with a field-specific convention.

Look-alikes and related characters

  • P — Probability
  • μ — Population Mean

Font and compatibility notes

Glyph shape can vary by font. Verify the code point after copying, and prefer LaTeX or MathML for structured equations.

Continue the workflow

From Expected Value to a finished equation

  1. Copy the characterUse E in plain text when Unicode is accepted.
  2. Choose a structured formatUse \mathbb{E} for LaTeX or the MathML snippet for accessible web equations.
  3. Edit or convertOpen the value in the editor or converter without retyping it.

Review and source notes

Quality tier: specialist

Last reviewed: 2026-07-23

Review method: Catalog review of character identity and notation mappings.

Verified against: Unicode Standard, Unicode mathematical notation guidance, and established LaTeX/MathML syntax.

Reference sources

Frequently asked questions

What does the Expected Value symbol mean?

Represents the probability-weighted average of a random variable.

What is the LaTeX command for E?

Use \mathbb{E} in a compatible math environment.

Can I copy E as Unicode?

Yes. Use the copy button above to copy the Unicode character directly.

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