LaTeX Left Right Arrow () - Complete Guide

The bidirectional arrow (↔) indicates equivalence or "if and only if" in logic.

Symbol Preview

Left Right Arrow

LaTeX Code

No package required

Recommended
\leftrightarrow

Bidirectional arrow

No package required

\iff

If and only if (shorter)

What is the LaTeX Left Right Arrow?

The bidirectional arrow (↔) is used in mathematics to denote "if and only if" relationships, showing that two statements are logically equivalent.

How to Use Left Right Arrow in LaTeX

Method 1: Using \leftrightarrow

No package required

Bidirectional arrow

Example: Using \leftrightarrow

latex
\documentclass{article}

\begin{document}

% Using the Left Right Arrow
Text with \leftrightarrow

\end{document}

Method 2: Using \iff

No package required

If and only if (shorter)

Example: Using \iff

latex
\documentclass{article}

\begin{document}

% Using the Left Right Arrow
Text with \iff

\end{document}

Common Use Cases

The Left Right Arrow symbol is commonly used in the following contexts:

Logical Equivalence

If and only if relationship.

Code

$P \leftrightarrow Q$

Output

P ↔ Q

Complete Examples

Equivalence

Logical equivalence

latex
\documentclass{article}
\begin{document}

Two conditions are equivalent:
$$x = 5 \leftrightarrow x^2 = 25 \text{ (for positive x)}$$

\end{document}

Frequently Asked Questions

Which method should I use?

We recommend using the method marked as "Recommended" above. However, the best method depends on your specific needs:

  • \leftrightarrow: Bidirectional arrow
  • \iff: If and only if (shorter)

Where do I use this symbol?

This symbol can be used:

  • In mathematical equations (math mode)
  • In regular text (if using text mode)
  • In various document environments

Can I use this in display mode?

Yes, symbols that work in math mode (between $ $) also work in display mode (between $$ $$). This allows you to display the symbol on its own line with larger formatting.

🔗 Related Symbols You May Need

View all symbols →

🎯 Need to Convert PDF to LaTeX?

Our free PDF to LaTeX converter preserves all mathematical symbols and formatting.

Fast & accurate

Preserves symbols

Free online

No registration

Try Converter Now →